Why study this course with LJMU?
Choosing to study the Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (DTSP) Degree Course through our apprenticeship scheme offers a unique blend of practical experience and academic learning, tailored to boost your career in the tech industry. As an apprentice, you’ll gain:
- Real-World Work Experience.
- Industry Connections.
- Tailored Learning
- State-of-the-Art Facilities.
- No Tuition Fees.
- Career-Ready Skills.
- Convenient Start Date.
Studying via the apprenticeship route not only enhances your professional development but also ensures you are well-prepared for a thriving career in the ever-evolving technology sector.
About your course
The BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (DTSP) degree apprenticeship at Liverpool John Moores University is designed to meet the needs of industry while integrating academic excellence and practical experience.
Through this apprenticeship, you will develop both the theoretical and practical skills required for a successful career in technology, with a focus on real-world applications. You will:
- Acquire Advanced Skills: Gain expertise in software development, systems architecture, and data analysis, preparing you for diverse roles such as software engineer, data analyst, or business analyst.
- Hands-On Learning: Apply your knowledge in live projects at work and through academic modules informed by cutting-edge research and industry practices.
- Access Industry-Standard Resources: Benefit from our state-of-the-art facilities, including nine specialist computer labs equipped with over 400 high-spec workstations and the latest software tools.
- Achieve Professional Competency: Learn from expert tutors in a supportive environment commended by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), ensuring you build the practical, technical, and analytical skills essential for the modern technology professional.
This apprenticeship empowers you to excel in a rapidly evolving industry, combining the best of academic and professional development to prepare you for a successful, future-proof career in digital and technology solutions.
Why Study the Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship at LJMU?
The School of Computer Science and Mathematics at LJMU is renowned for its research excellence in computing and its extensive industry connections, which directly shape the curriculum of the Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (DTSP) Degree Apprenticeship. The program integrates cutting-edge academic content with practical industry insights, offering you the best of both worlds.
As a degree apprentice, you will spend one day a week on campus at LJMU, benefitting from our state-of-the-art facilities, including nine specialist teaching laboratories equipped with over 400 high-specification workstations, the latest software, and specialized applications. Additionally, our Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is open 24/7, allowing you to study at your convenience and enjoy the same access as full-time degree students.
LJMU’s strong links with international, national, and local organizations—spanning industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and telecommunications—enhance your learning experience. These connections foster guest lectures from industry leaders and provide invaluable opportunities to gain real-world insights. The program’s design allows you to gain practical, technical, and analytical skills while actively contributing to your employer’s business.
This apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with tailored academic support, enabling you to build a robust foundation for a successful career in computing and technology. Whether you aspire to roles in software development, data analytics, or business analytics, this degree apprenticeship prepares you with the tools and experience needed to thrive in your chosen field.
Course modules
What you will study on this degree
What does the programme offer?
The programme is offered as a 4-year programme with a September intake each academic year.
Both apprenticeship and non apprenticeship routes are closely aligned to ensure a cohesive student experience and learning opportunities that are comparable to each other.
The programme is focused and designed to reflect the student’s development as a Digital and Technology Solutions Professional.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Core modules
Introduction to Programming
20 credits
20 credits
In this module you are delivered programming and problem-solving skills with no prior assumptions of programming experience. Given the importance of programming to computer science, this module will encourage you to study more specialised software development topics. You will gain an understanding of how software is developed and become familiar with a range of computer programming paradigms.
Computer Systems
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides you with basic knowledge in relation to the computing platform (hardware, operating systems, networks) upon which applications are developed and hosted. You will need this as support knowledge for subsequent modules at Level 5 and 6.
Networks and Web
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides you with an understanding of modern Internet and web technologies. It will present the technologies underlying computer networking and the applications built on networks. These include interactive Web, development and social media technologies. This module enables you to:
Identify appropriate uses of web client-side technologies Convert user requirements into interactive web pages using modern tools and technologies Identify applications of Network/Internet protocols Describe various features of Computer Networks and the Internet's infrastructure.
