The University of Reading is Microsoft's flagship UK higher education partner for digital skills, putting every student on a direct path from campus to a career in technology.
The partnership gives every student free access to Microsoft 365 Copilot, a Surface device through the university's device-loan scheme, and a place on the Digital Futures programme — a structured route through Microsoft Learn certifications, Azure cloud training and applied AI projects, built jointly by Reading academics and Microsoft's education team. Students who complete the programme are guaranteed an interview for a Microsoft placement or internship.
A second-year Computer Science student can complete their Azure Fundamentals and AI-900 certifications through the Digital Futures programme in their first two years, then move straight into a 12-month placement on a Microsoft engineering team — walking back into their final year with real production experience most graduates don't get until years into a career.
A partnership like this reaches far beyond software engineering. It touches careers across:
Maya Whitfield, Computer Science student, University of ReadingWalking out of my degree with real Microsoft certifications, not just a grade, is what made this course worth it.
