Career change routes · checked 3 November 2026

How to retrain into a regulated career in England

92 routes into the NHS, teaching, social work, policing, law and accountancy: what you need to start, how long it takes, and who pays. Every line comes from the official body that runs the route, linked beside it. Where a source didn't say, we say so rather than guess.

42 of 92 routes pay you while you train, and 36 of 48 careers have at least one paid route.

In Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland? See where your nation's routes are.

Download the CSV See which of these your CV is closest to

The short version

Not in England?

Everything on this page is for England. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland train and fund nurses, teachers, social workers and allied health staff their own way, with different courses, bursaries and student finance. Start with your nation's official careers service and the bodies below.

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

92 of 92 routes

Nursing, midwifery and allied health

  • The NHS Learning Support Fund pays students a £5,000-a-year Training Grant (2026–27). It adds £1,000 for mental health and learning disability nursing, radiography, podiatry, orthoptics and prosthetics, and £2,000 if you have a child under 15. You need to be eligible for Student Finance.
  • Universities say a previous degree usually doesn't stop Student Finance for these courses. Confirm with Student Finance England before you apply.
  • Most of these jobs start at NHS Band 5: £32,073 from 1 April 2026.

  • Adult nurse

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (4 for a dual-field degree)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree in a relevant subject
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0781.
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Children's nurse

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (4 for a dual-field degree)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree in a relevant subject
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0781.
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Mental health nurse

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (4 for a dual-field degree)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree in a relevant subject
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0781.
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Learning disability nurse

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (4 for a dual-field degree)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree in a relevant subject
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0781.
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Midwife

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (at least 4,600 hours)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

      There's no shortened route for graduates who aren't nurses: NMC standards don't allow credit for prior learning, so a postgraduate-entry course still takes 3 years.

    2. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0948.
      Leads to
      NMC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Shortened course for registered adult nurses Student funding

      At least 18 months (3,000 hours), or 2 years (3,600 hours)

      Entry
      NMC-registered adult nurse
      Funding
      Set by the course; ask the university.
      Leads to
      NMC registration as a midwife

      These are the NMC's minimums. Which universities run the 18-month course wasn't confirmed.

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uknmc.org.uk

  • Physiotherapist

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A relevant degree
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0519.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Occupational therapist

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      1 to 2 years

      Entry
      A degree (subject not stated)
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0517.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Paramedic

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 to 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5, moving to 6 after 2 years (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

      A full manual driving licence and 2 years' driving experience are expected. Graduates may be assessed case by case for the Learning Support Fund. A graduate-entry route wasn't confirmed.

    2. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0567.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5, moving to 6 after 2 years (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Diagnostic radiographer

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 or 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree (subject not stated)
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0619.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Therapeutic radiographer

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 or 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree (subject not stated)
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0620.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Speech and language therapist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 to 4 years (courses listed)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A relevant first degree
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0618.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Dietitian

    What the job is like →
    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 or 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree with enough human physiology and biochemistry
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0599.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Operating department practitioner

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 years (courses listed)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

      A graduate-entry route wasn't confirmed.

    2. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0582.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Podiatrist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      2 to 4 years (sources differ)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      unconfirmed

      Entry
      A master's in podiatry exists
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0493.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Orthoptist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 to 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree (subject not stated)
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST1272.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Prosthetist / orthotist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      3 or 4 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    2. Postgraduate pre-registration (for graduates) Student funding

      2 years

      Entry
      A degree (subject not stated)
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant and £1,000 extra for this subject (2026–27).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      4 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST0601.
      Leads to
      HCPC registration; NHS Band 5 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orghcpc-uk.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Dental hygienist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      BSc 3 years, or FdSc / DipHE 2 years

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      GDC registration; NHS Band 5 or 6 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

      A dental nursing qualification is accepted for entry.

