Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship (Railway Systems Engineering and Integration)

Program Overview

The Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship in Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the rail industry. Through a blend of academic study and practical experience, the program prepares graduates for roles as Principal Engineers and other leadership positions, with a focus on railway systems engineering and integration. The program meets the requirements for Chartered Engineer registration and is delivered in partnership with employers to provide hands-on experience.

Program Outline

Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship (Railway Systems Engineering and Integration) - University of Birmingham

Degree Overview:

The University of Birmingham offers a Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship in Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer, leading to an MSc in Railway Systems Engineering and Integration.

• To develop practical skills and knowledge applicable to real-world rail industry challenges.
• To prepare learners for the challenges of the future in the railway sector.

Outline:

The program is delivered over 3 years (36 months) part-time and involves a blend of academic study and practical work experience.

Structure:

• Induction (Primer) Course: This non-credit bearing course introduces rail and rail systems and study skills to those who may not have recent experience of higher education.
It lasts approximately 2 weeks and takes place in late August/early September each year.
• MSc in Railway Systems Engineering and Integration: This accredited program comprises 60 academic credits per year.
• Work-Based Experience: Throughout the apprenticeship, learners will be employed in an appropriate role that provides the knowledge, skills, and behaviors specified in the apprenticeship standard.

Course Schedule:

• Intensive, week-long blocks of study: These blocks include classroom lectures, tutorials, team exercises, visits, and assignments.
• Blended learning: This approach allows learners to apply their learning in the workplace immediately and use work-based experience in their academic study.

Modules:

Integrated MSc Railway Systems Engineering and Integration:

• Terminology and Communication for Railways: (Non-credit bearing)
• Engineering Apprentice End Point Assessment: (Non-credit bearing)
• Business and People Management: 20 credits
• Electrification and Traction Systems: 20 credits
• Infrastructure and Rolling Stock Systems: 20 credits
• Railway Control and Digital Systems: 20 credits
• Railway Operations, Management and Planning: 20 credits
• Systems Engineering and Ergonomics: 20 credits
• Industrial Research Project: 60 credits

Integrated MSc Railway Safety and Control Systems:

• Core Modules:
• Terminology and Communication for Railways:
(Non-credit bearing)
• Foundations of System Safety Thinking:
10 credits
• Hazard and Risk Assessment:
10 credits
• Railway Strategy, Safety and Control Systems:
20 credits
• Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Interactions:
10 credits
• Systems Engineering and Ergonomics:
20 credits
• Industrial Research Project:
60 credits
• Pathways: (50 credits in total for each pathway)
• P1 - Risk and Safety Systems Pathway:
• Core Modules:
• System Safety Assessment:
10 credits
• Systems Engineering for Safety:
10 credits
• Computers and Safety:
10 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Electrification and Traction Systems:
20 credits
• Principles of Railway Control Systems:
20 credits
• P2 - Risk and Safety Operations and Organisation:
• Core Modules:
• System Safety Assessment:
10 credits
• Safety Management Systems:
10 credits
• Through Life Safety:
10 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Principles of Railway Control Systems:
20 credits
• Electrification and Traction Systems:
20 credits
• P3 - Communications and Control Pathway:
• Core Modules:
• Applications of Railway Control Systems:
20 credits
• Principles of Railway Control Systems:
20 credits
• Safety Management Systems:
10 credits

Assessment:

• Portfolio of Evidence: Learners will compile a portfolio of evidence against the apprenticeship requirements throughout the program.
This portfolio guides discussions during regular tripartite meetings between the learner, their employer, and the University.
• End Point Assessment (EPA): This integrated assessment comprises:
• Work-based research project with a written report:
The University will provide supervision and support for the project alongside employer supervision.
• Presentation to a panel of assessors:
• Occupational competence interview:

Teaching:

• Expert Faculty: The Birmingham Centre for Railway Research and Education boasts experts in railway engineering and systems, ensuring learners are taught by leading professionals in their fields.
• Rail Industry Opportunities: Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles within the rail industry, including:
• Rail and Rail Systems Principal Engineer
• Railway Systems Engineer
• Railway Safety Engineer
• Railway Control Systems Engineer
• Railway Operations Manager

Other:

• Accreditation: The degree program is accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) on behalf of the Engineering Council.
• Employer Partnerships: The program involves close partnerships between the employer, the apprentice, and the University of Birmingham.
• Tripartite Meetings: Regular meetings between the learner, their employer, and the University ensure progress and support throughout the apprenticeship.

Fees:

The Degree Apprenticeship is paid for through the employer, with no costs incurred by the learner. Employers who have a payroll over £3 million pay an Apprenticeship Levy, which can be used to fund the program.

The Degree Apprenticeship will be paid for through your employer, there will be no costs incurred by you.