UC Online partners with IoD for new tech skill courses

The University of Canterbury's online division, UC Online, has entered into a partnership with the Institute of Data (IoD) to offer three new courses aimed at bridging the technology skills gap in New Zealand.

The collaboration introduces industry-focused programmes in Data Science and AI, Cyber Security, and Software Engineering, designed to prepare students for a career in the technology sector. The part-time courses commence on 15 October and provide ongoing career support to ensure successful job placement in the industry.

Peter Harpur, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute of Data, emphasised the importance of these courses in meeting industry demands. "The courses were designed to rapidly train mid-career professionals with the skills that industry need right now. Feedback from employers is that IoD certified professionals have valuable skills and are able to make a difference immediately, whereas other graduates can take up to three months of on the job training," Harpur stated.

Despite economic challenges, Harpur highlighted that the NZ Tech organisation reported 3,560 new technology roles in 2023. He also noted the difficulty in finding workers who possess the necessary skills to contribute immediately in areas such as data science, AI, cyber security, and software engineering. "We're thrilled to be working with the University of Canterbury's UC Online team to train mid-career professionals that would not otherwise consider going back to university," he said.

Harpur further commented on the employment landscape, saying, "It's increasingly difficult to secure employment in the current job market, but IoD graduates are adept in the latest technologies and are a step ahead of other job applicants." He also referred to a recent review showing high success in employment for IoD graduates: "96% of Institute of Data graduates who participated in our job outcomes programme secured a job in the technology industry." The job outcomes programme includes personalised coaching and job application support, among other benefits.

From the University of Canterbury side, Professor Michael Grimley, Dean of Future Learning and Development, spoke on the significance of this partnership. "We're excited for this partnership," said Grimley, "as it demonstrates our commitment to work-ready, industry-led learning. These industry training programmes complement our existing flexible learning options as well as enhance our ability to support businesses in upskilling their staff."

The courses cater to both IT and non-IT professionals interested in transitioning their careers. The Data Science and AI Programme covers topics such as analytics and machine learning, with job placement support to help secure roles as Data Analysts or Data Scientists. The Cyber Security Programme offers similar pathways into the cyber security sector, while the Software Engineering Programme prepares participants for roles in programming and software development.