Postgraduate Engineer R&D Apprenticeship and Engineering Doctorate Program

By Oxford Brookes University

In a bid to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application in the field of engineering, Oxford Brookes University has introduced a pioneering apprenticeship program that offers a unique blend of academic excellence and industry relevance. The program, comprising a Postgraduate Engineer Research and Development Apprenticeship (Level 7) followed by an Engineer Doctorate (Level 8), is set to redefine the landscape of engineering education and professional development.

The PG Diploma (Phase 1) is an apprenticeship that is ideal for employers looking to build a collaborative research and development partnership with one of the leading engineering schools in the UK. It is open to talented individuals, working full-time in an automotive, mechanical or motorsport engineering role, who wish to develop a multidisciplinary outlook by undertaking company-relevant applied research. Phase 1 entails the attainment of a Postgraduate Engineer qualification, providing candidates with advanced engineering skills tailored to address contemporary challenges such as sustainable future transport and artificial intelligence. This phase, mapped against the Level 7 apprenticeship standard, offers a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the specific research and development needs of employers.

The EngDoc (Phase 2) of the program propels candidates into a transformative journey towards a Research Doctorate project. Operating at Level 8, this phase focuses on applied research within the candidates' respective work activities, fostering innovation and expertise that directly contribute to their organisations' strategic objectives.

Table 1. Program overview.

The decision to amalgamate apprenticeship and doctoral-level education stems from a strategic imperative to cultivate industry experts while advancing individual careers. By integrating academic rigour with practical application, the program endeavours to produce engineering professionals equipped with research-informed knowledge and multidisciplinary skills crucial for driving innovation. Moreover, companies stand to gain from the infusion of disruptive innovation facilitated by research outcomes, thereby enhancing their competitive edge and market share.

Oxford Brookes truly believes that the launch of the Postgraduate Engineer Research and Development Apprenticeship and Engineer Doctorate program heralds a new era in engineering education and professional development. By synergising academic excellence with industry relevance, the program aims to empower a new generation of engineering professionals poised to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

For more information on the program and admission details, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Postgraduate Engineer Research and Development Apprenticeship.

For enquiries, please contact UK Partnerships and Apprenticeships at +44 (0)1865 534900 (option 4) or apprentices@brookes.ac.uk.