The University of Cumbria has secured almost £4 million in government funding to help meet critical national skills needs in the defence sector.
The university is among the 24 winners, one of two from the North West, selected from 112 applicants in the competition managed by the Office for Students for the Ministry of Defence.
The award is recognition of the university’s contribution to national defence priorities and regional economic growth.
A mixture of programme and capital funding, it will support the creation of 277 student places in engineering, including robotics and computer science.
The first tranche of funding will be released next month, enabling immediate progress on recruitment and programme delivery.
University of Cumbria’s Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Brian Webster-Henderson OBE said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded this investment to help strengthen the UK defence industry.
“Our collaborative approach will build on existing partnerships with industry leaders such as BAE Systems and our network of further education colleges, ensuring a joined-up pipeline from education into high-value defence careers.
“Together, the partnership strengthens the region’s capacity to meet national skills priorities, which reinforces the University of Cumbria’s role as a key anchor institution and lead delivery partner for higher education in Barrow and beyond.”
The award includes £1.94m in programme funding over five academic years from 2026-27 to 2030-31.
That sits alongside £1.86m in capital investment between 2026 and 2029.
Through this investment, the university will expand and enhance a portfolio of defence-relevant degrees, including:
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering (with Foundation)
- BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BEng (Hons) Robotics and Automation
These programmes will be delivered with a strong employer-led focus, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills required by industry, particularly within the Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
The initiative will play a central role in the ongoing development of Barrow as a hub for advanced skills and innovation.
Working closely with partners including BAE Systems, Defence Nuclear Enterprise organisations, and further education colleges, the university will contribute to a joined-up education and workforce pipeline through the Barrow Learning Quarter.
A key feature of the project is the introduction of Barrow Future Force, a new student engagement model designed to connect learners directly with employers. This will offer industry mentoring, real-world project work, enhanced careers guidance, and access to placements and site-based learning.
The funding will also enable expansion of the infrastructure supporting the Defence Scholarship Scheme, providing financial backing, mentoring and priority access to industry opportunities.
Alongside programme delivery, capital funding will support specialist facilities aligned to robotics, digital technologies and advanced manufacturing.
