The University of Birmingham has launched a new digital degree apprenticeship scheme.
It combines a bachelor of science degree in computer science with a technology apprenticeship at Vodafone for 16 students.
During the four-year study period, the apprentices will receive a salary and take part in a ten-week summer placement in their first year and a 12-month industrial placement in their third year.
They are also guaranteed a job in one of the telecommunication firm's digital teams once they graduate in 2022.
Professor Andy Schofield, head of the college of engineering and physical sciences at the university, said: "We believe that, in order to prepare our students for a 21st century workplace, it is essential to build their digital skills and give them the best possible opportunities in which to use them.
"The four-year programme we are launching will provide our students with both the digital education and critical hands-on training they will need to succeed in a digital future.
"As a world leader for research and innovation, we are delighted to be partnering with Vodafone to address the º£½ÇÊÓƵ's technology skills gap and educate the digital talent of the future."
Adam Parsons, HR director at Vodafone º£½ÇÊÓƵ, added: "Digital sectors like artificial intelligence, cloud services and the internet of things represent exciting opportunities for the º£½ÇÊÓƵ economy.
"The education programme we have created will help us to make the most of these opportunities, enabling university students to develop new skills and prepare for a digital future."
