New graduate apprenticeship opportunities announced
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A new round of graduate apprenticeship (GA) opportunities has been announced by Robert Gordon University, which have been awarded by the Scottish Funding Council.
The university will offer more than 200 fully-funded GA places for entry in September 2021, across a range of disciplines including accountancy, construction, engineering, data science, business management, with a new Masters level programme launching in cyber security.
Developed by Skills Development Scotland in collaboration with industry and the further and higher education sectors, GAs allow individuals to get qualified up to Master’s degree level while in paid employment.
They are designed by employers and industry and offered in key sectors that need highly skilled employees.
RGU is already working in partnership with more than 240 businesses and public sector organisations covering the length and breadth of Scotland.
In 2020, despite the pandemic, more than 200 apprentices were enrolled in the university’s GA programmes, highlighting the continued need for organisations to develop their workforces in response to the challenging economic environment and the value of highly-skilled staff in helping organisations to be resilient in the face of seemingly unending challenges.
RGU's associate vice principal for business and economic development Donella Beaton said: “Our GA courses have been designed to optimise time in the workplace, making extensive use of online learning through engaging content and opportunities to interact with classmates and subject experts.
“This approach is particularly relevant in the current environment where digital education has become the norm. Apprentices can immediately put their enhanced skills and knowledge into practice with the support of their employer and the university, allowing them to succeed in their role.
“This latest award cements our position as a leading provider of GAs and we look forward to working with many more businesses as we drive this innovative work-based learning model forward.”
RGU’s approach to GAs allows the university to deliver its programmes in areas far beyond its Garthdee campus. Being able to pursue a degree in a workplace without having to relocate is an ideal situation for those undertaking an apprenticeship in places such as Shetland and Orkney.
Caitlin Mooney, who is currently studying a graduate apprenticeship while working at Skills Development Scotland, said: “I knew from the beginning it would be a great experience to build my skills and knowledge, but it has exceeded my expectations.
"My confidence, capability and maturity has increased and so rapidly as well, I never expected to see and feel the benefits of the graduate apprenticeship this early on. It was the best decision I’ve ever made.”
RGU can provide support to both employers and individuals considering graduate apprenticeships. More information can be found at www.rgu.ac.uk/business-innovation/graduate-apprenticeships