Data Modelling
20 credits
20 credits
The module develops your ability to model data in various differing scenarios. You are initially required to manipulate and present data in spreadsheet based applications. Then, you are required to solve problems using a data modelling methodology (e.g. entity relationship models/normalisation), ultimately leading towards the construction of database based applications.
Fundamentals of Information Systems
20 credits
20 credits
This module introduces you to the concepts of information systems. You will examine the various hardware and software components of information systems whilst developing skills in designing and building information systems. Furthermore, you will develop your understanding of the planning and management of information systems whilst exploring their uses and impact.
Problem Solving for Computing
20 credits
20 credits
This module will develop your skills in computational thinking that can be used to develop programs to solve subject specific problems. Practical exercises and problem-solving activities will be related such that they lead to the development of a larger software implementation.
Core modules
Object-Oriented Systems
20 credits
20 credits
In this module you will explore the object oriented paradigm from analysis and design through implementation and testing to maintenance. The UML (Unified Modelling Language) is employed alongside OOP (Object Oriented Programming) to demonstrate key concepts, resulting in mature, fully functioning object oriented systems. You will apply principles and patterns to object oriented systems with test driven development and source control playing a supporting role. The module concludes by exploring the various architectures that object oriented systems may embrace.
Advanced Web Development
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides you with the concepts, methods, techniques and experience to analyse, design and develop media rich interactive multi-tier Web-based applications. You will learn to develop the concepts of multi-tier web application development, including: server-side programming, database connectivity, and media rich client-side interface development. You will also be introduced to wider concepts of web applications such as: legal issues, serve hardware, and system optimisation.
Data Structures and Algorithms
20 credits
20 credits
This module introduces you to the fundamentals of Abstract Data Types (ADTs) and complexity of operations on ADTs followed by an implementation-based exploration of common data structures and operations, their implementations and application. You will be exposed to the development and optimisation of software based on both theoretical and applied evaluations.
Data Analytics
20 credits
20 credits
This module allows you to explore statistical techniques through practical, hands-on data analysis. You will develop a theoretical knowledge of statistical skills to solve data science problems and display solutions to data science problems by applying statistical theory using appropriate software applications.
Database Systems
20 credits
20 credits
In this module you will explore the operation of database systems through a scrutiny of modern RDBMS (Relational Data Base Management Systems), the SQL (Structured Query Language) and database connectivity APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). The module continues by exploring some of the managerial considerations of large-scale RDBMS. The module concludes by exploring the operation of emerging NoSQL (Not Only SQL) database systems. Overall, you will design relational databases, develop date driven applications, critically evaluate applications, and design appropriate non-relational databases.
Information Systems Development
20 credits
20 credits
This module enables you to explore the theories and practical application of systems analysis and design techniques with particular emphasis on object-oriented analysis and design and its role in software development.
Core modules
Endpoint Assessment Project
40 credits
40 credits
This module consolidates the apprentice’s learning and workplace experiences to date. It introduces them to the requirements of the gateway and end point assessment, enabling them to understand the purpose of both in relation to their knowledge, skills and behaviours. It also allows for apprentices to develop further understanding of the importance of the soft skills needed to work effectively in industry and business.
This module presents the apprentice with the opportunity to complete a substantial project in a chosen area relevant to your apprenticeship pathway. The scope of what is an appropriate artefact varies between pathways and you will discuss this with your apprenticeship team. This module will enable you to use rigorous development or scientific methods to produce an artefact, resulting in an oral and written report. They will have the opportunity to evidence their acquired KSBs, identifying and articulating where and how these were achieved in the workplace.
User Experience Design
20 credits
20 credits
The aim of this module is to enhance your technical knowledge of systems development with an appreciation of the social-technical aspects of design. It covers the evolving area of User Experience (UX) design. This involves you using UX methods to design and prototype an interactive system and then validate your design against user requirements using UX evaluation techniques.
Virtualisation and Cloud Computing
20 credits
20 credits
This module enables you to explore often overlooked yet key disciplines in modern computing infrastructure. It serves to impart upon you both a conceptual and practical insight into three key disciplines, namely virtualisation, distributed and cloud computing. It neatly complements two associated modules at NQF6, namely Embedded Systems and Applied Data Science in providing you with a complete coverage of modern computing infrastructure.
