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Heriot-Watt has bolstered its support for a ground-breaking education programme that allows individuals to study while in paid employment.
The university today announced it has more than doubled the number of study programmes it offers – from three to seven – under the Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) scheme.
Developed by Skills Development Scotland, with support from the European Social Fund, the scheme works with businesses, universities and colleges across Scotland.
Heriot-Watt develops and delivers Graduate Apprenticeships in partnership with industry, to combine academic knowledge with the skills development and workplace training required by employers.
Apprentices spend most of their time in the workplace, will be paid throughout the apprenticeship and leave the programme with a qualification from Heriot-Watt. The university is pioneering a flexible learning route to allow employees to learn while they are working.
Funding for a total of 175 places has been secured providing programmes in:
• IT Management for Business
• IT Software Development
• Engineering: Design and Manufacturing
• Business Management
• Business Management (Financial Services)
• Civil Engineering
• Engineering: Built Environment
Dr Gillian Murray Deputy Principal, Enterprise and Business, said: “Heriot-Watt is known for its strong links with industry and, as a university, we're delighted to more than double the number of Graduate Apprenticeships programmes now on offer.
“GA's are a fantastic way for someone to gain qualifications up to degree level while in paid employment.
“It also allows employers to invest in their workforce by up-skilling staff and ensuring they are ready for the world of work.
“This is the latest successful example of Heriot-Watt working alongside the business community.”
Skills Development Scotland, Director of Service Design and Innovation, Jonathan Clark, said: “Graduate Apprenticeships have the potential to transform the way that young people access further and higher education, and it's clear from the demand that many companies and Universities feel the same way.
“Graduate Apprentices will be employed during their studies and because much of the learning takes place in the workplace they will have the opportunity to immediately apply what they learn at college or university in their jobs – and vice versa.
“This provides opportunities for employers to help shape the skills of their employees and to address skills shortages affecting their industry and the local economy.”
Read more about our Graduate Apprenticeships.