A new apprenticeship programme for banking has been launched by IOB in partnership with AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB.
The Professional Banking Practitioner Apprenticeship enables participants to earn a Level 8 degree while gaining paid, practical experience in the banking sector.
Apprentices will work in the sector while studying with IOB, which is a recognised college of UCD.
75 places will be available on the first intake. Applications are now open, with apprentices starting the programme in October 2027. Applicants must be 18 years old on or before 31 August 2027.
Apprentices will earn a BSc in Banking and Financial Services and the Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA) designation.
The new apprenticeship creates an alternative pathway into financial services. It enables participants to begin building their careers while earning a starting salary of at least €30,000 and developing the skills, qualifications and experience needed for long-term success in the sector.
The apprenticeship provides a structured route into roles in areas such as financial advice, customer service, operations and banking support.
The programme is suitable for school leavers or any individual seeking a change of career path. Entry requirements are designed to be inclusive and flexible.
Successful applicants will be employed by one of Ireland’s retail banks for the duration of the three-year programme, combining four days of workplace learning each week with one day of academic study.
Geraldine Casey, IOB President and Managing Director of Retail Banking, AIB, said the new apprenticeship programme represents an exciting alternative pathway into the industry.
“Successful applicants can start their career, earn a salary and work towards a university degree and a professional qualification, all at the same time. Banking needs talented people from a wide range of backgrounds, and this programme gives people a real choice in how they begin or develop their careers,” she added.
Mary O’Dea, CEO of IOB, said that banking and financial services are changing rapidly, and the skills people need are changing with it.
“Apprentices in this programme will learn by doing, working alongside experienced colleagues four days a week while building their knowledge in the classroom in everything from financial advice and customer service to data, AI and risk,” Ms O’Dea said.
“By the time they finish, they will have a degree, a professional qualification and three years of real-world experience, giving them a strong foundation for a long and rewarding career in financial services,” she added.
Colin Hunt, AIB’s CEO, said that the future success of the banking industry depends on attracting and developing talented people from all backgrounds.
“This apprenticeship programme creates a new and inclusive pathway into financial services, enabling people to earn while they learn, gain valuable workplace experience and achieve recognised qualifications,” he said.
“As…
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