    2. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      3 years

      Entry
      Set by the employer and university
      Funding
      Employed while training. Apprenticeship standard ST1383.
      Leads to
      GDC registration; NHS Band 5 or 6 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.orgskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Dental therapist

    1. Undergraduate degree Student funding

      BSc 3 years (also as a combined hygiene and therapy degree)

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance, plus a £5,000-a-year NHS Training Grant (2026–27).
      Leads to
      GDC registration; NHS Band 5 or 6 (Band 5 starts at £32,073)

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.org

Psychology, science, medicine and pharmacy

  • Psychological wellbeing practitioner (NHS Talking Therapies)

    1. Trainee post Paid while training

      About 45 days of study, one day a week over an academic year

      Entry
      Graduates take a postgraduate certificate; non-graduates a graduate-level equivalent or a Level 6 apprenticeship. Some mental health experience helps.
      Funding
      Training fully funded. Band 4 while training. After NHS-funded psychological professions training you can't start another for 2 years (since 1 April 2022).
      Leads to
      Registration with BPS or BABCP; Band 5

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • High-intensity CBT therapist

    1. Trainee post (postgraduate diploma) Paid while training

      12 months (about 2 days a week at university)

      Entry
      Usually a degree plus a recognised core profession, or a knowledge, skills and attitudes portfolio. PWPs need 2 years' continuous work after qualifying.
      Funding
      Training fully funded. Band 6 while training. After NHS-funded psychological professions training you can't start another for 2 years (since 1 April 2022).
      Leads to
      BABCP-accredited postgraduate diploma; Band 7

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukhealthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • Clinical psychologist

    1. Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) Paid while training

      3 years full-time

      Entry
      A psychology degree giving BPS Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership. 30 UK programmes; highly competitive.
      Funding
      A salaried training post at Band 6. After NHS-funded psychological professions training you can't start another for 2 years (since 1 April 2022).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration (practitioner psychologist); Band 7

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukhcpc-uk.orgnhsemployers.org

  • Clinical associate in psychology

    1. Level 7 degree apprenticeship Paid while training

      18 months full-time

      Entry
      A BPS-accredited psychology degree or conversion course, plus paid or voluntary health or mental health experience
      Funding
      Band 5 while training. From 1 January 2026, Level 7 apprenticeships are government-funded only for people starting under 22 (or under 25 with an EHC plan or care history).
      Leads to
      Master's-level qualification; Band 6

      Whether the Level 7 funding limit applies to this standard wasn't confirmed. The regulator wasn't stated.

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • Clinical scientist (healthcare science)

    1. Scientist Training Programme, direct entry Paid while training

      3 years, with an accredited master's

      Entry
      A 1st or 2:1 in a relevant pure or applied science (a 2:2 with a relevant higher degree). Postgraduate diplomas aren't accepted.
      Funding
      A fixed-term, salaried training post.
      Leads to
      AHCS Certificate of Attainment, then HCPC registration as a clinical scientist

      2026 recruitment is closed; 2027 is expected to open in January 2027. The trainee band wasn't confirmed.

    Sources: nshcs.hee.nhs.uknshcs.hee.nhs.uk

  • Healthcare science practitioner

    1. Practitioner Training Programme (BSc) Student funding

      3 years, with at least 50 weeks of NHS workplace training

      Entry
      Through UCAS; grades set by each university
      Funding
      The NHS doesn't fund full-time undergraduate healthcare science degrees in England. Also offered as a Level 6 apprenticeship (ST0413).
      Leads to
      HCPC registration as a biomedical scientist (life sciences), or AHCS / IPEM registers

    Sources: nshcs.hee.nhs.ukhealthcareers.nhs.uk

  • Doctor

    1. Graduate-entry medicine (4 years) Student funding

      4 years

      Entry
      Most schools expect at least a 2:1, usually in science; some accept any subject. An admissions test such as GAMSAT may be needed.
      Funding
      Year 1: you pay part of the tuition, with a Student Finance loan for the rest. Years 2 to 4: the NHS Bursary pays part of the tuition. Living-cost loans in every year.
      Leads to
      GMC registration

      Exact 2026–27 bursary and tuition amounts weren't confirmed from an official page.

