A MASTERS course will allow students to work at Vauxhall and EA Technology in Ellesmere Port.

The University of Chester and MBNA have teamed up to offer the work-based Chester Business Master’s programme, which will allow students to earn a salary worth more than the cost of their training while gaining practical and academic business skills.

Designed to attract and develop top business talent across the region, candidates will be put through a vigorous application process – which includes creating a video CV to be shared on YouTube – but those selected can expect to earn about £8,000 during their work placements, which will more than cover the £5,850 course costs.

During the programme students will complete two 20-week periods of paid placements, accounting for two-thirds of the master’s degree assessment.

Danny Moss, professor of corporate and public affairs at the University of Chester, said: “This is an innovative new programme unlike any other business master’s degree in the UK.

“It allows students to gain invaluable work experience while working toward a master’s degree and, as an added bonus, students are paid a salary that more than covers their course fees.

“A course of this type is a fantastic opportunity for graduates to achieve a great qualification and improve their future job prospects by getting a foot in the door with businesses across the region. I strongly believe the structure of this course will provide the blueprint for the future of master’s degrees in the UK.”

Chester-based credit card lender MBNA is the principal sponsor of the course and will offer up to four placements during the first year. Other companies including Vauxhall Motors, EA Technology, Mornflake and B&S Group Ltd will also be providing graduate placements.

Places for this programme are limited to 15 graduates and the university is only accepting applications until the end of July.

For more about the course or to apply, visit www.chester.ac.uk/cbm. Alternatively, contact Professor Danny Moss by emailing d.moss@chester.ac.uk or calling 01244 511811 or 07595 372722 or contact Lisa Rowe by emailing lisa.rowe@chester.ac.uk or calling 01244 511178.