Upskilling or changing career? Check Portsmouth Uni for skills bootcamps, courses & lectures this autumn

September marks the start of the crisp sea air in the mornings, and the city basking in the warm golden glow of the softer Autumn light as the leaves on the trees start to change their colours. Foxes Forest around Hilsea Lines looks particularly beautiful; the old woodland, moats, and historic fortifications are framed by trees turning rich shades of gold and red – it’s a great spot for a seasonal walk.

September also sees the start of a flurry of activity on your local University campus, for both our undergraduate students and those within the local community looking to progress or change their careers.

Some of the most exciting (and free) opportunities include; part-time Executive Education courses in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Software Development, postgraduate Senior Leader Apprenticeship, and the Autumn Public Lecture series.

Executive education courses

The University of Portsmouth’s Skills Bootcamps offer free, flexible training designed to help you gain in-demand skills that local employers are actively looking for. Whether you're looking to retrain, upskill, or move in a whole new direction, our 12-week part-time courses offer practical, hands-on experience to build your confidence and future-proof your career.

They have partnered with Solent Growth Partnership to offer two specialist Skills Bootcamps:

- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Learn how to deploy machine learning, understand what AI can really do, and apply these innovations to real-world challenges in business, tech, healthcare, and more.

- Software Development – Fast-track your way into tech. Gain practical skills in web development, programming, data handling, and agile project delivery.

You can find out more at https://go.port.ac.uk/Skills

Senior leader apprenticeship

Earn while you learn and lead while you grow.

Unlock your potential with this flexible, industry-led postgraduate Senior Leadership Apprenticeship. Designed for mid to senior-level managers, it equips you to apply your insight in real-world business environments, strengthening your impact across your organisation and industry networks.

With major changes to government funding, the University’s December 2025 course is your last chance to take advantage of this amazing opportunity. Visit the website at https://go.port.ac.uk/leader or email [email protected] to arrange a chat with the course leader.

Autumn public lecture series

Join the audience for an exciting series of events that bring research from across the University of Portsmouth into real-world contexts. Whether you're a curious mind or a lifelong learner, there's something for everyone from Japanese architecture to football finance, pop culture in Portsmouth to the mysteries of DNA.

You can find out what’s on and book your place at https://go.port.ac.uk/lectures