Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (BSc) Degree Apprenticeship

Program Overview

The Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship is a four-year program combining academic study with on-the-job training. Apprentices work full-time with one day a week dedicated to studying, earning a BSc degree from the University of Exeter while gaining practical experience in one of five specialisms: Business Analysis, IT Consultancy, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, or Data Analysis. The program is designed for aspiring technology solutions professionals who seek to develop and improve products, services, and productivity through technology implementations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (BSc) Degree Apprenticeship is designed for aspiring technology solutions professionals who want to develop and improve products, services, and productivity through the implementation of technology solutions.

Objectives:

• Develop skills and knowledge in various technology solutions areas.
• Gain practical experience through a full-time job.
• Earn a BSc degree from the University of Exeter.
• Achieve an industry-recognized professional qualification.

Program Description:

• Apprentices will work in a full-time job with one day a week (6 hours minimum) dedicated to studying.
• They will engage with one of five specialisms: Business Analysis, IT Consultancy, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, or Data Analysis.
• Apprentices come from a range of organizations, from SMEs to large multinational companies across various sectors.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The program spans four years.
• It is a full University of Exeter degree aligned with the Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions Professional (integrated degree) Apprenticeship.
• The program combines academic rigor with industry-recognized professional qualifications.

Course Schedule:

• Year 1: All modules are compulsory, including taught modules at 15 credits each and 30 credits of work-based learning.
• Year 2: All modules are compulsory, including taught modules at 15 credits each and 30 credits of work-based learning.
• Year 3: Includes two compulsory taught modules (15 credits each), one elected specialism module (15 credits), and 45 credits of work-based learning.
• Year 4: Includes one elected specialism module (15 credits), one chosen module (15 credits), and 60 credits of work-based learning for the final project.

Individual Modules:

• Year 1:
• Business Organisation
• Interpersonal and Foundation Skills
• Systems Development 1
• Reflective Practice 1
• Presentation
• Year 2:
• Digital Technology Infrastructure
• IT Project Management
• Systems Development 2
• Reflective Practice 2
• Presentation
• Year 3:
• IT Law and Ethics
• Software Engineering 1 (Specialism)
• Business Analysis 1 (Specialism)
• IT Consulting 1 (Specialism)
• Data Analysis 1 (Specialism)
• Cyber Security 1 (Specialism)
• Reflective Practice 3
• Presentation
• Year 4:
• Software Engineering 2 (Specialism)
• Business Analysis 2 (Specialism)
• IT Consulting 2 (Specialism)
• Data Analysis 2 (Specialism)
• Cyber Security 2 (Specialism)
• Choose one option from Year 3, Term 2 modules (except your own specialism) or an independent project.
• Synoptic Project
• Presentation
• End-point Assessment (EPA)

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• Exams
• Presentations
• Work-based learning assessments
• End-point Assessment (EPA)
• Assessment Criteria:

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Blended learning format
• On-campus teaching blocks
• Distance learning
• Online workshops and classes
• Guided self-study
• Work-based learning projects
• Faculty:
• Unique Approaches:
• The program emphasizes a close relationship between employers and the University.
• Work-based projects are designed to reflect real-world challenges faced in the workplace.
• Dedicated partnerships team liaises with employers throughout the program.
• Apprentices have dedicated mentors to support them and their employers.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Business Analyst
• IT Consultant
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Software Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Opportunities:
• The program provides apprentices with solid industry experience, making them highly employable.
• Graduates will have both professional and academic experience sought after by employers.
• Outcomes:
• Apprentices will graduate debt-free and into employment.
• They will be equipped to drive impact within their organizations.

Other:

• Accreditation:
• It is also accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting the academic requirements for registration as a Chartered IT Professional and an IT Technician.
• Program Alignment:
• The program aligns with the Level 6 Digital and Technology Solutions standard.
• The program offers employers the opportunity to shape the development of their next-generation employees.
• It provides pathways relating to specific role areas across five IT specialisms.
• The program minimizes disruption to an apprentice's work and daily job.
• Apprentices implement skills and knowledge directly into their positions, increasing productivity and efficiency.