Employer-Led Accreditation Signals New Era for Technology and Education in UK Universities

Salford Business School Achieves Dual Accreditation for Industry-Ready Degrees

Universities are constantly adapting to advancing demands of the global market in their bid to prepare their students for the employment requirements and, in line with this, Employer-recognised accreditation signals an increasing shift in education towards aligning programmes to industry standards so that graduates are equipped with relevant practical skills, verified competencies and real-world readiness to meet the evolving demands of the modern workforce. In line with this, Salford University, UK, has become the first institution in the country to receive Tech Industry Gold accreditation for its Business Management Course, marking a significant milestone in employer-recognised teaching excellence. The accreditation, awarded by TechSkills, also applies to Salford’s Business IT programme, positioning both degrees under the only employer-led standard for technology and education in the UK.

Following a panel presentation on 16 July, the Business IT degree was granted full accreditation immediately. The Business Management Bachelor's programme was initially approved with conditions, which have since been fully met, making it the first of its kind in the UK to achieve this recognition. Students enrolled in these accredited programmes will receive a Tech Industry Gold digital credential, a verified badge that can be used in CVs or LinkedIn profiles to showcase skill sets valued within the industry. These credentials are issued through Credly, the world's largest digital credentialing platform, which includes detailed descriptions of verified competencies. The initiative is geared towards career guidance and enhancing visibility in a competitive job market.

The accreditation deepens learning experiences via live projects, guest lectures, and networking with senior professionals from the business and industry. These activities are designed to enhance student engagement and to ensure graduates tackle real-life challenges in technology management, cybersecurity degree pathways, and more general business roles. According to TechSkills data, 86% of Tech Industry Gold graduates are employed within 18 months of graduation, significantly higher than the national average of 73% across all UK degrees. The median salary for these graduates stands at £27,000, placing them among the top earners outside of medicine, veterinary science, and engineering. Furthermore, 84% of graduates from accredited programmes achieve a First or 2:1 classification, reflecting strong academic performance.

The programmes also demonstrate a commitment to diversity, with 35% of graduates identifying as BAME, one of the highest rates across UK higher education. This aligns with Salford’s broader goals of inclusive education and widening participation across UK colleges and universities. The accreditation process was led by Dr. Maria Kutar, Director of Undergraduate Business at Salford's Business School, and this commendation testifies to the strength of its curriculum in aligning with industry needs, thoughts, and wants. It is further supported by Liz Larner, Deputy Dean, stating that this achievement resonates with the strategic priorities of the school and anticipates positively impacting student outcomes and institutional change.

Dr. Lorna Willis, CEO of TechSkills, applauded Salford's collaboration and forward thinking. She mentioned that this accolade was earned through a painstaking employer-driven process, which is governed by senior leaders from organisations such as IBM. Adding further, she said that the thrust was on how partnerships can drive quality education technology and prepare learners for business life in a tech-driven environment. Moving forward, Salford Business School will continue to work with TechSkills and its network of employers to engender further enrichment in the student journey through planned activities such as induction sessions, industry events, and real-world projects, all underscored by the University's commitment to innovation and excellence in higher education. Thus, this achievement ensures that Salford University, UK, stands at the forefront of modern education in academic rigour and relevance to industry characteristics in supporting student success.

Editor’s Note

The groundbreaking recognition of Salford University marks an important moment for higher education in the UK, as it becomes the first institution to receive Tech Industry Gold accreditation for its Business Management Course. The award, also granted to Salford’s Business IT programme, reflects a growing shift towards employer-led standards in education, where academic content is closely aligned with the skills and expectations of today’s industries. The accreditation brings clear benefits for students. It offers verified digital credentials, issued through Credly, that help graduates showcase their practical skills and competencies to future employers. It also introduces valuable enrichment activities such as live projects, guest lectures, and networking with professionals from business and industry, helping students prepare for real-world challenges in areas like technology management and cybersecurity. According to TechSkills, high employment rates and better academic performance have been associated with programs that are accredited. Nearly one in six of those included - 86% of them - are in a job 18 months after completing their program, with a median salary of £27,000. Programmes are also a complement to diversity; 35% of graduates identify as BAME, which is among the highest rates in UK higher education. Such an accomplishment, driven by Business School, Salford, demonstrates how universities should respond to shifting global requirements by introducing academically rigorous and industry-relevant courses. It serves as a strong model for the other UK colleges and universities that hope to gain more learner student outcomes and career readiness.

Skoobuzz believes that this accreditation is not just another achievement for Salford, but it is a broader and clear indication that universities need to adopt a practical, inclusive and forward-looking strategy for their students. Salfordians are not only academically excellent, but they are now ready for dynamic, tech-driven industries where adaptability, digital fluency, and real-world problem-solving are essential.

FAQs

1. What is the Tech Industry Gold Accreditation at the University of Salford? 

Tech Industry Gold accreditation is an employer-recognised standard awarded by TechSkills. It confirms that Salford University UK’s Business Management and Business IT programmes meet industry expectations for teaching quality, practical skills, and career readiness. The accreditation is governed by senior leaders from major organisations such as IBM.

2. How does Salford University’s business management course benefit students? 

Students on the accredited Business Management course receive a digital credential that showcases their verified skills to employers. They also gain access to live projects, guest lectures, and networking opportunities with industry professionals, helping them prepare for real-world business challenges.

3. Which undergraduate degrees at Salford University are accredited?

Salford University, UK, currently holds Tech Industry Gold accreditation for two of its undergraduate programmes: the Business Management Bachelor's and the Business IT (Information Technology) degree. Both courses have been formally recognised under the employer-led Tech Industry Gold standard, confirming their alignment with industry expectations for teaching quality, practical skills, and career readiness.

4. Why is the University of Salford a top choice for business and technology studies?

Salford University combines academic rigour with practical, employer-led learning. Its accredited programmes offer strong career outcomes, with 86% of graduates employed within 18 months and a median salary of £27,000. The University also supports diversity and innovation in education technology.

5. What career guidance does Salford University offer for tech and business students?

Students benefit from structured career support, including digital credentials, industry events, employer-led projects, and mentoring. These activities are designed to improve employability and help students build connections in the business and technology sectors.

6. What makes Tech Industry Gold accreditation important for UK colleges and universities?

Tech Industry Gold accreditation is important because it bridges the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. It ensures that degree programmes meet employer-led standards, helping universities deliver practical, up-to-date education. This recognition improves graduate outcomes, boosts employability, and supports national goals for innovation and workforce readiness across UK colleges and universities.

7. How does Salford University support student employability in business and technology fields?

Salford University supports student employability by offering accredited programmes that include real-world projects, guest lectures, and networking with industry professionals. Students also receive digital credentials that highlight their verified skills, making them more visible to employers. These activities help learners build confidence, gain experience, and prepare for careers in business, technology management, and cybersecurity.