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukhealthcareers.nhs.ukfaq.nhsbsa.nhs.uk

  • Pharmacist

    1. MPharm degree, then a foundation training year Student funding

      4 years (5 with a sandwich year), then 12 months' foundation training

      Entry
      Typically A levels in chemistry and another science or maths
      Funding
      Student Finance for the degree; the foundation year is paid. NHS Learning Support Fund covers placement travel and accommodation.
      Leads to
      GPhC registration; usually Band 6

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukhealthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • Pharmacy technician

    1. Pre-registration trainee, usually a Level 3 apprenticeship Paid while training

      2 years

      Entry
      Usually 4 GCSEs at 9 to 4, including maths, English and science
      Funding
      Usually employed while training.
      Leads to
      GPhC registration; usually Band 4

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • Physician associate (to be renamed physician assistant)

    1. Postgraduate course Student funding

      Usually 2 years (46 to 48 weeks a year, 1,600 clinical hours)

      Entry
      Usually a bioscience degree, or registration as a nurse, midwife or allied health professional
      Funding
      Some funding, varying by university. The Level 7 apprenticeship (ST0518) is paused for new starts.
      Leads to
      GMC registration; typically Band 7

      The government accepted the Leng review's recommendations on 16 July 2025, including the new title. Its response to the 2026 consultation on titles is pending.

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukgov.uknhsemployers.org

  • Nursing associate

    What the job is like →
    1. Apprenticeship (foundation degree, Level 5) Paid while training

      2 years

      Entry
      GCSE 9 to 4 in maths and English, or Functional Skills Level 2; some employers want a Level 3
      Funding
      Band 3 while training on an apprenticeship. People who apply straight to a university fund their own training. Apprenticeship standard ST0827.
      Leads to
      NMC registration as a nursing associate; Band 4. It can shorten a later nursing degree apprenticeship to 2 years.

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uknhsemployers.org

  • Healthcare assistant

    1. Entry-level job Paid while training

      Care Certificate while working; Level 2 or 3 apprenticeships available

      Entry
      No set requirements; GCSE English and maths may be asked for
      Funding
      A paid job; typically starts at Band 2.
      Leads to
      A way in to assistant practitioner or nursing associate roles

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

  • Anaesthesia associate

    1. Postgraduate trainee post Paid while training

      24 or 27 months

      Entry
      A registered health professional with at least 3 years' experience after qualifying, or a 2:1 or better in a biomedical or biological science
      Funding
      Employed by the NHS while training; Band 5 to 7 depending on employer.
      Leads to
      GMC registration; at least Band 7

      The Leng review renames the role "physician assistant in anaesthesia".

    Sources: healthcareers.nhs.uknhsemployers.org

Teaching

  • Qualified teachers start on at least £34,069 outside London from September 2026; unqualified trainees on salaried routes start from £23,732.

  • School teacher

    1. Postgraduate, fee-funded (PGCE, SCITT, School Direct) Student funding

      Usually 9 months full-time; 18 to 24 months part-time

      Entry
      A bachelor's degree in any subject; GCSE grade 4 in English and maths (plus science to teach primary). Some providers ask for a 2:2 or above.
      Funding
      Fees up to £9,790 (2026–27), with tuition and maintenance loans. 2026–27 bursaries: £29,000 for chemistry, computing, maths or physics; £20,000 for design and technology or languages; £5,000 for biology or geography. Scholarships of £31,000 (chemistry, computing, physics) or £22,000 (French, German, Spanish) instead. None for primary, English or history.
      Leads to
      QTS, often with a PGCE
    2. School Direct salaried Paid while training

      1 academic year

      Entry
      As the fee-funded route; some providers want significant school experience. GCSE grade 4 in English and maths (plus science to teach primary).
      Funding
      Paid on the unqualified teacher scale (from £23,732 outside London). No bursary or student finance; any grant goes to the provider. Some providers charge a fee, for example for a PGCE.
      Leads to
      QTS
    3. Postgraduate teaching apprenticeship Paid while training