Optional Modules
Business Intelligence
20 credits
20 credits
This is a practical module that generates analytical modelling experience, developing hands-on experience of business intelligence applications. You will learn to critically evaluate the technological and statistical options available for solving business problems, and to identify and apply appropriate statistical techniques and machine learning approaches to business problems using a suitable software application.
Advanced Information Systems
20 credits
20 credits
This module provides you with an understanding of the underlying technologies and concepts relating to advanced information systems. Formal theory will be introduced via lectures and practical knowledge will be acquired via practical labs and coursework.
E-Commerce Systems
20 credits
20 credits
This module aims to extend your abilities beyond web development to website "management" by exploring the use of analytics. This is to monitor user interactions with websites to both improve traffic to the site and increase the conversion of such visitors to customers. The module will provide you with the concepts, methods, techniques and practical experience in developing and managing e-commerce websites by using analytical data.
Applied Data Science
20 credits
20 credits
This module works with a growing area of database systems, that of the analytical database. The module begins by enabling you to explore the rapid growth of business intelligence data and the complex data models that are needed to support it. The module continues by exploring the platforms and processes that report such data through both web based and service oriented platforms.
Embedded Systems
20 credits
20 credits
This module broadens a Software Engineer's horizon to include system and software development for embedded systems, with consideration of the Internet of Things. You are required to have considerable high-level programming knowledge by Level 6. This will be expanded to consider working with lower-level architectural concerns and development software for "baremetal" systems.
Your Learning Experience
Excellent facilities and learning resources
Teaching and Work-Based Learning for Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Apprenticeship
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Learning Resources
As a DTSP apprentice at LJMU, you will have access to the same cutting-edge facilities as full-time students. The program blends online and face-to-face teaching to create a flexible and engaging learning environment. Support from your personal tutor is readily available, whether on-campus or via video calls to fit your schedule.
Teaching sessions are held one day per week at the Byrom Street campus, equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories following a £6 million investment. You will have access to:
- High-Performance Computer Labs: Over 150 advanced workstations, including PC/Linux systems and networked multimedia PCs.
- Specialized Computing Facilities: Teaching rooms designed for multimedia presentations and software demonstrations.
- Extensive Digital Resources: Cutting-edge technology and access to online tools that complement your learning.
Work-Based Learning
Your apprenticeship uniquely combines academic learning with hands-on experience through employment with a local organization. Employers provide structured training, including off-the-job learning one day per week in the workplace in addition to the LJMU learning, ensuring you gain valuable industry insights.
This work-based model allows you to apply theoretical knowledge directly to real-world scenarios, developing skills relevant to your role. With your employer’s support, you’ll enhance your understanding of the industry while earning a salary, preparing you for a career in digital and technology solutions.
By combining access to LJMU’s facilities with work-based learning, the DTSP apprenticeship offers a comprehensive path to professional success.
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
Support and Guidance for Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Apprenticeship Students
As a DTSP apprentice, you will be allocated a dedicated personal tutor who will support you in setting personal development goals and help you navigate both academic and work-related challenges. Your tutor will provide guidance on course-related matters and assist you in managing your professional growth.
In addition, you will have access to study skills support to enhance your learning experience, ensuring you are well-prepared for your role as an apprentice.
Throughout the duration of your apprenticeship, the support doesn’t stop at the university level. Your employer will work closely with you to provide training within the workplace. They will also provide a workplace mentor who will track your progress and support you. They will also meet regularly with you and your LJMU personal tutor to support the relationship and your learning. Your personal tutor will maintain regular contact with you to monitor your progress. This ensures that both your academic and work-based learning are aligned, offering a holistic approach to your professional development.
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
You will be assessed by a combination of coursework and exams and a personal independent project. Your tutors will give prompt and constructive feedback via Canvas (our virtual learning environment), face-to-face or as written comments.
Final assessment of the programme
Apprentice learners will be deemed to have completed the programme when they have achieved 360 credits and completed the required End Point Assessment. (EPA) Learners will have completed the End Point Assessment and the Apprenticeship when all requirements of their EPA project have been satisfied.
