University and Rolls-Royce collaborate on innovative new AI degree

A new ‘first of its kind’ degree equipping students with the skills needed for a career in international business and artificial intelligence has been developed by the University of Derby and global industry giant Rolls-Royce.

The two-year accelerated BSc (Hons) International Business and AI programme has been created in response to demand from industry leaders and aims to fast-track students; equipping them with the skills required for work of both today and the future.

It will be available to study from September 2025 and focuses on the real-world application of AI – and the realities of business in an AI-enabled world.

Dr Nicola Lynch, head of the university’s Derby Business School, which is set to move into the new £70 million Cavendish Building in Derby later this year, said: “We are delighted to be further strengthening our partnership with Rolls-Royce, working collaboratively to understand what our country and world needs to grow, and to develop the practical skills and future talent to help us meet those requirements.”

Stuart Evans, people director – future of work, capability and learning at Rolls-Royce, said: “I am excited that we’ve been able to extend our partnership with the University of Derby.

“Combining a fresh approach to traditional learning with the practical skills needed to succeed in the modern world of work will deliver meaningful value for students, employers and the university alike. It’s an absolute privilege to be revolutionising education in this space.”

As part of the new degree, students will have the opportunity to develop technical skills with an emphasis on intellectual growth and, by integrating AI with international business, they will develop skills needed to thrive in global markets where traditional practices are no longer sufficient.

Dr Mustabsar Awais, course leader and senior lecturer in financial economics at the University of Derby, said: “As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and disrupts traditional business models, there is a need for graduates with the skills and ambition to design the world of the future.

“This exciting, accelerated learning degree will equip students with the skills to apply advanced technological solutions to today’s business problems, drive forward innovation and gain valuable experience for their CVs.

“We are delighted to be working with world-leading brand Rolls-Royce to power the next generation and future workforce.”

Throughout the two years, students will cover topics such as managing big data, the global economy and the fundamentals of business analytics and AI, giving them an applied, real-world learning experience.

They will also have the chance to take part in immersive activities and live briefs with Rolls-Royce to gain valuable insight into the world of business.

The new degree builds on an existing strong relationship the university has with Rolls-Royce.

The two organisations already work together on several world-class projects including the Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby.

Dr Lynch said: “Industry engagement is critical to the University of Derby, providing solutions to social and industrial challenges by delivering academic expertise, innovation and knowledge.

“We believe in the transformational power of education and our mission is to develop a pipeline of student and graduate talent with the skills to improve business services and communities all around the world.

“We are delighted to be partnering on such a unique and exciting programme, which we hope will provide students with a range of practical business and thought leadership skills, making them well placed for a range of high-quality graduate roles.”