USW expands degree apprenticeship offering with construction sector courses

The University of South Wales (USW) is one of three Welsh institutions which will be offering new degree apprenticeships this autumn.

In partnership with the Welsh Government, USW will be launching degree apprenticeships in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Building Surveying, and Real Estate in September

The fully-funded four-year programmes will offer students the chance to earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience. They will be run at USW, Wrexham University, and the University of Wales Trinity St David.

Louise Pennell, Associate Dean of Partnerships and Development in USW’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and Science, said: “We are delighted to be a part of this new push to develop the construction sector, which it is estimated will need an extra 11,000 workers by 2028.

“At USW we have extensive expertise in running these study routes. Just last year we were a key partner in the launch of the first railway engineering degree apprenticeships in Wales, a course which has already proved popular among both students and those operating in the sector.

“These new degree apprenticeships will create new opportunities for individuals and companies operating in the construction industry, and further cement our reputation as an institution which is leading the way in producing job-ready graduates with the skills needed to thrive in crucial sectors.

“If any individuals or employers want to take advantage of these courses, we’d encourage them to contact us.”

The Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: "These programmes not only prepare individuals for high-demand jobs and higher wage occupations, but will also ensure a skilled, resilient and forward-looking workforce to drive economic growth and provide innovative solutions to social and climate challenges.”

The programme will be managed by Medr, and courses will be funded by the Welsh Government through the Higher Education Funding Council Wales (HEFCW).