University of Cumbria and BAE Systems launch flagship scholarship

The University of Cumbria in partnership with BAE Systems is offering an exclusive and unique scholarship opportunity.

It is for qualifying UK students worth up to £8,000 for those looking to study BEng Mechanical Engineering (with Integrated Foundation Year) or £5,000 for BSc Computer Science at the university’s brand-new Barrow campus, due to open in September.

Eligible students will receive the non-repayable bursaries throughout the duration of their undergraduate studies.

However, the scholarship in partnership with BAE Systems offers much more than financial assistance.

It also provides a transformative opportunity for early career development. Scholarship students will benefit from a 12-week paid placement with BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness, providing invaluable, practical experience in a real-world industry setting.

Upon successful completion of the placement, students will also be guaranteed an interview with BAE Systems, positioning them strongly for a future career in the engineering or technology sectors.

This initiative supports the University of Cumbria’s Towards 2030 strategy and its goal of being a university for and beyond Barrow.

It responds to the growing demand for skills in key infrastructure sectors and invests directly in the region’s workforce pipeline.

Aligned with plans for a new Barrow campus, developed in partnership with BAE Systems, Westmorland & Furness Council, Furness College, and local businesses, the scholarship underscores the role of higher education in driving Barrow’s future.

It aims to serve learners, industry, and the community during this time of transformation across Barrow.

Prof Brian Webster-Henderson OBE, deputy vice chancellor of the University of Cumbria, said: “This is a truly unique opportunity. In partnership with BAE Systems, we are not only supporting our students financially but also opening doors to meaningful industry experience and employment.

"The new campus will support the town’s economic, skills, cultural, and social development, while highlighting Barrow’s vital role in the UK’s plans for growth, security, and public services.

"It represents the kind of high-impact collaboration that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and drives regional opportunity.”

Janet Garner, future workforce director at BAE Systems, said: “We are proud to be working with the University of Cumbria to create real world opportunities for people in the region.

"This scholarship provides more than just financial support – it gives students the chance to develop in-demand skills, work alongside industry experts, and explore meaningful careers in engineering and technology.

"It also opens the door to higher education for individuals who may not have previously seen it as an option.

"It’s great news for Barrow and the surrounding area that higher education provision is expanding, bringing long-term benefits to learners, local employers, and the wider community.”