The University of Canterbury has unveiled new training initiatives aimed at addressing the technology talent deficit in New Zealand. The offering includes three industry skill programmes focusing on data science and AI, cyber security, and software engineering in partnership with the Institute of Data.
These programmes are envisioned to kick off on 15 October, offering students not only the technical skills associated with these tech-driven areas, but also providing essential interpersonal and critical thinking skills that will prepare them for successful careers in the technology sector. The programmes are structured over a six-month period on a part-time basis, following which the participants will receive career support until they secure a role in the industry.
The course structure reflects the industry’s current need for professionals well-equipped with immediate, implementable skills. Peter Harpur, CEO of IoD, emphasized the need for professionals who can be a formidable resource from day one, in contrast with another typical sector model where the onboarding process includes a standard three-month workplace training period.
Highlighting the importance of these new courses, Harpur mentioned even in challenging economic times, there has been a significant increase in the number of tech jobs in New Zealand, further emphasizing the critical need for workers adept in data science, AI, cyber security, and software engineering.
The review published recently demonstrates the effectiveness of IoD’s job outcomes programme as it has helped 96% of Institute of Data graduates who participated to secure a job in the technology industry. The job outcomes programme includes personalized coaching, employment presentations, job application and interview workshops, among others.
The University of Canterbury’s UC Online is not far behind in ensuring their students secure employment. Professor Michael Grimley, Dean of Future Learning and Development, says that these partnerships echo their commitment to the provision of industry-focused, work-ready learning initiatives. He added that the initiative also enhances their ability to support businesses in upskilling their staff.
About the Initiated Programmes:
The Data Science & AI Programme is targeted at IT and non-IT professionals alike, keen on making a shift towards data science, analytics, machine learning, and AI. The programme is centered around practical training, industry certification, and job placement support aiming to help participants secure jobs as Data Analysts or Data Scientists.
The Cyber Security initiative is structured likewise but geared towards preparing individuals for jobs within the cyber security industry. Similarly, the Software Engineering Programme trains individuals keen on transitioning their career into programming, software, web, and UI development, helping them secure jobs within the software industry.
The Institute of Data assists Data Scientists, Cyber Security Analysts, Software Engineers, and Digital Marketers in enhancing their careers for this data-driven world, via its unique, flexible, and practical courses. These include an extensive range from Software Engineering to Data Science and AI, and Cyber Security.
UC Online, over 150 years old and ranked among the top 300 universities worldwide, is now venturing into the space of flexible online learning, providing lifelong learners with opportunities to enhance or shift their careers. Starting with a short course or micro-credential to an online certificate or master’s degree, the options are vast and sound promising.
Applications for these new industry-led programmes are currently open.
