I would just like to add my experience of apprenticeship programs:
I have seen apprenticeships work excellently for just out of highschoolers, and career changers. Apprenticeships are not meant to be for people with a background in the industry, but for those wanting to break into an industry without attending a formal college/university.
Apprenticeships cost the companies running them (if run well) a lot of money, and, usually, the only benefit the company get is a well-trained, hopefully loyal, employee after the two years.
Apprentices are not paid to be employees, they are paid a (what I call) living allowance . It is expected a company lose money, whilst apprenticising people.
Now, I have never heard of an apprenticeship for software engineering; typically, only more hands-in work. So, I would imagine within a couple months the work done by a Software Engineering Apprentice could be profitable to the business, but, as I say, never heard.
Also want to clarify on an earlier statement: most people I know who have done apprenticeships have been enrolled into college by the institution, during the apprenticeship. So, it is not necessarily an either/or.
Anyway… all this just to say I have seen excellent results from apprenticeships, and am impressed by most companies who offer them, and expecting a jobs wage from one is unrealistic.