Follow the data … with a Degree Apprenticeship in Data Science

Constant press briefings tell us that the Government is “following the data” and crucial decisions are made on the results of “data analysis”.

In our new Post Covid world, the importance of the role that data plays in everyday life, has never been more obvious – and the country needs more Data Scientists with the skills to find information and use it to address complex problems and improve organisational processes. In addition, the scientists must be able to present information in a meaningful way to technical and non-technical audiences and they must understand how to safeguard the data they hold.

This mixture of practical, technical and academic skills and knowledge is ideally learnt through the Degree Apprenticeship route.

Winchester University is one of several universities that it is working with local employers to offer a BSc Data Science Degree Apprenticeship. Apprentices spend around 20% of their time training and are then able to immediately apply their new skills and knowledge to their own workplace situation. And for the apprentice, they earn while they learn – achieving a full honours degree whilst working in a permanent position, with no tuition fees to pay!

Data Scientists are not just Public Sector workers – they are needed in every sector – insurance, retail, travel, utilities for example - and this is reflected in the number of different employers that have worked together to create the programme or ‘Standard’ behind the apprenticeship and the number of jobs available for qualified people.

Employers that have been recruiting for Data Science Degree Apprentices for September 2022 include the Government Statistical Service, the BBC, Experion, WSP and Virgin Media. Recruitment for September 2022 may already be closed. Start looking early for 2023!