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USW Launch Innovative New Degree Apprenticeship

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The University of South Wales has joined forces with technology company Capgemini in the UK to launch an innovative new degree apprenticeship. The course will provide students with the opportunity to gain a University degree qualification without incurring a student debt while gaining hands-on experience in IT consultancy.

The first cohort of 20 students will start the BSc (Hons) Digital and Technology Solutions apprenticeship this September, while working at Capgemini, a global leader in consulting, technology services and digital transformation.

Fully funded by Welsh Government, the course will allow those starting their careers or looking to reskill to become rounded professionals with a broad technological skill set and a consulting edge.

The four-and-a-half year course will be delivered through a unique combination of online learning and face-to-face teaching at the University’s Pontypridd campus. It kicks off with an intensive 8-week bootcamp, where apprentices will develop core skills needed for working with clients.

Applicants will be assessed at Capgemini’s Delivery Centre in Treforest, and successful candidates will not only benefit from full employment, a competitive salary and a sponsored degree but also opportunities to progress through the company.

Francis Cowe, Director of FE Partnerships and Degree Apprenticeship at USW said:

“This is an exciting opportunity further promoting and growing digital and technological expertise in the region.  We are seeing an increasing demand for high level applied digital graduates. With the support of Welsh Government and Capgemini we are proud to further cement USW’s reputation for co-developing digital skills solutions in the region.

“This builds on our existing portfolio of provision in data science and cyber security. As a global company Capgemini will offer apprentices access to a wider national and international network and provide opportunities for apprentices to develop work experience in a range of sectors.”

Stuart Coombs, Head of Capgemini’s Wales Delivery Centre, commented:

“We’ve been running apprenticeships at Capgemini for almost a decade and they’ve proved to be a key part of our growth while providing a great employment opportunity to talent from diverse backgrounds. It is fantastic to be now launching our scheme in Wales – our apprentices will be able to attain a full Honours degree while growing their digital and soft skills with a global company, which combined will help unlock their full potential and future-proof them. Together with our investment in the Delivery Centre in Treforest, it is another step forward in addressing the digital skills gap and supporting our long-standing clients in the South Wales.”

Kirsty Williams, Minister for Education, said:

“It is essential people are equipped with the right skills and knowledge to benefit from the opportunities an evolving labour market presents.  Degree apprenticeships are ideal for people already working in technology industries but are keen to study to degree level, or those who are new to the workforce but would like to study for a degree at the same time.

“This is also about improving social mobility and widening participation – providing alternative routes into higher education for people who didn’t consider or may not have had the opportunity to go to university straight after leaving school.

“The degree apprenticeship therefore offers those all-round benefits – they’re good for individual development, good for diversifying entry into the professions and good for Wales’ economic well-being.”

Business News Wales