      At least 9 months, plus a 1-month assessment

      Entry
      A bachelor's degree; GCSE grade 4 in English and maths (plus science to teach primary). Normally 3 years' UK residence.
      Funding
      No training fees. Normally paid on the unqualified scale. Apprenticeship standard ST0490.
      Leads to
      QTS
    4. Teach First (Teach Lead Change) Paid while training

      2 years, after a summer of training

      Entry
      A 2:1 honours degree (a 2:2 considered for secondary only); GCSE English and maths at 4/C; no existing PGCE or QTS; right to work in the UK
      Funding
      Fully funded, with a salary from day one (amount not stated).
      Leads to
      QTS with a PGCE
    5. Assessment only Alongside your job

      Up to 12 weeks

      Entry
      A degree and GCSE grade 4 in English and maths (plus science to teach primary). At least 2 years' teaching across 2 or more schools (or 5 in one), already meeting the Teachers' Standards.
      Funding
      About £1,500 to £4,000, paid by you or your school.
      Leads to
      QTS
    6. Teacher degree apprenticeship (no degree needed) Paid while training

      Typically 45 months, plus a 1-month assessment

      Entry
      No degree. Lived in England for the last 3 years; GCSE grade 4 in English and maths (plus science to teach primary); A levels set by each university.
      Funding
      No tuition fees and no student finance. Paid on the unqualified scale in maintained schools. Apprenticeship standard ST1502.
      Leads to
      A bachelor's degree and QTS

    Sources: getintoteaching.education.gov.ukgetintoteaching.education.gov.ukgov.ukgetintoteaching.education.gov.ukassets.publishing.service.gov.ukgetintoteaching.education.gov.ukskillsengland.education.gov.ukteachleadchange.org.ukteachleadchange.org.ukgetintoteaching.education.gov.ukgov.ukgetintoteaching.education.gov.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Further education teacher

    1. Teach in a college while you qualify Paid while training

      Employers usually expect the qualification within 2 years

      Entry
      Level 2 English and maths. Vocational subjects: usually a Level 3 trade qualification and industry experience. Academic subjects: usually a degree in the subject.
      Funding
      College pay (QTS isn't required). FE bursaries 2026–27: £31,000 for computing, engineering, maths and science; £15,000 for SEND; £10,000 for English.
      Leads to
      Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, or a PGCE (FE); later QTLS
    2. QTLS (Education and Training Foundation) Alongside your job

      6 months, about 4 hours a week

      Entry
      Salaried in FE teaching post-14 groups; a Level 5 teaching qualification; Level 2 English and maths; at least 230 hours' group teaching over 6 months
      Funding
      £55 application plus £570 formation fee, plus ETF membership.
      Leads to
      QTLS, recognised as QTS for schools while ETF membership is active

      The next cohort runs 25 January to 30 June 2027; applications close 10 November 2026.

    Sources: teachinfurthereducation.education.gov.ukteachinfurthereducation.education.gov.uketfoundation.co.ukgov.uk

  • Early years teacher

    1. Graduate entry (EYTS) Student funding

      About 1 year

      Entry
      A bachelor's degree; GCSE grade 4 in maths, English and science
      Funding
      DfE pays the provider a £9,535 training grant. Bursary of £5,000 (1st or doctorate), £4,000 (2:1 or master's) or £2,000 (2:2) in 2026–27.
      Leads to
      Early Years Teacher Status (ages 0 to 5; not QTS)
    2. Graduate employment-based (EYTS) Paid while training

      About 1 year

      Entry
      A bachelor's degree; GCSE grade 4 in maths, English and science; a job in an early years setting
      Funding
      Your employer pays your salary; DfE pays the provider £9,535 and the employer a £7,000 incentive.
      Leads to
      Early Years Teacher Status

