All standards
AI LEADERSTRONGLY AI-RELEVANT

ST0482 · Version 1.0

Digital and technology solutions specialist (integrated degree)

Start with the work someone needs to become competent in and the capability they need to develop.

Develops specialists who investigate, identify and implement strategic digital and technology solutions through a chosen technical specialism.

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Important Level 7 funding restriction: For starts from 1 January 2026, government funding for Level 7 apprenticeships is generally limited to people aged 16 to 21, or under 25 with an Education, Health and Care plan and/or qualifying care experience; private funding may remain possible.

Overview

What this apprenticeship develops

Develops specialists who investigate, identify and implement strategic digital and technology solutions through a chosen technical specialism. It is designed around the occupation in the official standard, not simply access to AI tools.

AI LEADER: People responsible for strategy, governance, adoption and organisational change.

Role fit

Who it is designed for

  • Experienced digital professionals in strategic specialist roles
  • People whose work combines technology depth with leadership and change

Where AI genuinely fits

STRONGLY AI-RELEVANT: The occupation can build substantial AI-enabling capability, although AI is not its only purpose.

  • Digital technology leadership
  • Data analytics strategy
  • Enterprise architecture
  • IT strategy and future technology

Learning

What someone will learn and apply

Outcomes

Roles and business value

Recognition

Qualification and professional recognition

Practicalities

Entry and delivery considerations

Funding

Funding and eligibility

£21,000

Maximum funding band

The funding band is the maximum government funding available for eligible training and assessment. The actual funding route and employer contribution depend on the learner, role, employer circumstances and rules in force at the start date.

  • Funding and learner eligibility depend on the rules in force on the apprentice's start date.
  • The apprentice must have an eligible job in England that allows them to develop and demonstrate the standard's occupational competence.
  • Prior learning, residency, employment status, age and employer circumstances can affect eligibility or the amount funded.
  • For starts from 1 January 2026, government funding for Level 7 apprenticeships is generally limited to people aged 16 to 21, or under 25 with an Education, Health and Care plan and/or qualifying care experience; private funding may remain possible.
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Decision check

When another route may fit better

Programme selection

What to investigate in a provider programme

Independent guidance

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Delivery can vary by structure, duration, qualifications, technology access and learner support. We maintain verified provider intelligence privately and use it only to support a needs-led review.

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Evidence

Sources and verification

Last verified
23 September 2026
Official last reviewed
Not published

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