Apprentice Social Researcher

If you're naturally curious about why people behave the way they do or want to understand the "how" and "why" behind social issues, you could be perfect for a career in social research.

Our degree apprenticeship programme offers a fee-free Applied Social Research degree from the University of Kent alongside working in a government department. This scheme allows you to earn whilst you learn. No research experience is necessary, just a desire to learn!

Picture yourself designing surveys that capture what entire populations think, running focus groups that dive deep into people's experiences, or analysing data that reveals otherwise hidden patterns in how society functions. You might be evaluating whether a new policy is helping people find jobs, researching what makes communities feel safer, or investigating why some educational programmes succeed whilst others don't.

Apprenticeships are available at a range of government departments across England. Our apprentices will typically spend 4 days per week working in their government department, and 1 day studying online with the University of Kent.

Our apprentices will benefit from:

• A fee-free social research degree from The University of Kent

• A paid government role

• Opportunities across England

• Meaningful work that makes a difference to society

• An inclusive and diverse working environment.

• Permanent government role upon successful completion of the degree apprenticeship

Eligibility criteria apply. Please refer to the full eligibility criteria on the application page.

“My first few months in role have exceeded any expectations I had. My team and line manager have been so welcoming and supportive. I have had opportunities to meet people from so many areas within my department and be involved in many different projects. “- Helena, Apprentice Social Researcher

Live application window

• 13 January 2026 – 6 February 2026

Annual salary

• National minimum - £27,380

• London minimum - £29,722

Locations

• Birmingham, Bristol, Croydon, Darlington, Fareham (Titchfield), Leeds, London, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, Salford, Sheffield, Wolverhampton

Role start date

September 2026 (TBC)