Great news for aspiring software engineers in Australia! A first-of-its-kind degree-level apprenticeship program in software engineering has launched in Adelaide. This innovative initiative is a collaboration between BAE Systems, Ai Group, and the University of South Australia (UniSA).

What is a Degree-Level Apprenticeship?

This program offers a unique way to earn a Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours) degree while gaining valuable real-world experience through paid employment. Imagine graduating with a competitive degree and five years of industry experience under your belt – that’s the incredible advantage this program offers.

Benefits for Students and Graduates

This “earn and learn” model opens doors for a wider range of students who may not have the financial means or desire to pursue full-time studies without an income. Participants gain a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making them highly sought-after graduates in the software engineering industry.

How Does it Work for Employers?

Companies participating in the program benefit by getting a head start on identifying and nurturing top talent. They have the opportunity to shape the university curriculum to align with their specific needs, ensuring graduates possess the skills most relevant to their workplaces. Upon program completion, employers gain access to highly skilled and experienced software engineers who can seamlessly integrate into their teams.

More Than Just an Internship

It’s important to note that this program is distinct from traditional internship or scholarship programs. This is a formal apprenticeship recognized by the South Australian Skills Commission. Apprentices receive a salary while attending university, and the program structure is designed similarly to a standard apprenticeship, with around 80% of the time spent gaining on-the-job experience and 20% dedicated to university studies.

Looking to Get Involved?

Are you a company seeking top software engineering talent or an individual with a passion for software development? Ai Group encourages interested parties to register on their website to learn more about this exciting new program. This Australian first paves the way for a future where education and industry work together to develop highly skilled professionals, benefiting both graduates and employers.

Source: AI Group

Date published: April 23, 2024