Digital Degree Apprentice Review

Day to day I am a full time student studying Computer Science at the University of Birmingham. I study alongside all other University of Birmingham Computer Scientists, which involves regular lectures and assessments. We have studied topics such as logic, cyber-security and artificial intelligence. Next year I will be on my placement year working with Vodafone as a developer on their internal applications.

I have extensively developed my Computer Science knowledge in areas such as logic, cyber-security and artificial intelligence. So far, this has improved my proficiency in coding extensively, as well as give me the theoretical knowledge required to progress my studies. This degree apprenticeship has also given me the chance to take degree modules in business and finance to further widen my expertise.

Having the chance to have a real university experience, while also being able to have guaranteed internships and a graduate job, has been amazing. Not only has studying been great fun, but without the pressure to find internships and placements I have been able to make the most of my time at university.

Despite only being the second year that the program has been run, the organisation has been outstanding. Having been faced with an unprecedented situation, Covid-19, Vodafone has ensured that we will still be able to undertake our summer internship while working from home, giving me the opportunity to still gain valuable work experience.

While working on my summer placement I had regular meetings with the programme leader to check how we were getting on and they worked with us to make sure we were always getting the most out of our placements. During our studies Vodafone hasn't needed to get too involved since the university supports us. Despite this they still make sure to check up with us regularly, as well as send us regular news letters to let us know what's going on within Vodafone and make sure we feel like part of the team.

We are treated as regular students of the University of Birmingham Computer Science department, so therefore we get the regular high quality support that is to be expected from a top tier university. Lecturers and support staff are always happy to answer any queries we have and there are great online resources to aid with our learning.

Since I am gaining a full BSc in Computer Science from the University of Birmingham I am very happy with the qualification. The degree directly lends itself to a working environment, and the staff make sure to adjust the teaching so that it is as applicable to the real world as possible.

At the University of Birmingham there are unlimited opportunities for extra-curricular activities, it's one of the best benefits of going to university! There are countless teams and societies hosted by the Guild of Students in anything that you might be interested in, and even if there isn't one you can always make your own!

Yes

This amazing course gives you the opportunity study full time while being able to rely on the security and additional experiences that come from working with Vodafone. Working for Vodafone has enabled me to make the most out of my university experience, both in terms of my academic capability and my person enjoyment.

The interview was challenging but try your best to be calm and confident, it shows off the best you! Even after you do get the offer don't forget the course has tough grade requirements so make sure that you do lots of work for your A-Levels to ace those exams!