The University of Hull is aiming to address a critical engineering skills gap in the Humber region – and a new laboratory will also be created
The University of Hull has announced plans to make a major investment in engineering education and infrastructure, backed by a £2.4m grant. The university aims to tackle a critical engineering skills gap in the Humber region through the launch of new civil engineering programmes from next year – a move which will also see the region play its part in strengthening the UK’s clean energy ambitions.
Supported by the multimillion-pound sum from the Office for Students (OfS), the new engineering courses – which will start in September 2026 – follow on from the Hull and East Yorkshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which highlighted an urgent need for engineering construction skills.
It is also investing in a new state-of-the-art engineering laboratory to support the new programmes. Developed in collaboration with industry, the programmes are designed to support the development of a skilled workforce to drive regional growth.
Professor John Craig, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education at the University, said: “As the needs of our students and the world around us evolve, we’re committed to leading change by designing inclusive, agile courses that prepare graduates to be innovators and problem-solvers. Our new programmes reflects this vision, equipping learners to address regional priorities and at the same time investing in the skills and infrastructure needed to support the Humber’s clean energy future.
“This investment reflects our shared ambition with local stakeholders to build a resilient, skilled workforce capable of driving the region’s clean energy future.”
The Humber plays a key role in national energy production, generating more than 20 per cent of the UK’s energy, hosting 35 per cent of its offshore wind capacity, and managing a fifth of all natural gas imports. However, the region faces significant environmental challenges, including being home to the UK’s second most flood-susceptible city and fastest eroding coastline.
Professor Mark Anderson, Interim Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, said: “It has always been our vision to establish this course, but OfS funding allows us to take that vision further, creating a high-quality learning environment that ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one. These new programmes will equip students with the expertise to thrive in a rapidly evolving sector and contribute meaningfully to the UK’s clean energy ambitions.”
The funding is part of an allocation of £88.5m of capital funding by the OfS to Universities and colleges across England. Successful bids had to demonstrate how they will address the Government’s Industrial Strategy and priority sectors for growth, or meet the needs of local employers and regional economies.
OfS Director of Resources and Finance, Nolan Smith, added: “This was a very competitive funding round, and the projects we are supporting will make a tangible difference to current and future students. As well as expanding opportunities for students in strategically important subject areas, these projects will offer a boost to local and regional economies and promote national growth.”
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