    Sources: getintoteaching.education.gov.ukgov.uk

Social work

  • Social worker

    1. Postgraduate MA, MSc or PGDip Bursary

      Usually 2 years full-time

      Entry
      A degree in another subject; each university sets the class and experience it wants
      Funding
      2026–27 NHS social work bursary: up to £3,762.50 (London) or £3,362.50, plus £4,052 towards tuition, plus an income-assessed grant of up to £4,201 (London) or £2,721. Places are capped per university. You can't take a Master's loan alongside it.
      Leads to
      Social Work England registration, then an assessed first year (ASYE)
    2. Undergraduate BA or BSc Student funding

      3 years full-time

      Entry
      Set by each university
      Funding
      Student Finance loans. 2026–27 bursary of £5,262.50 (London) or £4,862.50 for the final 2 years only; no help with tuition.
      Leads to
      Social Work England registration
    3. Degree apprenticeship (Level 6) Paid while training

      36 months

      Entry
      Set by the employer; no upper age limit
      Funding
      No tuition fees. Apprenticeship standard ST0510.
      Leads to
      Social Work England registration

    Sources: support-for-social-workers.education.gov.ukgov.uksupport-for-social-workers.education.gov.uknhsbsa.nhs.uksupport-for-social-workers.education.gov.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Social worker (children and families)

    1. Step Up to Social Work Bursary

      14 months full-time

      Entry
      A 2:2 or better in another subject; GCSE English at 4/C; 6 months' direct experience; living in England. Not already qualified in social work.
      Funding
      £21,995 tax-free bursary, no tuition fees.
      Leads to
      Postgraduate diploma, then Social Work England registration

      Intakes run every 2 years. The 2026 intake is closed and the next date isn't published.

    2. Approach Social Work (formerly the Frontline programme) Bursary

      3 years: postgraduate diploma in 14 months, then the assessed year, then a master's

      Entry
      A 2:2 or better (held or predicted); GCSE English at 4/C; right to work and study until September 2030; living in England. Not already qualified in social work.
      Funding
      Year 1: £18,000 (£20,000 in London) tax-free, no fees. Years 2 and 3: a salary.
      Leads to
      Postgraduate diploma and Social Work England registration, then a master's

      DfE gives salaries in years 2 and 3 as up to £34,000; Frontline reports £30,000 to £39,000.

    Sources: gov.uksupport-for-social-workers.education.gov.uksupport-for-social-workers.education.gov.ukthefrontline.org.uk

Policing and probation

  • Police constable

    1. Degree-holder entry (DHEP) Paid while training

      Normally 2 years

      Entry
      A Level 6 degree in any subject except professional policing
      Funding
      Constables start on £31,164 (from 1 September 2025); forces may start new officers on £32,472.
      Leads to
      Graduate diploma in professional policing practice

      Each force chooses which routes it runs.

    2. Police constable degree apprenticeship (PCDA) Paid while training

      Normally 3 years

      Entry
      A levels in 2 or more subjects, or equivalent
      Funding
      Constables start on £31,164 (from 1 September 2025); forces may start new officers on £32,472.
      Leads to
      Degree in professional policing practice
    3. Police constable entry programme (PCEP, no degree) Paid while training

      2 years

      Entry
      A levels in 2 or more subjects, or equivalent
      Funding
      Constables start on £31,164 (from 1 September 2025); forces may start new officers on £32,472.
      Leads to
      Confirmed as a constable; no degree

      Introduced on 1 April 2024. Which forces offer it varies.

