UK delegation travels to India to meet first cohort studying Apollo-Leicester course
A University of Leicester delegation travelled to India to meet the very first cohort of students on a degree which will see them split their studies between the UK and the subcontinent.
In October 2025, more than 40 undergraduates were inducted onto a computer science degree programme which sees them study for two years at The Apollo University (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.
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.
The duo recently jetted to Chittoor to meet the first cohort of students, who are due to come to Leicester to study in 2027.
Professor Sodha and Dr Crole met with TAU’s leadership team, toured teaching and research facilities, and held strategic discussions on how to continue enhancing the student experience across both universities. They also met with parents to discuss the global education and employability opportunities provided to their children though the partnership.
Dr Crole said: “We were genuinely impressed by the enthusiasm, curiosity, and professionalism shown by Apollo’s students. They were a pleasure to converse with, asking many penetrating questions. Their questions reflected not only strong academic foundations but also a real desire to broaden their horizons. Their energy and ambition left a lasting impression on both of us. We are excited to be welcoming them to Leicester for their final‑year studies in 2027.”
He added: “Designing these degrees was always about creating a meaningful and genuinely transformative educational pathway for students. Seeing the partnership with The Apollo University flourish has been incredibly rewarding. Apollo’s commitment to high‑quality teaching and student development aligns perfectly with our vision at Leicester, and the calibre of their students speaks for itself.”
Professor Sodha said: “Our partnership with The Apollo University continues to grow from strength to strength. The collaboration has already brought meaningful benefits to students on both sides, and we are deeply grateful for Apollo’s sustained commitment and support of the programme. Together, we are building a pathway that empowers students to thrive academically, culturally, and professionally in a global community.”