BAE Systems and University of Portsmouth Launch UK’s First Space Engineering Degree Apprenticeship

Insider Brief:

• BAE Systems and the University of Portsmouth have collaborated to launch a degree apprenticeship program in space engineering.
• The engineering degree program will include immersive learning experiences in space science and mission design at BAE Systems’ Alton and Guildford facilities.
• Applications close on February 28, 2024.
• Image credit: BAE Systems

BAE Systems and the University of Portsmouth have collaborated to launch a degree apprenticeship program in space engineering. The innovative four-and-a-half-year course will combine academic rigour with practical skill-building, aiming to cultivate the next generation of talent for the burgeoning space sector.

The program’s design has been developed through the collaborative efforts of government representatives, space sector leaders, and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education and will include immersive learning experiences in space science and mission design at BAE Systems’ Alton and Guildford facilities.

Among the projects successful candidates will work on is Azalea, which is slated to deploy its maiden multi-sensor low earth orbit satellite cluster in 2025. With a primary objective of furnishing militaries with real-time intelligence, Azalea represents a significant stride toward enhancing national security capabilities.

Doug Liddle, Director of BAE Systems’ digital intelligence business, underscored the pivotal role of this initiative in addressing the prevalent skills gap within the space sector, as reported by the BBC. He emphasized the imperative of nurturing and investing in budding space engineers to fortify the UK’s position as a formidable force in space science and technology, echoing the sentiment that “the sky is no longer the limit.”

Professor Djamel Ait-Boudaoud, Executive Dean at the University of Portsmouth, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the criticality of collaboration between academia and industry in meeting the evolving demands for skilled professionals. With space technology identified as a strategic priority for the university, Prof. Ait-Boudaoud affirmed their steadfast commitment to driving forward space initiatives, positioning Portsmouth at the vanguard of space education and research.

Applications close on February 28, 2024.

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