Digital & Technology Solutions Specialist Degree Apprenticeship

Program Overview

This Digital & Technology Solutions Specialist Degree Apprenticeship MSc program at Aston University transforms technical professionals into leaders in their field. It combines online distance learning, face-to-face teaching, and on-the-job training, with a focus on practical application and leadership in a technical context. Apprentices gain advanced knowledge in digital technologies, data analysis, and cybersecurity, preparing them for leadership roles in the tech industry. The program is funded by the UK government and employers, making it tuition-free for apprentices.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: This master's level apprenticeship program transforms you from a technical professional into a leader in your specialization.
You'll build core leadership and technology management skills before focusing on one of four specialisms: software engineer, data analyst, IT project manager, or IT strategy.
• Objectives:
• Develop professionals prepared to respond to the computing challenges of the business world.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to work at the forefront in professional practice in a chosen area of specialism.
• Prepare students with a technical computing background to take on management and leadership responsibilities.
• Enable students to effectively take responsibility for their own continuing professional development.
• Description: This program features:
• Flexible IT specialisms aligned with your career goals.
• Mastering leadership excellence in a technical context.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals and lecturers.
• Balancing academic work, full-time employment, and on-the-job training.
• Online distance learning using the Virtual Learning Environment, Blackboard.
• A professional supervisor who visits your workplace and supports your professional and personal development.
• Advanced knowledge in digital technologies, cybersecurity, and data analysis.
• Expertise in solving complex technology challenges, making data-driven decisions, and implementing digital solutions.
• Preparation for leadership roles in the tech industry.

Outline:

• Program Structure: This program is delivered through a combination of online distance learning, face-to-face teaching blocks, and on-the-job training.
• Course Schedule:
• Stage 1:
• Technology Management (30 credits)
• Leadership and Change (30 credits)
• One specialization module (30 credits):
• Data Analysis
• IT Strategy
• IT Project Management
• Software Engineering
• Professional Practice module
• Stage 2:
• Extended Project (60 credits)
• Modules:
• Stage 1:
• Technology Management: Explores the management of technology within organizations, including topics like IT governance, project management, and risk management.
• Leadership and Change: Develops leadership skills and explores the principles of organizational change management.
• Specialization Modules:
• Data Analysis: Focuses on the investigative and interrogative skills required to work with big data.
• IT Strategy: Concentrates on providing convincing advice and guidance on transformative technology-based change initiatives, driving IT strategy.
• IT Project Management: Focuses on the successful delivery of software development solutions that meet expectations.
• Software Engineering: Takes a technical focus on the development, implementation, and evaluation of complex software solutions.
• Professional Practice: Provides support and guidance for your professional and personal development in the context of your business.
• Stage 2:
• Extended Project: Allows you to deliver real business value for your employer while demonstrating the skills and knowledge learned throughout the program.
• Learning Outcomes:
• Stage 1:
• Systematically understand and display critical awareness of current practices and challenges in the digital industry.
• Plan and manage digital technology projects to accomplish organizational goals and meet operational requirements.
• Demonstrate effective technology, leadership, and change management skills for managing technology-driven change and continuous improvement.
• Operate at the forefront of professional practice in a specialist area aligned with the apprentice's working role.
• Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
• Continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.
• Stage 2:
• Apply the knowledge and skills learned throughout the program to a real-world business problem, demonstrating the ability to contribute to the success of your organization.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• Assignments with a practical focus related to your business setting or industry case studies.
• End Point Assessment to achieve the government-approved standard for the Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Degree Apprenticeship.
• Assessment Criteria:
• Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the program's content and applying it to real-world situations.
• Effectively communicating your knowledge and skills through written and oral presentations.
• Successfully completing the End Point Assessment.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Online distance learning, including live and recorded lectures, online activities, and access to academic resources.
• Professional supervision and support in the workplace.
• Faculty:
• Experienced professionals and lecturers who are experts in their fields.
• Unique Approaches:
• Focus on practical application of knowledge and skills.
• Emphasis on leadership and change management in a technical context.
• Integration of work-based learning with academic study.

Careers:

• Career Paths:
• Software Engineer
• Data Analyst
• IT Project Manager
• IT Strategy Specialist
• Career Opportunities:
• Leading and managing technology-driven projects
• Working at the forefront of innovation in the tech industry
• Consulting and advising organizations on digital transformation
• Pursuing research and development in emerging technologies
• Career Outcomes:
• Develop the skills and knowledge to succeed in leadership roles within the tech industry.
• Gain valuable work experience while earning a master's degree.
• Be prepared to make a significant contribution to the success of your organization.

Other:

• Facilities: Apprentices have full access to all facilities available to regular students, including the library, labs, study spaces, cafes, and more.
• Industry Links: Aston University has strong links with industry, ensuring the program is relevant to the needs of employers.

You will not have to pay tuition fees as a degree apprentice as the costs are met by the UK government and your employer . The funding band for this degree apprenticeship is £21,000. This is the full cost of your apprenticeship which will be paid for using your employer's apprenticeship levy.

• Employers may require students to pay the fees for resits.