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Expressions of interest from prospective degree apprentices are now being taken for the 2017 cohort

The University of Exeter’s first degree apprentices have begun

The University of Exeter’s first degree apprentices have begun their programme, launched at the start of their first residential on the Streatham Campus on Monday 12th September. 

The Digital and Technology Solutions degree apprenticeship is an innovative new programme, the first of its kind at the University.

Students employed by IBM, Renishaw and Beran Instruments, as well as employees of the University’s own IT department, will work towards a BSc (Hons) degree in IT for Business over four years through a combination of residential, online and work-based learning.

Programme Lead Dr. Simon McGinnes said: “I’m delighted that the University is offering the digital degree apprenticeship programme and that employers have been so enthusiastic about participating.

Business IT is one of those professional, vocational subjects that is best learned practically, in the business context. The apprenticeship is a great way to learn; unlike many university courses, it has been designed from the ground up to allow students to achieve mastery by practising their profession in its proper context.

The degree apprenticeship really does offer a win-win; the apprentices are able to study for their degree at an excellent institution, at no cost, and our employers can develop their IT professionals to give them the skills they really need and to make them truly effective.”

Welcoming the students to the programme at the beginning of the residential, CEMPS Associate Dean (Education) Professor Pete Vukusic expressed the College’s excitement to be launching the new programme and working together with the apprentices and their employers:

“In opting to join this course, these students become pioneers. The programme is very different from conventional degrees in that students will spend the majority of their time in the workplace, largely engaging with the University remotely. This places a great responsibility on all parties involved to ensure this experience is positive and successful. We believe this programme offers very significant advantages and rewards for the students and their employers.”

The apprentices will not incur the usual tuition fees paid by undergraduates, with their education co-sponsored by their employers and the Government.

The programme is administered by the Department of Computer Science, in the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences (EMPS).

During their first residential, the apprentices met for the first time for a week of introductory lectures, seminars, tutorials and induction ahead of beginning their professional placements. They also experienced a flavour of life in Exeter, with a dinner and visit to the city’s historic quayside.

Expressions of interest from prospective degree apprentices are now being taken for the 2017 cohort. Interested candidates should submit their details here to be the first to hear about opportunities to join next year’s programme.

Date: 16 September 2016

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