Students from across the South West have embarked on a four-year course with the University of Plymouth which will enable them to learn new skills while continuing to work.
More than 20 employees from across the public and private sector have signed up for the first degree apprenticeships run by the University’s School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics.
Over the next four years, they will learn a range of skills needed to excel in some of the most in-demand digital and technology careers in the UK.
At the end of their studies, they will graduate with a BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions and also secure an associate membership of the Institute of Information Security Professionals (IISP).
The apprenticeships are part of a government-backed initiative which aims to offer employers the chance to enhance the skills of their current workforce, while employees get the chance to earn while they learn.
They are being delivered in conjunction with three of the University partner colleges – City College Plymouth, Petroc and South Devon College.
Dr Ismini Vasileiou, Lecturer in Information Systems at the University, is leading the BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions course. She said:
“The degree apprenticeships are a brilliant way for the university to use its expertise in this field to benefit the local business community. The course has been designed to fill any skills gaps identified by industry professionals but also to give employees the chance to enhance their knowledge and future career prospects. The link to the IISP is an added benefit, and demonstrates that graduates from the course will have an industry recognised qualification and the connections to put it to the best possible use.”
The first students enrolled on the programme are currently employed in a range of local businesses, as well as councils and the NHS.
During their studies, they will all learn core modules around the fundamentals of computer networking, programming, analysis and project management.
They will also be able to specialise in one of four elective modules, giving them the skills to become a cyber security analyst, IT consultant, network engineer or software engineer.
Having launched its first cohort, the University is now recruiting for further intakes starting in January 2018 and March 2018.
