The emphasis is on providing a broadening, not a specialist education. Each delegate undertakes 12 selected modules from the areas of design, manufacture, business and management, plus the major industrially-based research project. The companies provide supporting lecturers and case studies. The operation of the scheme is under continuous review through the joint management process. They may have degrees in Mathematics, Science or Engineering, or hold other appropriate qualifications such as an HND with experience of working as a professional engineer at the graduate level for at least two years.
Special arrangements are now available for non-science graduates to join the scheme.
Each taught module is available as a short course, normally of one-week duration. It consists of approximately 35 contact hours including lectures, demonstrations, visits, laboratory, tutorial and case-study work. The emphasis is on industrial applications and shared work experience. Eminent speakers on specialist topics are provided. Study methods used include distance learning, video and computer-based approaches.