Technology giant launches degree apprenticeship with Essex

Global technology company ARM is joining forces with the University of Essex to launch degree apprenticeships to develop the next generation of engineers.

Degree apprenticeships are the Government’s flagship scheme designed to revolutionise the way young people get started on their career and are being supported by the apprenticeship levy coming into force from this week.

They help businesses develop graduate-level talent through on-the-job and academic training tailored to their needs. At the same time they give young people the opportunity to study for an Honours degree while working and getting real hands-on experience.

The School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering at the University of Essex was the first university in the eastern region to offer high-tech degree apprenticeships accredited by the national Government-backed Tech Partnership initiative.

ARM, which has its global HQ in Cambridge, will initially offer 10 degree apprenticeships with successful applicants due to start in autumn 2017.

“ARM’s partnership with the University of Essex will launch our first degree apprenticeship programme, which aims to inspire and train the next generation of engineers, providing them with the technical skills and experience needed to develop the innovations of tomorrow,” said Jim Fallon, director of engineering development, ARM. “Following a thorough selection process, we are convinced that the University offers the technical resources and course framework necessary to meet our stringent requirements.”

Professor Anthony Vickers, from the University of Essex, said: “We’re delighted to be working with ARM on this new venture. ARM has been very supportive of the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering through our Industrial Advisory Board and has helped us develop courses which really meet the needs of industry.”

ARM technology is already at the heart of several modules at Essex, with students using the ARM® mbed™ development board to investigate, create and deploy standards-based solutions for the Internet of Things (IoT).

Degree apprenticeship positions are available in a number of different engineering teams within ARM. The successful applicants will undertake paid work while studying toward a three year BSc or BEng Honours degree, funded by ARM, and delivered by the University of Essex. They will be able to choose from Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related subject.

On-the-job learning will be supported by a dedicated mentor at ARM and academic support from the University.

Degree apprentices will be immediately engaged in a range of exciting projects at the cutting edge of technology and can expect to get involved in tackling a variety of real-world problems.

The apprenticeship program is expected to take four and half years to complete, including a period of work and training after graduation. The apprenticeship will be completed by passing an external assessment.

• Find out more about degree apprenticeships at the University of Essex