The launch of CIOB’s degree validating partnership with De Montfort University for the new BSc (Hons) Design, Construction and Management Degree Apprenticeship represents a significant step forward in our goal to improve access to higher-level learning and professional development within the construction industry.

The innovative integrated degree programme has been designed by CIOB around the occupational standard produced by Skills England, and supported by employer-led expert groups in response to industry demand. The apprenticeship is aligned with the latest standards, ensuring apprentices gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to succeed in modern construction environments.

Meeting the future needs of the construction Industry

Skills England is the UK Government's executive agency responsible for helping align skills development with the country's economic and workforce needs. Working closely with employers, education providers and industry representatives, it helps ensure training programmes, including apprenticeships, reflect current and future skills requirements. 

The Design, Construction and Management Degree Apprenticeship has been developed through this collaborative approach, ensuring that apprentices graduate with skills that are highly relevant and immediately applicable within the workplace.

The programme reflects the evolving needs of the construction sector and provides a clear pathway for individuals seeking to build long-term careers in construction, project delivery, digital construction and management.

Accessible degree-level learning

What sets the CIOB degree apprenticeship apart is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. Unlike many traditional higher education routes, there are no formal academic entry requirements beyond being employed in an eligible role and meeting the apprenticeship funding requirements.

Typical job roles that may be suitable for the programme include:

• Architectural Assistant
• Architectural Technologist
• BIM Manager
• Construction Design Build Manager
• Construction Manager
• Design Manager
• Digital Engineering Manager
• Information Manager
• Project Manager
• Technical Manager

These roles share responsibility for planning, coordinating, designing, delivering and managing construction projects.

Assessment methods are also delivered through a flexible and supportive approach, recognising diverse learning styles and helping apprentices demonstrate competence in ways that reflect real workplace practice.

Building professional excellence

The programme places professional development at its core. Over the course of the three-year apprenticeship, apprentices will develop knowledge and skills across design management, project delivery, construction technology, digital construction, information management, leadership and commercial awareness.

By integrating academic learning with practical workplace experience, apprentices can immediately apply their learning to real projects. This helps develop confident professionals who can contribute effectively throughout the project lifecycle, from concept and design through to construction and completion.

In addition to technical competence, learners will build the critical thinking, communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills increasingly valued by employers across the industry.

Benefits for employers

For employers, the degree apprenticeship offers a cost-effective and practical solution for attracting, developing and retaining talent. The programme helps organisations address skills shortages while investing in the long-term development of their workforce.

Delivered remotely by CIOB's industry specialists in collaboration with De Montfort University, the apprenticeship allows employees to learn alongside their existing work commitments without the need for regular campus attendance. This means the programme is accessible for employers across the whole of England. 

Employers also benefit from employees applying new knowledge directly within the workplace, creating immediate value for projects and business performance.

Upon successful completion, apprentices will achieve a BSc (Hons) in Design, Construction and Management and MCIOB memberships status, combining the academic credibility of a university degree with the industry expertise and professional standing associated with CIOB.

How to apply

Individuals interested in joining the programme should speak with their employer in the first instance. Employers wishing to enrol existing staff members or recruit new apprentices onto the programme can contact the CIOB Apprenticeships team, who can provide advice on eligibility, funding, enrolment processes and how the apprenticeship can support workforce development objectives.