India students sign up for new computer science degree that spans two continents

Students in India have made history after embarking on a new degree which will see them split their studies between The Apollo University (TAU), in the subcontinent, and the University of Leicester.

More than 40 undergraduates have been inducted onto a computer science degree programme which sees them study for two years at TAU in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India, with the opportunity to progress to their final year and graduation at the University of Leicester.

After successful completion of their studies, students can choose from computer science degrees in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science or Software Engineering at Leicester. The articulation pathway also offers students on the programme the option to pursue a one-year master’s degree in their chosen computing discipline.

The programme reflects the strengthening academic partnership between the University and TAU. TAU operates under the Apollo Hospitals Educational and Research Foundation (AHERF), which drives the group’s academic and research initiatives.

Leicester’s two lead academics on the programme are Professor Leena Sodha, Head of the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and Roy Crole, Associate Professor in the School. From The Apollo University, the programme is being led by Dr D Jagadeesan, Professor and Dean, and Dr T Vivekanandan, Associate Professor in the School of Technology.

Professor Henrietta O’Connor, Provost & Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Leicester, addressed the first cohort of students during an induction session held earlier this month.

She said: “You’ll graduate with a University of Leicester degree – a globally recognised qualification that opens doors around the world.  You are trailblazers and will illuminate the path for those who follow you. We’re proud to be part of your journey and look forward to seeing all that you’ll achieve.

“We provide global skills through a global education for an international mindset. What you will learn is more than knowledge gleaned from books – you will acquire life skills that will empower you. Transferable skills like critical thinking, creativity, innovation and leadership. Practical skills that equip you to become a global citizen.”

Dr Vinod Bhat, Vice Chancellor of The Apollo University, said: “My dream is to see TAU become a crucible of global excellence, and this partnership with the University of Leicester is a major step towards fulfilling this ambition. Education is no longer bounded by walls, but is about building bridges across nations.”

The MOU between Apollo and Leicester sets out a vision for collaboration in the fields of healthcare management, healthcare and data science, using cutting-edge research and enabling education opportunities. It aims to harness the power of artificial intelligence, tackle global healthcare challenges, and support global workforce development initiatives to address skills shortages in both the UK and India.