What you will study

AI Data Specialists carry out applied research in order to create innovative data-driven AI solutions to business problems within the constraints of a specific business context. They work with datasets that are too large, too complex, or too varied, which renders traditional approaches and techniques unsuitable.

DMU’s AI Data Specialist apprenticeship programme is particularly well-suited for organisations looking to upskill existing staff and boost digital innovation, and for professionals who want to train for roles such as AI Strategy Managers and AI Engineers. The programme prepares apprentices with industry-standard Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) in AI and Data Analytics. In addition, apprentices are equipped with transferable technical competencies, knowledge and understanding, underpinning professional, leadership and management skills that the industry requires.

Alongside their academic studies, learners will be in full-time employment.,The programme recognises work-based learning and provides learners with opportunities to critically reflect on their learning, both at DMU and in the workplace, allowing them to identify areas where the course has been applied within an industry setting. The teaching and course content are strongly informed by scholarship and research activity across all levels of the programme, with additional guidance provided by the Cyber Technology Institute Industrial Advisory Group at DMU.

Apprentices will start their programme by developing a fundamental understanding of Data Science (DS) Theories and Principles. Apprentices will be able to critically explore the transdisciplinary nature of the AI and DS fields and how it has influenced industries such as banking, healthcare, e-commerce and transportation. Next, the Research Methods for AI and DS module provides grounding for autonomously examining emerging trends, types of industry/research challenges, and applicable methods and tools that can be applied in the areas of AI and DS. The Data Warehousing & Online Analytics and Big Data Analytics modules will then cover topics at the System Architecture level to make strategic decisions for efficiently managing and processing complex data at an industrial scale. The Data Mining, Techniques and Application module and Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning (DL) module will cover industry-standard approaches, methods and tools used to perform various Data Analysis tasks. Subsequently, apprentices will study Natural Language Processing with DL and Applied AI modules developing unique solutions to practical problems.,. Finally, the Apprenticeship Project module will enable apprentices to apply their KSBs, acquired through previous modules, to complete independent work-based practical projects. This Apprenticeship Project will inform the Gateway Requirements and end-point assessment (EPA) components required.

  • Data Science Theory & Principles
  • Research Methods for AI and Data Science
  • Data Warehousing and Online Analytics
  • Big Data Analytics

  • Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning
  • Natural Language Processing based on Deep Learning
  • Applied Artificial Intelligence

  • Apprenticeship Project
  • End-Point Assessment (Including Gateway)

Assessment

The assessment methods and criteria are embedded in the individual modules of the programme. Each module specification defines the assessment methods and reassessment details which are appropriate to the aims and objectives of the module: the choice of the most suitable coursework is dependent on the subject and content of the module. Some modules adopt a combination of a time-constrained phase test and other coursework assessments. Other module assessment methods include projects, reports, posters and presentations. The formal assessment component marks from each module will contribute to your final mark (i.e. classification) of the academic award. The details of these assessments are contained in an Assessment Brief in the respective Module specification documents. Wherever feasible, student assessment work is submitted to the Learning Management System.

Accreditation

AI and Data Specialist Apprenticeship programme aligned to the Level 7 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Specialist Apprenticeship Standard (ST0763) defined by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE).

Entry Requirements

BSc in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Business Data Analytics, Business Information Systems, Software Engineering or Computer Science, graded at 2:2 or higher. Other relevant degrees and qualifications in relevant subjects or industry experiences with AI or Data Analytics fields may also be considered. Apprentices without Level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the endpoint assessment (EPA). For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualifications are an alternative to English qualifications where this is an applicant’s primary language.

All applicants need to be employed by an organisation in the UK (not self-employed) in a role that provides them with experience and exposure to a range of relevant business areas. This will ensure that learners can complete all elements as required by the standards.

In accordance with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) requirements, the programme leader will assess the apprentice’s abilities, in line with the AI Data Specialist standards, with an interview to determine if they require significant new knowledge, skills and behaviours to be occupationally competent in the job role. Prior to the interview, the apprentice will complete two online self-assessment forms with DMU, referred to as the Skills Scan and Eligibility Check, that will provide a baseline of eligibility information and highlight previous learning that may impact the Total Negotiated Price for each learner. The purpose of the interview is to review and moderate the candidate’s self-assessment, identify funding level, assess suitability, and interrogate prior learning. The programme leader will use reports from the Skills Scan and Eligibility Check to assess whether the candidate meets funding rules, discuss areas for clarification, and review the apprentice’s experience set against the apprenticeship standard and expected funding level. Additionally, residency eligibility verification will be part of the due diligence process, based on ESFA eligibility criteria guidelines.

Ready to find out how this programme can benefit you?

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Programme Leader

Dr. Darpan Triboan

With more than five years of teaching experience in Higher Education and more than nine years of research experience in AI and Assisted Living Technologies, Darpan brings a wealth of expertise and passion for nurturing the academic and practical growth of the apprentice’s learning experience with state-of-the-art tools and techniques.

In addition to teaching traditional campus-based students and online students, one of his greatest joys lies in supporting apprentices with work-based learning and empowering them to develop academic competencies and apply theory within the workplace. His teaching philosophy revolves around fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students feel encouraged to explore, question and innovate.

Career pathways and employability

This apprenticeship program is suitable for employees who are responsible or have an interest in managing and processing diverse types of data in private, public and third-sector organisations. Typical roles apprentices will be able to progress on or apply are AI Strategy Manager, AI Engineer, AI Specialist, Director AI, ML Engineer and ML Specialist.

Fees and funding

The programme is aligned to the Level 7 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Specialist Apprenticeship (Non-integrated Degree) apprenticeship standard and is allocated a maximum funding Band (£17,000) by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). Please contact us directly for the price of this apprenticeship.

Take your next steps

If you are an employer

Offering apprenticeships is a great way to attract and retain employees, helping develop their skills and knowledge. If you’re interested in taking on a new apprentice or upskilling existing staff members, contact us to find out more.

If you are an aspiring apprentice

Considering a degree apprenticeship but already employed? Our degree apprenticeships are employer-led, meaning your company invests in your development. Discuss this exciting opportunity with your employer and once you’ve got the go-ahead, contact us to find out more.

If you’d like us to contact your employer on your behalf, just reach out with your employer’s details and permission to contact and we’ll take it from there.

We'll provide clear guidance to both you and your employer, walking you through the application process and everything that comes after.

If you’re not employed you can also find degree apprenticeship vacancies on the National Apprenticeship Service website – it has more apprenticeship vacancies than any other site.

Key facts

Course title

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Specialist Apprenticeship

Award

Level 7

Duration

30 months

Entry requirements

2:2 degree level award or higher in a STEM subject, at least Grade 4/C GCSE Maths, English and IT.

Fees

Maximum funding: £17,000