    4. Police Now (graduate leadership or detective) Paid while training

      2 years

      Entry
      A 2:1 or better in a non-policing degree
      Funding
      A warranted officer from day one.
      Leads to
      Graduate diploma

    Sources: joiningthepolice.co.ukgov.ukcollegeofpolicing-newsroom.prgloo.com

  • Detective constable

    1. Detective degree-holder entry Paid while training

      2 years

      Entry
      As DHEP: a degree in any subject except professional policing
      Funding
      Constables start on £31,164 (from 1 September 2025); forces may start new officers on £32,472.
      Leads to
      Graduate diploma plus PIP2 investigator accreditation (after the National Investigators' Exam)

    Sources: joiningthepolice.co.ukgov.uk

  • Probation officer

    1. Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP) Paid while training

      Graduates 15 or 21 months; non-graduates 27 months

      Entry
      Graduate route: a Level 5 qualification or higher in any subject. Non-graduate route: Level 3.
      Funding
      Fully funded. March 2027 intake: £28,064 in training, £37,238 once qualified, plus £4,505 London weighting.
      Leads to
      Level 6 Professional Qualification in Probation

      Applications for the March 2027 intake are closed; you can register interest.

    Sources: prisonandprobationjobs.gov.uk

Law

  • Solicitor

    1. Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) Alongside your job

      2 years' qualifying work experience, plus the time you take to pass SQE1 and SQE2

      Entry
      A degree in any subject, or an equivalent Level 6 qualification; character and suitability checks
      Funding
      Exam fees from October 2026: SQE1 £2,006, SQE2 £3,086. Work experience can be paid or voluntary, with up to 4 organisations.
      Leads to
      Admission as a solicitor (SRA)

      Prep courses are optional and priced by each provider.

    Sources: sra.org.uksra.org.uksra.org.uk

  • Barrister

    1. Bar course and pupillage Student funding

      Academic stage, Bar course, then about 12 months' pupillage

      Entry
      A law degree, or a non-law degree plus a conversion course (GDL); at least a 2:2; join an Inn of Court before the Bar course
      Funding
      Pupillage pays at least £25,863 in London or £23,504 elsewhere (from 1 January 2026). Bar course fees vary by provider.
      Leads to
      Call to the Bar and a practising certificate

    Sources: barstandardsboard.org.ukbarstandardsboard.org.uk

  • Paralegal

    1. Paralegal apprenticeship (Level 3) Paid while training

      unconfirmed

      Entry
      Set by the employer
      Funding
      Apprenticeship standard ST0245. An advanced paralegal standard (ST1476, Level 5) also exists.
      Leads to
      A first legal job; a step towards CILEX or the SQE

    Sources: skillsengland.education.gov.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uk

Accountancy

  • From 1 January 2026, new Level 7 apprenticeships are government-funded only for people under 22, or under 25 with an EHC plan or care history. Most adult career-changers won't get one funded.

  • Chartered accountant (ACA, ICAEW)

    What the job is like →
    1. Training contract with an authorised employer Paid while training

      Typically 3 to 5 years

      Entry
      Any recognised degree, or 2 A levels and 3 GCSEs. Mature route: aged 25+ with 7 years' experience in finance, law or accountancy.
      Funding
      Usually employer-funded. 14 exams; 450 days of work experience.
      Leads to
      ACA, chartered accountant

    Sources: icaew.comicaew.com

  • Chartered certified accountant (ACCA)

    What the job is like →
    1. ACCA qualification Alongside your job

      As little as 3 to 4 years

      Entry
      2 A levels and 3 GCSEs including English and maths, or start at Foundations
      Funding
      13 exams and 36 months of supervised experience. Registration £89, 2026 subscription £140, exams about £160 to £282 each.
      Leads to
      ACCA membership

      The qualification is being redesigned from 2027.

    Sources: accaglobal.comaccaglobal.comaccaglobal.com

  • Chartered management accountant (CIMA)

    What the job is like →
    1. CIMA Professional Qualification Alongside your job

      On average about 4 years

      Entry
      No formal requirement; without an accounting background you start with the Certificate in Business Accounting
      Funding
      12 exams across 3 levels, plus 3 years' verified experience.
      Leads to
      ACMA and CGMA

    Sources: myfuture.cimaglobal.comaicpa-cima.com

  • Accounting technician (AAT)

