The New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) will be developing a new drone-focused undergraduate degree in Autonomous Systems in partnership with the Armed Forces, with the first class expected to enrol in September 2026.
This new three-year degree will lead to a Master's in Engineering (MEng), rather than the more traditional four-year courses, and is expected to produce graduate engineers who are ‘broadly trained, highly effective' and with a specialised focus on drone technologies.
NMITE plans to place strong emphasis on the dual-use potential of drone technologies to equip its students to ‘drive innovation' for civilian and commercial use alongside defence applications.
Minister for the armed forces, Al Carns, said: ‘Through our Strategic Defence Review we are doubling investment in autonomous and uncrewed systems this parliament, putting the UK at the leading edge of innovation in NATO, and training a new generation to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad.'
Chief of the Defence Staff, air chief marshal Sir Richard Knighton, added: ‘Developing skills in autonomous technologies is critical to both defence and the Army. Backed by the British Army, NMITE will train the next generation of drone warfare specialists and help make the Army more lethal in an increasingly dangerous world.'
James Newby, president and CEO of NMITE, said: ‘This partnership demonstrates NMITE's unique ability to move quickly to meet national skills needs. We are proud to be shaping this innovative new degree in Autonomous Systems, one that will not only serve defence priorities but also unlock enormous civilian and humanitarian benefits.'
Jesse Norman MP, co-founder and chair of NMITE, commented: ‘This degree marks an important step forward for NMITE. It will create huge opportunities for our students, bring significant investment into Herefordshire, and support the county's new defence ecosystem, for the benefit of local people and businesses, and the nation as a whole.'
Spearheading the degree is Professor of mechanical engineering and academic lead, Alexandru Stancu, bringing over 25 years of international experience in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems.
An internationally recognised expert in drone and autonomous vehicle technologies, he has secured more than £10m in funding and contributed work that has advanced both the theory and real-world application of autonomy.
Those interested in joining the programme should get in touch to express an interest in applying for a place here.
