Previously my “personal update” posts discussed how I was undertaking an apprenticeship. That was a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Digital and Technology Solutions, with my specialism/pathway focusing on Software Engineering. The apprenticeship expanded my knowledge, gave me confidence and helped introduce me to new ways of researching/investigating technologies.
I successfully achieved my BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions and having my “always learning” mindset I decided I would need a new challenge.
A level 7 adventure awaited
My BSc unlocked an opportunity to keep learning and start a Masters (MSc) in Digital and Technology Specialist. It’s not an add-on, or continuation of the BSc, but a new degree in the same subject. The BSc was a level 6 qualification; the MSc is a level 7 qualification. After playing video games for most of my life, the opportunity to level up and earn a new achievement alongside new skills and knowledge, was very appealing.
This time I did not focus on software engineering and instead decided for the IT / Digital Futures Management Specialist pathway. This was because at the same as my new apprenticeship started, I was successful in obtaining a new role.
I’m now a year into my MSc adventure and have been reflecting on what the adventure has been so far.
It’s a shorter but tougher adventure
The MSc is not completely different to the BSc but it does have a shorter time span for completion. The BSc took me roughly 3 years. The MSc is roughly 2 years. Although shorter in time, the learning materials are more challenging and it is taking me longer to learn (read materials, watch lectures, attend workshops) and complete assignments.
It has less modules
I undertook 11 modules, 2 additional modules and a major project for the BSc. Those 2 additional modules where of my choosing, and I went for more software engineering covering web app development using asp.net, and then web application security.
For the MSc it is 6 modules and a major project. Within the 6 modules are three where I’ve picked a development course (for each) that is related to both my professional growth, my organisational business needs and the apprenticeship. After completing the courses, I then need to reflect on each and demonstrate how I’ve learned and implemented my new knowledge and skills in the work place. 1 module focused on “Business & Technology” and 1 module had focused on “Technical & Digital Leadership”.
It has more reflection
Gibbs. Driscoll. STAR. The MSc has a lot more reflection built into it and a more emphasis on why reflection is important. A bit like how metrics are important in DevOps (if you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it?), without reflection how do you know you are on the right path?
It is mastery
The assignments want more than knowing about a subject topic or being able to apply it, they want more criticality about others work that you might be building on, more evaluation and the ability to create new ideas from this. The learning goes a lot further than BSc.
It requires more support
As I mentioned above, I took on a new role when also starting my MSc. This new role includes new responsibilities for me, including leading a (fantastic) team. On reflection, I probably should have took on the role and then the MSc at a later date (more on that though in a minute or two) as both have time requirements and learning curves. Which mean more pressure than I was previously used to.
Thankfully I have an amazing family that supports me at home, great management and that fantastic team that support me at work and an ace skills coach / academic team that support me in the education setting.
I’m lucky
My MSc is funded via an apprentice levy from my employer. Without it, I would not be able to afford the MSc. I also get support from my employer (see above). Both things I considered lucky for myself. During May 2025 the UK Government announced they are ring fencing the funding for Level 7 apprenticeships to 16 – 21 year-olds. I’m outside of that age bracket, so again feel very lucky to be undertaking the MSc now and grateful I did not wait until a later date.
I think apprenticeships are a great way of learning and act as pathways to further learning, but I’m not sure if many 16 – 21 year-olds would be ready to study a Level 7 or have their career planned enough to know to go for one. If you are 16 -21 years old, have the skills and want to go for a Level 7 then I encourage you to do so. Personally, I think the government should have created more entry pathways (Level 2) that lead all the way through to Level 7 with clear progression connections between each level.
The hard work needed for success
I think the iceberg illusion sums it up best. The hard work needed for success is not always visible.