    What the job is like →
    1. AAT Levels 2 to 4 Alongside your job

      Level 2 and 3: 6 to 12 months each; Level 4: 12 to 18 months

      Entry
      Start at any level; good English and maths recommended. Exemptions for finance qualifications.
      Funding
      Qualification fees £460 to £603 per level. Also apprenticeships (ST0002 Level 3, ST0003 Level 4).
      Leads to
      MAAT membership; exemptions towards ACCA and others

    Sources: aat.org.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uk

  • Accountant (degree-level apprenticeship)

    What the job is like →
    1. Accountancy or taxation professional apprenticeship (Level 7) Paid while training

      36 months

      Entry
      Set by the employer
      Funding
      Apprenticeship standard ST0001. From 1 January 2026, new Level 7 apprenticeships are government-funded only for people under 22, or under 25 with an EHC plan or care history. Most adult career-changers won't get one funded.
      Leads to
      A professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA or CIMA

    Sources: skillsengland.education.gov.ukskillsengland.education.gov.uk

Questions

Can I retrain as a nurse, physiotherapist or OT if I already have a degree?

Yes. Most nursing and allied health professions have a 2-year postgraduate course for graduates. The NHS Learning Support Fund also pays a £5,000-a-year Training Grant on top of Student Finance (2026–27). Midwifery is the exception: a graduate who isn't a nurse still trains for 3 years.

Which careers pay you while you retrain?

Degree apprenticeships in the NHS, teaching, social work and accountancy pay you, and so does every police constable route. So do probation officer training and salaried teacher training. In the NHS, psychological wellbeing practitioner, CBT therapist, clinical psychology and Scientist Training Programme trainees are paid. Use the "Paid while training only" filter above to list them.

How long does it take to retrain as a teacher?

With a degree, postgraduate training usually takes 9 months full-time. Without one, the teacher degree apprenticeship takes about 4 years. Qualified teachers start on at least £34,069 outside London from September 2026.

Can I become a solicitor without a law degree?

Yes. The SQE route needs a degree in any subject or an equivalent qualification, passes in SQE1 and SQE2, and 2 years' qualifying work experience, which can be paid or voluntary. The CILEX route needs no degree at all.

Do I need a degree to become an accountant?

No. ACA, ACCA, CIMA and AAT all have routes without a degree, and most people qualify while working. ICAEW also has a mature route for people aged 25 or over with 7 years' experience in finance, law or accountancy.

What do newly qualified NHS staff earn?

Most nurses, midwives and allied health professionals start at Band 5, which is £32,073 from 1 April 2026, rising to £39,043 at the top of the band.

About this dataset

92 rows, one per training route into 48 careers in England. Most are regulated careers in health, science, teaching, social work, policing, law and accountancy. Each row gives the entry requirements and how long the route takes. It says whether you're paid while you train, and lists fees, grants or pay. It also gives what you hold at the end, any caveat, and the official pages used. Every value was read on the official body's own website on 2026-11-03. Where a source didn't say, the row says so. England only. Free to reuse under CC BY 4.0 with a link back.

Columns: sectorcareerrouteentry_requirementslengthpaid_while_trainingfundingoutcomenotesourceschecked

Download the CSV (UTF-8, one row per route, header row first) · Licence: CC BY 4.0 · Version 2026-11-03

Starting from a particular job?

Some of these routes are shorter, or only open, if you already hold a job or registration. Career change pages by starting job pull those out: teaching, nursing, care work, customer service, marketing, operations, finance, software engineering.

Where this comes from

We read each route on the website of the body that runs it. For health: Health Careers, NHS Employers, the NMC and HCPC. For teaching and social work: Get Into Teaching, DfE and the Social Work England route pages. For policing and law: Joining the Police, HM Prison and Probation Service, the SRA, the Bar Standards Board and CILEX. For accountancy and apprenticeships: ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, AAT and Skills England.

Figures are for England and for the year shown. Fees, bursaries and pay change every year, so check the linked source before you apply. This is researched information, not careers advice. You're free to reuse the CSV with a link back to this page.