Compare Learning Pathways

Academic stages and years, each containing compulsory and elective modules

Employer-designed stages and modules plus mandatory 20% off-the-job training throughout

Integrated academic modules and work-based learning co-designed by XPP University and employers — the degree and apprenticeship standard are delivered as a single programme

Flat structure — exams and study materials organised by the awarding body, not by stages or modules

Standalone courses and workshops; no fixed programme structure — learners pick individual topics as needed

Full-time, part-time, or blended learning on XPP campuses or online

Blended — regular XPP study days combined with day-to-day workplace learning

Part-time blended study (online live sessions, guided self-study, workshops) combined with full-time employment throughout

Blended, online, or classroom — flexible to fit around employment commitments

Classroom, live online, or self-paced e-learning — typically very flexible scheduling

Formal examinations plus coursework, essays, and assignments marked by XPP academics

End Point Assessment (EPA) conducted by an independent assessor at the end of the programme

Dual assessment — module-based academic assessments throughout, plus an EPA at the end; the degree and apprenticeship certificate are awarded simultaneously

Examinations set and marked by the awarding professional body (e.g. ACCA, CFA Institute, CIPD)

No formal examination; some programmes include practical exercises or reflective activities; XPP completion certificate issued

Level 6 (BSc / LLB) or Level 7 (MSc / LLM) on the UK RQF

Level 2 through to Level 7 — Levels 6 and 7 are equivalent to a degree or master's degree

Level 6 (BSc Hons) or Level 7 (Master's) — a full university degree awarded alongside the apprenticeship certificate

Varies by body and qualification; commonly Level 3 to Level 7 on the UK RQF

Not RQF-regulated; CPD hours or points may be recognised by relevant professional bodies

1–3 years depending on level and study mode

1–6 years depending on level and employer programme design

Typically 3–6 years (e.g. 32 months training + 4 months EPA for a Level 6 programme)

Months to several years per qualification level — study pace is largely self-directed

Typically 2–18 hours per course — designed to fit around a working day

Annual tuition fees (eligible for Student Finance England loans for eligible students)

Free to the apprentice — funded in full by the employer's apprenticeship levy or government co-investment

Free to the apprentice — fully funded by the employer's apprenticeship levy or government co-investment; no tuition fees or student loan required

Per-exam or per-level fees, typically self-funded or employer sponsored

Per-course fees; self-funded or employer sponsored; no apprenticeship levy funding available

XPP University, registered with the Office for Students (OfS)

IfATE-approved apprenticeship standard; End Point Assessment by an approved EPA organisation

XPP University (OfS-registered) awards the degree; IfATE-approved standard governs the apprenticeship; EPA conducted by an independent organisation

External professional bodies — ACCA, ICAEW, CFA Institute, CIPD, SRA, and others

Delivered by XPP; individual courses accredited by professional bodies including ACCA, ICAEW, SRA, and ICAS for annual CPD purposes

Undergraduate: A-levels or Level 3 qualifications. Postgraduate: an undergraduate degree

Must be employed in a relevant role; the employer must agree to sponsor the apprenticeship

Must be employed 30+ hours per week in a relevant role; Level 6 typically requires A-levels or Level 3 qualifications; Level 7 typically requires an undergraduate degree

Varies by qualification — some are open entry, others require prior qualifications or work experience

Typically open entry; some courses are aimed at specific experience levels or roles

Learners seeking a full academic university experience and an accredited degree qualification

Employed learners whose employer wants to invest in their professional development through the levy

Employed learners who want a full university degree without tuition fees or student debt, earning a salary throughout — ideal for school leavers or those already in a relevant role

Working professionals targeting a specific industry designation alongside their current role

Qualified professionals who need to meet annual CPD requirements (e.g. ACCA's 40-unit requirement), upskill in a specific area, or explore a subject before committing to a full qualification