The University of Lincoln has partnered with Microsoft to offer a new cloud computing course, in a bid to close a skills gap currently impacting the UK market.

Part of a Shared Goals Agreement between the two parties, the MSc in Cloud Computing (a first in the UK) aims to prepare a new generation of workers for roles such as cloud developers, solution architects, DevOps and data specialists.

The course was created to resolve a digital skills course that businesses across the UK fear could impact their profitability. A recent report from the Learning & Work Institute found that 82% of job vacancies today ask for digital skills, and that 27% of businesses say their staff members need ‘advanced’ skills. Furthermore, 60% of businesses expect their need for advanced digital skills to rise over the next five years.

However, 37% of businesses say their current workforce lacks these advanced digital skills. A further 76% said the skills gap would likely impact their profitability.

Now, Microsoft and the University of Lincoln have teamed up to address these specific issues, by offering a Masters-level degree that runs for one year full time or two years part time.

The course itself will cover the broad concepts of cloud computing, but also provide an opportunity for students to develop practical skills around cloud architectural design, development and deployment. Modules include Advanced Cyber Security, Advanced Machine Learning and Frontiers of Computer Science Research.

Students will be able to attain industry-recognised certification badges as part of the course, including Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals and Microsoft Azure Administrator, in order to further boost their employability and knowledge of the industry at large.

Launching the course, Director of Education at Microsoft, Chris Rothwell, said: “The UK urgently needs more people with the right digital skills to help businesses unlock the power of technology and help them thrive. The inclusion of industry-recognised Microsoft certifications, such as Azure Data Fundamentals and Azure Administrator, allows students to showcase their knowledge to potential employers.”

Entry to the course is now open for 2021/22 and 2022/23.