Program Overview
This public sector-oriented apprenticeship equips individuals with systems thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate complex challenges. Participants collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, apply practical learning through work-based modules, and culminate in an End Point Assessment to demonstrate their proficiency. The program enhances participants' ability to drive improvements, promote collaboration, and create lasting value within their organizations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This course is designed for individuals working in the public sector who are facing complex challenges and are eager to collaborate with peers from other services and organizations. It is also beneficial for employers seeking internal improvements within their organizations, as the course was developed in collaboration with key public sector organizations. The program caters to individuals seeking professional development and open to learning new ways of thinking and doing. It is targeted towards mid to senior-level staff, but inclusive of various job roles and levels of seniority.
Objectives:
The program aims to equip individuals with the skills and tools to explore multiple perspectives, structures, power balances, and interrelationships that make up public sector systems.
Description:
The program provides theoretical and practical foundations in systems thinking, instruction in cross-disciplinary problem-solving, delivering services under complexity, risk, and uncertainty, and equality, diversity, and inclusive leadership in the public sector. It complements taught modules with two work-based practice modules, allowing apprentices to apply their skills and learning in practice. The program enhances understanding of problems and explores potential improvements within the organization, providing practical experience in using applied systemic approaches.
Assessment:
The program culminates in an End Point Assessment (EPA) consisting of a written component (a work-based report) and an oral component (a professional discussion). The University supports apprentices in completing their portfolio in partnership with their workplace.
Teaching:
The blended learning format incorporates:
- Approximately 12 engaging online master classes days over 24 months.
- Online learning activities.
- Two major work-based practice modules - applying learning to real challenges. Apprentices are assigned a workplace mentor within their organization and an academic mentor to ensure successful program completion.
Careers:
The Systems Thinking Practitioner Apprenticeship focuses on meeting the needs of public employers for addressing complex systems challenges in the 21st Century. Upon completion, apprentices will have developed knowledge and skills in various key areas, including organizational design and improvement, collaborative approaches to problem structuring, systems modeling, stakeholder engagement, intervention design, and management. Equipped with the tools of systems thinking, apprentices will be better equipped to tackle complex contemporary challenges and add lasting value to their organization.
Other:
The public sphere is an increasingly complex and entangled space: departments and laboratories face challenges that transcend traditional organizational boundaries, which can only be met by staff working across departments and intellectual disciplines.
University of Exeter
Overview:
The University of Exeter is a public research university located in Exeter, Devon, England. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of law, business, and environmental sciences.
Services Offered:
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Student website:
Provides access to information and resources for current students.ELE (Exeter Learning Environment):
An online platform for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors.Email web access:
Allows students to access their university email accounts.Payment portal:
Enables students to make payments for tuition fees and other expenses.MyExeter (student app):
A mobile app that provides access to various student services and information.Library:
Offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and other resources.SID (Student Information Database):
A system for managing student records and accessing personal information.Timetable:
Allows students to view their class schedules.Programme and module information:
Provides details about academic programs and courses.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The University of Exeter offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect:
Active student societies:
A wide range of clubs and societies cater to various interests.Sports facilities:
The university has excellent sports facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and sports fields.Campus events:
Regular events and activities are organized throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.Accommodation options:
The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, both on and off campus.Wellbeing services:
The university offers a range of support services for student wellbeing, including counseling and mental health support.Key Reasons to Study There:
Excellent academic reputation:
The University of Exeter is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK.World-leading research:
The university is renowned for its research, particularly in areas such as environmental sciences, law, and business.Vibrant student life:
The university offers a diverse and engaging student experience with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.Beautiful campus setting:
The university's campuses are located in picturesque settings, with easy access to the city of Exeter and the surrounding countryside.Strong career support:
The university provides excellent career support services to help students find employment after graduation.Academic Programs:
The University of Exeter offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
English, History, Classics, Philosophy, Music, Drama, and more.Social Sciences:
Law, Politics, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, and more.Science and Engineering:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and more.Medicine and Health:
Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and more.Business and Management:
Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, and more.Other:
- The university has three main campuses: Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus, and Penryn Campus.
- The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental issues.
-
The university has a strong international reputation and attracts students from all over the world.
-
Academic Programs:
While the context mentions some general disciplines, it does not provide a detailed outline of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution.
Entry Requirements:
Either a first degree in any subject and/or a minimum of three years’ work experience. Level 2 Maths and English will need to be evidenced prior to end-point assessment (EPA). Individual employers may set additional selection criteria in discussion with the University.
