In today's ever-competitive job market, employers are continually seeking new and innovative ways to invest in the growth and development of their workforce.
One approach that has gained significant attention is Qwasar’s groundbreaking initiative, the Dual Apprenticeship - Master’s of Computer Science Program, a two-year journey that not only transitions an apprentice into a full-time employee but also equips them with a master's degree. Combining an apprenticeship with a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) degree is a unique opportunity to gain both the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for a successful career in the tech industry.
Qwasar's Master's Program is offering an innovative and intensive learning experience that bridges the gap between education and the real-world job environment.
Areas of apprenticeship specialization that can be integrated with a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) include:
- Backend Software Engineering
- Embedded Engineering
- AI/Machine Learning Engineering
- Full Stack Development
Combining Apprenticeships with a MSCS
Learners who merge an apprenticeship with an MSCS degree will acquire the same foundational principles in computer science courses as their counterparts in traditional MSCS programs. However, the combination of on-the-job learning with a degree-based curriculum provides a unique opportunity to apply recently learned skills, theory, and technologies on the job. This will allow them to gain the deep expertise they need to be successful in their chosen field.
Unlike traditional MSCS programs, which often rely heavily on theoretical knowledge transfer through lectures and exams, our program adopts a modern, skills-centered, proficiency-driven, project-oriented approach. This unique model incorporates components like project-based work, daily standups, pair programming, peer code reviews, and technical and behavioral interviews, ultimately reducing the gap between industry position demands and graduates’ resumes.
Our curriculum reflects an 85% emphasis on coding over traditional lectures, ensuring that students learn by doing - something that fits very well for those in an apprenticeship. The modern approach not only equips them with a deeper understanding of computer science concepts but also enables them to develop the practical skills and competencies demanded by the tech industry.
The combination of an apprenticeship and a degree has been around for decades, but has mostly been limited to Europe. However, America is seeing an increasing trend in this area, and given the skill level demanded in the tech industry and where trends are headed, in our opinion, it made sense to combine an apprenticeship with a Master’s in Computer Science.
A Dual Apprenticeship - Master's: How it Works
The apprenticeship program at Qwasar follows a structured timeline that combines practical work experience with academic development. Candidates are chosen for the program based on their successful completion of a technical evaluation. This very often includes those with a Bachelor’s in Computer Science who lack the on-the-job skills required to succeed - they simply haven’t spent enough time actually programming, problem solving, debugging, and working in a professional engineering environment.
Once selected, the apprentices commence a conventional apprenticeship program encompassing a rigorous 3-month training period characterized by specialized technical instruction closely tailored to match the industry requirements of their respective employer. Following this intensive training period, the apprentice seamlessly transitions into the employer's engineering team, embarking on an extended 9-12 months of on-the-job (OTJ) learning within the industry.
However, what sets this program apart is the concurrent pursuit of a Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS). During the 9-12 months of work-and-learning, 10% of the apprentice's time is allocated to coursework specifically tailored for the MSCS degree. Credit will be given for any applicable coursework that apprentices complete during their apprenticeship. Coursework is delivered online and is part-time, allowing the apprentice to essentially continue working a full-time job while doing part-time studies. This dual approach ensures that apprentices not only gain valuable real-world experience but also make progress toward a recognized academic qualification.
The part-time MSCS program itself spans a duration of two years, with classes held on Tuesday evenings and Saturdays, making it accessible for working professionals. Following the conclusion of their apprenticeship, individuals continue their studies at their own pace during personal time, attending classes on Tuesdays and Saturdays until they have successfully accumulated the required credit hours. This integrated approach enables apprentices to seamlessly transition from hands-on training to academic growth, ensuring they emerge from the program with a wealth of practical skills and a reputable degree, positioning them as competitive candidates in the job market and offering a pathway for long-term career success. Graduates become well-rounded professionals with a master's degree and significant real-world experience, positioning them as highly appealing candidates for leadership roles, including Principal or Distinguished Engineers, Senior Managers, Directors, or VPs.
A Dual Apprenticeship - Master's Reduces Risk Compared to All Other Non-Master's Candidates
A dual apprenticeship-Master's program is a strategic approach that effectively reduces risk in comparison to other non-Master's candidates in the job market, particularly for companies who struggle with a consistent and reliable talent pipeline. The program is a forward-thinking approach to workforce development that provides a clear and certain path for apprentices while de-risking their journey for both employers and employees.
It goes beyond the scope of a traditional internship, setting higher expectations for apprentices in terms of technical skill levels. This approach pivots towards applied skills and on-the-job capabilities, avoiding the conventional emphasis on exams and theoretical knowledge. The intensive focus on skills, applied competencies, and the cultivation of a high coding IQ sets apprenticeships apart from other educational pathways, significantly decreasing the risk of hiring sub-optimal candidates, including ones with a Bachelor’s of Computer Science!
Moreover, this model opens doors for companies to upskill and onboard individuals transitioning from internships, those with Bachelor's degrees in Computer Science, and also serves as a pathway to tap into non-traditional talent pools. In addition, dual apprenticeships offer employers the ability to host apprentices while not having to bear the full costs of starting and maintaining the program themselves.
Using a Dual Apprenticeship - Master's to Find Great Engineering Talent
Some engineering roles are notoriously difficult to hire for. Companies end up competing for a small pool of talent and paying high salaries, or just losing out if they don’t have big budgets. A dual apprenticeship-Master’s setup can help to alleviate this problem.
In a rapidly evolving job market, the dual apprenticeship-Master's model provides a strategic advantage by facilitating the acceptance of "almost-there" candidates who may not meet all the requirements on a skills list but show immense potential. This makes apprentices a desirable talent pool for employers, as they can be confident that apprentices have the skills and experience necessary to be successful in their roles.
Qwasar’s advanced engineering apprenticeships cover non-traditional subject areas for apprenticeships: embedded engineering, AI/machine learning, backend software engineering (C/C++/Rust/Go), and DevOps/Cloud engineering. Combined with a Master’s program, this means companies can find and hone engineering talent that may not fit conventional hiring processes but who will thrive and provide high value contributions to engineering teams.
The Qwasar Difference: A Modern Approach to Learning
Qwasar's approach to Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) education stands out by emphasizing practical, hands-on learning over the traditional, theory-heavy approach. This shift is particularly advantageous for individuals who may not have thrived in traditional education, offering a more engaging and applied learning experience.
It not only proves more effective for many learners, but also equips them with the practical skills and real-world experience sought after by the modern tech industry, addressing the dynamic demands of the field.
Qwasar's program emphasizes project-based work, regular standups, pair programming, peer code reviews, and technical and behavioral interview. This unique approach emphasizes coding over lectures - allocating 85% of the curriculum to coding and 15% to lectures.
Find Out More About the Dual Apprenticeship - Master's Program
Qwasar's Dual Apprenticeship-Master’s of Computer Science Program challenges the conventions of traditional MSCS programs, recognizing that becoming a proficient software engineer extends beyond lectures and exams. By integrating the traditional apprenticeship model with advanced education, it offers a distinctive and highly effective pathway to cultivating a skilled and capable workforce, presenting countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Employers interested in this exciting opportunity or seeking additional information, please visit our website: https://qwasar.io/what-sets-us-apart/
