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BSc Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree

The BSc Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree programme is developed as a three-way learning partnership between the student, the employer and the academic team. The programme focuses on data, and builds apprentices’ ability to extract insights, knowledge and intelligence from the complex data points now ubiquitous in the world of business.

As a student, you will work full-time with your employer and study at Cardiff Met on a part-time basis, one day per week. Upon completion, you will gain a full BSc qualification from Cardiff Met, developing career-relevant skills and meeting regional skills gaps.

Note: The BSc Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree recognises the Higher Apprenticeship in Data Analytics Level 4 (currently delivered by ALS Training) as a progression pathway for entry at Level 5 (Year 2) of the degree programme.

Apprenticeship Experience

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Joe shares his BSc Applied Data Science Degree Apprenticeship experience.

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Evie is studying the BSc Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree at Cardiff Met while on placement with the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Here she takes us through a typical day:

 

Course Content

Over 3 years apprentices will study 4 modules per year progressing from academic levels 4 to 6.

Year 1 (Level 4):

- Programming Fundamentals

- Data Communication

- Fundamentals of Data Science

- Mathematics for Computing


Year 2 (Level 5):

- Visualisation of Data

- Blockchain Fundamentals

- Applied Data Science

- Big Data Management


Year 3 (Level 6):

- Big Data & Distributed Computing

- Social Analytics

- Artificial Intelligence

- Apprenticeship Project


Certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of level 4 modules.
Diploma will be awarded upon successful completion of level 5 modules.
Degree will be awarded upon successful completion of level 6 modules.

Learning & Teaching

Developed as a three-way learning partnership, the programme will enable students to gain the in-demand skills needed to meet regional skills gaps. By utilising the full calendar year and applying core tenets of work-based learning, students will achieve their award within the same period as a standard full-time student, ensuring that the future skills needs of employers are met as effectively and efficiently as possible.

The programme outcomes have been designed by reference to and in compliance with the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Computing (2016), as well as referencing the QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2014).

Assessment

The assessment strategy for the programme varies to ensure the most appropriate method for each specific module and subject area. Most modules are assessed through a combination of methods such as practical assignments, written assignments, technical reports, presentations, in-class tests, peer assessments and work-based placements. Students are also continuously assessed and given feedback on their progress and development throughout the year.

In addition, apprentices are expected to demonstrate professional competencies and behaviour within the workplace. A three-way learning plan is agreed between employer, apprentice and University, which details the on-the-job training and professional competencies (specific to each employer, such as working practices, company structure and processes, induction, and professional behaviour) the student needs to meet. Progress will be reviewed every two months as part of a joint industrial/academic progress update process.

Career Opportunities 

The course will provide apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to understand, apply and critically evaluate underlying Data Science principles. In addition, apprentices will also be equipped with the skills to design and utilise Data Science systems and use industry standard tools and techniques in their implementation.

Apprentices will be ably equipped to pursue a highly lucrative career. According to Glassdoor.co.uk, Data Scientist is the 7th best job with a median base salary of £46,000 and an excess of 2000 job opportunities across the UK (data as of October 2019). 

Due to taking the apprenticeship route, apprentices who graduate from the scheme will also have three years of valuable work experience at the point of graduation, providing them with an excellent springboard to future success. 

Cost 

The Welsh Government is funding places on the programme, meaning that there is no cost for tuition fees to the company or the apprentices (standard tuition fees would be £9,000 per annum). All that will be required is day release to allow the apprentice to attend University, alongside providing the opportunity for learning experiences on the job.

Entry Requirements 

 Five GCSE passes including English Language and Mathematics at Grade C or above, or grade 4 or above for those studying newly reformed GCSEs in England. Plus, any one of the following: 

• 96 points from at least 2 A-Levels to include grades CC, Welsh Bacc to be considered alongside this as a third subject. 

• BTEC National Extended Diploma with grades MMM 

• 96 points from at least two Scottish advanced highers to include grades DD 

• 96 points from the Irish Leaving Certificate at Highers to include 2 x H2 grades. Higher level subjects only considered with a minimum grade H4 

• 96 points from the Access to Higher Education Diploma

• A related apprenticeship at level 4. The Higher Apprenticeship in Data Analytics Level 4 is recognised as a direct entry to Level 5 of the programme.

How to Apply & Vacancies

Apprenticeship vacancies are advertised and handled by employers.

Contact Us

Potential apprentices looking for more information about the BSc Applied Data Science Apprenticeship Degree and employers interested to enrol their apprentices or employees into this programme, please contact Priyatharshini Rajaram, our Degree Apprenticeships Lead:
Email: apprenticeships@cardiffmet.ac.uk or prentisiaethau@cardiffmet.ac.uk