In January, degree apprenticeships in manufacturing engineering and in control and technical support engineering are due to launch at the University of Gloucestershire.

The new programmes have been developed in consultation with Gloucestershire Engineering Training and will provide a progression pathway for learners who have completed lower level qualifications with the further education provider.

The introduction of these apprenticeships is indicative of the university's commitment to advanced manufacturing in the region.

Dr Salah Al-Majeed, subject leader and head of engineering, said: "Local firms compete on a world stage that rewards innovative thinking, high level skills, expert knowledge and technological invention.

"In order to support the region's economy in being competitive in these arenas, here at the University of Gloucestershire we are committed to delivering a step change in the availability of high quality education in advanced manufacturing and engineering.

"These new apprenticeship programmes are a testament to that commitment, and will provide opportunities for people in Gloucestershire to achieve top level qualifications right here in the county.

"Our new apprenticeships are part of a wider engineering offer now available at the university, which already includes traditional undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

"However, the addition of degree apprenticeships provides a new dimension to our portfolio, as they enable us to deliver an instant injection of high-level skills into the workplace.

"This is great news for local businesses."

To find out more about the programme visit glos.ac.uk/apprenticeships 

Manufacturing Engineering Degree Apprenticeships develop engineers able to support the activities involved in bringing design programmes to production.

This role is pivotal to the planning and smooth delivery of exciting new products, or product refresh programmes.

The focus is on advanced manufacturing techniques and project management skills designed to launch products on time, on cost and of the right quality.

The control / technical support engineering degree apprenticeships develop professionals able to ensure the smooth running of manufacturing activity in areas such as site maintenance.

Typically, degree apprentices work closely with other production roles in a fast-paced and cost-conscious manufacturing environment, where complex problem solving is key.

Both apprenticeships require learners to be employed full-time in a relevant role, for at least 30 hours per week, throughout the duration of the programme, with 20 per cent of their time set aside for off-the-job training.

The programmes take approximately five years, with learners achieving a BEng from the University of Gloucestershire upon successful completion.

Entry requirements are agreed with employers but learners should have level 2 qualifications in maths and English (GCSE at grade C / 4 or above, or equivalent).

The university's engineering apprenticeships offer a highly cost-effective way for businesses to develop the specialist skills they require, as there is funding available to support them.

Larger organisations can recover costs through the apprenticeship levy, while smaller employers can access non-levy funding to meet 95 per cent of the qualification costs.

To find out more about the programme visit www.glos.ac.uk/apprenticeships.

You can also find out about the University of Gloucestershire's range of Master's engineering courses at its next Postgraduate open event on Wednesday 29 January, 4.30-6.30pm (Park Campus) - book your place today.