The two-year course, which is being set up by Ecoconsultancy, is aimed partly at people from traditional publishing backgrounds who want to learn new skills to equip them for the digital age.

Developed in conjunction with Manchester Metropolitan University, the new postgraduate diploma will launch in September with applications being accepted now.

It is designed to equip students with the skills to enable them to lead the delivery of a commercial digital publishing operation.

Commenting on the diploma, Tim Tucker former group senior editor of Future Publishing, said: "Everyone is aware of how quickly the face of publishing is changing and this qualification recognises the need for high quality education and training in the digital aspects of the profession.

"If the publishing industry is to survive, it needs skilled, dynamic professionals who understand how to deliver content in innovative and accessible ways."

Craig Hanna, training director at Econsultancy, added: "It is particularly pertinent that this qualification is being launched at a time when traditional publishing models are struggling. This course has been developed to an extremely high academic standard which means that those completing the diploma will hold a strong competitive edge over their peers."

For more information visit the Ecoconsultancy website or contact Econsultancy at training@econsultancy.com or 0207 681 4099.