University-industry teaching collaborations: a case study of the MSc in structural integrity co-produced by Brunel University London and The Welding Institute

Abstract

© 2016 The Author(s). The paper presents an evaluation of an MSc in Structural Integrity co-produced by Brunel University London and industry partner The Welding Institute (TWI), designed to supply ‘work-ready’ graduates. Pre-, mid- and post-course quantitative surveys were administered to students, and two mid-term focus groups were conducted. Pre- and post-course quantitative surveys were administered to industry supervisors. 77% students chose the MSc because it was co-designed with industry. Student expectations of the course and skills attainment were largely met; hopes for employment decreased due to a downturn in the oil and gas industry; industry supervisors were ‘bridging scientists’ between Brunel and TWI (Subramanian, Lim, and Soh 2013) for largely altruistic reasons. The paper concludes being ‘work-ready’ is composed of technical and ‘soft’ skills, employer engagement being important for the latter. It recommends integrating group-placed students with industry employees, including within social spaces; and tax incentives for employers engaging with postgraduate training provision.