University of Sheffield announces pioneering degree level apprenticeships

o University's AMRC to offer unique advanced manufacturing undergraduate and postgraduate pathways in higher education designed for apprentices. o Successful apprentices will be able to study through Foundation, Bachelors and Masters Degree levels, funded by businesses - o New education route will boost UK productivity by filling vital skills gaps to meet the needs of economy and industry - o New pathway made possible thanks to £1.6m HEFCE Catalyst funding award The University of Sheffield's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) has announced a pioneering new education route for successful apprentices to study advanced vocational University degrees, as part of their apprenticeship training. The quality, industry powered, apprenticeships are set to play a key role in cementing collaborations between universities and businesses and boosting UK productivity. The University will become one of the first in higher education to offer quality advanced manufacturing Foundation, Undergraduate and Masters degrees using the apprenticeship model jointly funded with businesses. Successful apprentices will have the opportunity to continue their studies up to Masters level. The news was announced today (16 July 2015) by Minister for Universities and Science, Jo Johnson, during a visit to the AMRC. The Minister highlighted the key role the degree level apprenticeships will have in supporting innovation and boosting productivity.