Funding for Data Science programme

Data Science at Exeter receives substantial funding boost

The University of Exeter has received a substantial funding boost to help cement its position as one of the UK’s leading centres for data science.

The University has been awarded almost £200,000, announced today by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), to enhance its innovative Data Science programme.

The funding will enable the University’s new Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence to develop new undergraduate and postgraduate courses, from September 2018.

Exeter will work in partnership with a host of multinational companies such as IBM and British Telecom, as well as local employers such as the Met Office to co-develop new modules within the programme to address some of the greatest challenges faced in the burgeoning field of data science.

Crucially, the project will form a crucial strand of the high-profile regional strategy to develop the city of Exeter as a national centre for data analytics.

The funding will also be used to fund outreach and curriculum enrichment activities with local schools, and colleges and to secure guaranteed work placements for all participating students.

Professor Mark Goodwin, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) said: “I’m delighted that the University’s role in driving forward the national industrial strategy has been recognised through the award of this grant. Working with schools, colleges and employers like the Met Office, we have the opportunity to make Exeter a national centre for excellence in data science.

“To achieve this, we need to attract the brightest talent and to enable young people from the region to gain the skills that will be needed by the exciting companies attracted to our city and Science Park.”

Exeter is one of 30 universities and colleges nationwide that will receive a share of HEFCE’s £6 million funding to the development of new and enhanced higher education courses.

Each successful bidder has been awarded up to £200,000 from HEFCE’s Catalyst Fund programme, with additional investment provided by the universities and colleges involved, employers and other partners.

HEFCE Chief Executive, Professor Madeleine Atkins, said:  “This investment represents important support for the government’s Industrial Strategy. The funding will provide new courses and vital skill developments in key industrial sectors across the country, from which students, the workforce and employers all stand to benefit.”

Date: 23 January 2018