Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) Networks has launched its annual scholarship applications.

For the first time the network has extended the applications to computer and data science students because of the huge digital transformation the business and energy sector is experiencing.

The scholarship is worth £48,000 and consists of a £3000 annual bursary, paid summer placements throughout the duration of the recipient's university course and a one year paid industrial experience.

Recipients of the scholarship will be matched with a company mentor.

Upon graduating, scholars will be employed by NIE Networks, starting on a salary of over £39,000. Scholars are also eligible to apply for the NIE Networks Fast Track Graduate Engineer programme.

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Caron Malone, Head of Transmission Strategy at NIE Networks, said: "We're looking for ground-breaking, forward-thinking engineers who can fit into our team and realise the net zero future for the benefit of the whole of Northern Ireland. As a company we're in a growth period with hundreds of jobs in the pipeline over the next few years. The opportunities that lie ahead for these young people are endless so I would encourage anyone who is eligible to apply for the scheme, it could be the best decision of their careers."

Students in their first year of study on the following courses are eligible to apply:

Queens University (MEng pathway is also open to 2nd years)

• MEng / BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering

• MEng / BEng Computer Engineering

• Computer Science BSc / MEng

• Data Science BSc

Ulster University

• BEng Renewable Energy Engineering (Magee)

• BSc Energy (Belfast)

• BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Magee)

• BSc (Hons) Computer Science (Magee)

Institute of Engineering (IET) Course - Power Academy

• An IET accredited MEng or BEng electrical, electronic or power engineering course at any Power Academy University. NIE Networks is a member of the Power Academy and each year takes a number of Power Academy Scholars.

Applications can be made through NIE Networks' Careers Hub until 11.00pm on the 6 November.