Picture a workplace buzzing with fresh ideas, where people from all backgrounds team up to drive innovation. Heriot-Watt University is turning this vision into reality through its wide-ranging programmes designed to enhance employability and support lifelong learning, offering employers a dynamic, skilled workforce ready to meet industry demands.

Founded in Scotland over 200 years ago, Heriot-Watt University has been at the forefront of work-based learning, blending academic study with hands-on experience. With a global community of learners spanning multiple continents, the university offers a suite of flexible, career-focused programmes designed to support learners at every stage of their professional journey, from those starting their careers to experienced professionals looking to upskill or reskill.

A prime example of this tradition is their Graduate Apprenticeship programme, offering fully-funded degrees to learners in Scotland that combine 80 per cent on-the-job learning with 20 per cent academic studies. This model ensures apprentices can immediately apply what they learn, benefiting both their career development and their employer’s success.

However, employability at Heriot-Watt extends far beyond apprenticeships. The university is a leader in online education, with 7,000–8,000 students studying virtually worldwide, and offers a diverse portfolio of qualifications designed to meet the demands of today’s economy.

Russell Brooks, CEO of Heriot-Watt Online, highlights the university’s mission: “For us, the focus has always been on helping employers and industry access the skills they need to grow in high-demand areas.”

Russell and graduate apprentice Fatima Asif share insights with presenter Sangeeta Kandola as part of our Apprenticeships: Unlocking Opportunities programme.

 

The outcomes speak for themselves. Heriot-Watt ranks first in Scotland and second in the UK for undergraduate employability, and it leads the UK in producing graduates who go on to become CEOs or Managing Directors. The university is also quick to adapt to industry changes.

“The world is changing increasingly quickly, so we need to work very closely with industry and employers to understand what other skills students need to complete these programmes,” says Russell. The recent launch of an online MSc in Computer Science, designed for working students and offering an industry micro-credential from a choice of leading tech giants as part of the degree studies, exemplifies this adaptive approach.

Heriot-Watt Online CEO, Russell Brooks.

 

Heriot-Watt fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging students to think critically and creatively. With a focus on research and development, the university is also a hub for cutting-edge ideas and technological advancements.

Moreover, Heriot-Watt’s global presence is a major asset. With five campuses — three in Scotland, one in Dubai, and one in Malaysia — the university offers a diverse, international perspective that’s increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world, equipping graduates with the cultural awareness and adaptability that modern businesses need.

Heriot-Watt Dubai campus
Heriot-Watt Malaysia
The Heriot-Watt campus in Edinburgh
Edinburgh campus
Orkney's campus
The Scottish Borders campus

With a growing number of students exploring different routes to career development, there’s a unique opportunity for businesses to tap into a pool of highly motivated, skilled, and diverse talent.

How Heriot-Watt’s approach benefits employers:

  • Industry-aligned: Programmes are designed in collaboration with industry to ensure students develop the skills most in demand.
  • Enhanced productivity and innovation: Employees applying newly acquired skills in real-time led to increased productivity and efficiency, as they bring fresh perspectives and up-to-date knowledge.
  • Cost-effective talent development: Apprenticeships and online degrees are a cost-effective strategy for upskilling, with government incentives and funding options available to support training initiatives.
  • Improved employee retention: Supporting employees’ education and career progression fosters employee engagement and retention, as individuals feel valued and are more likely to remain with a company that supports their development.

Explore how Heriot-Watt’s Graduate Apprenticeships and online MSc Computer Science can be the bridge to your company’s future success here.