Endpoint Assessment Project - 40 Credits
This final project gives students the opportunity to apply rigorous development or scientific methods to create an artefact relevant to their apprenticeship pathway and to effectively present their findings through oral and written reports.
Tuition fees and funding
The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees in accordance with any changes to the maximum allowable fees set by the UK Parliament. In the event of such a change, any fee increase will be subject to a maximum cap of 10% of the total course cost as originally stated at the time of your offer.
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- access to programme-appropriate software
- library and student IT support
- free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Fees and Funding
Degree Apprenticeships are funded courses, with learning costs being paid to the university by the employer, through the Degree Apprenticeship levy, if a large company, or with the help of the government’s co-investment model, if a smaller company.
If you aren’t already employed by a company that is willing to sponsor you through an apprenticeship, you’ll need to find one. You can do this by regularly checking the Government’s find an apprenticeship website.
You can also approach an employer yourself to find out whether they would be interested in offering Degree Apprenticeships and ask them to contact us. Our team will be able to explain to them how they can access the correct funding and the next steps.
Information for potential employers
If an employer has a wage bill of over £3 million, it will automatically pay the Government levy and would use this to fund learning via the company Apprenticeship Service Account.
Non-levy companies can access funding via the Government co-investment model, whereby the Government will fund 95% of the learning costs and the company will fund the remaining 5%.
To access the Government funds, non-levy paying employers are required to set up an account on the Apprenticeship Service and reserve funding for apprentices, no earlier than three months before the course start date. Find out more information regarding setting up an apprenticeship service account. LJMU will still invoice non-levy paying companies for their contribution, but without this account LJMU will be unable to draw down the Government co-investment funding for the apprentices.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Grades/points required from qualifications: BCC-BBB (104-120)
Work out how many UCAS points your qualifications are worth by visiting the UCAS Tariff Calculator.
Qualification requirements
GCSEs and equivalents
English and Maths or accepted equivalences listed here
.
A levels
BCC-BBB
Minimum Number of A Levels: 2
Maximum AS UCAS Points: 20
BTECs
Extended Diploma: DMM
Access awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
Pass overall with a minimum of 104 points
International Baccalaureate
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
OCR Cambridge Technical
Extended Diploma: DMM
Irish awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
T levels
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications.
You need to obtain the required UCAS points from a related subject area.
International requirements
IELTS
6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/international-entry-requirements
How to apply
Securing your place at LJMU
To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU Degree Apprenticeship form. You will need to provide details of previous qualifications and a personal statement outlining why you wish to study this programme.
Application
If you aren’t already employed by a company that is willing to sponsor you through an apprenticeship, you’ll need to find one. You can do this by regularly checking the Government’s Find an apprenticeship website.
You can also approach an employer yourself to find out whether they would be interested in offering Degree Apprenticeships and ask them to contact us. Our team will be able to explain to them how they can access the correct funding and the next steps.
Just like any other job application, you’ll go through a recruitment process with the employer. Check out our interview tips to help you prepare for your Degree Apprenticeship interview. You’ll also need to meet the entry requirements to attend Liverpool John Moores University just like any other student. To do this, find your course and make sure you meet the requirements of the particular course associated with your Degree Apprenticeship.
To apply for a Degree Apprenticeship course complete the online application form.
Once you have applied you are required to complete and return a skills scan document that is automatically sent to you upon receipt of your application. The skills scan enables the programme team to carry out an initial assessment of the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) that you have acquired through your previous experience and study.
Following consideration of your skills scan, you and your employer contact will be invited to attend a meeting with the Programme Leader to further discuss the requirements of the apprenticeship, including the KSBs set out within the applicable Apprenticeship Standard.
If your application is successful, you’ll enter into an employment/apprenticeship contract with your employer which will set out the obligations of all parties involved in the apprenticeship.
Your university life
From accommodation and academic support to clubs and societies. Find out what LJMU has to offer.
Related Links
Talk to our students
Connect with a current LJMU student for advice and guidance on university life, courses and more.
See what our students are saying
At LJMU we want you to know you're making the right choice by studying with us. You can see what our students are saying about their experience with us through their reviews on the following websites:
The university reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the university. Where this does happen, the university operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.