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"We see a critical demand in the market to address the skills gap for qualified engineers that exists within key industries in the Middle East. With leading energy and aerospace companies currently importing professionals, market analysts are urging academics to train local talent in an effort to create a knowledge-based economy and reduce recruitment costs,"said Dr. Abdullah Alshamsi, Vice-Chancellor of BUiD.
Systems engineering is an industry-focused discipline with significant relevance for a wide range of sectors, including aviation, manufacturing, transport, energy and logistics. Previously, companies in these sectors have had to look for qualified professionals abroad or sponsor students to train outside the region.
Since the university announced its attention to launch the MSc programme in systems engineering, BUiD has witnessed high levels of interest from an ambitious group of students looking to specialise in several fields, especially from Emirati youth who will form a new generation of professionals in the region.
Globally, there is a perceived shortage of qualified systems engineers, particularly in intensive industries like oil and gas. In fact, a recent study by energy giant BP suggests that the average age of working engineers was almost 50 years old, indicating the urgent need for young professionals.
"Systems engineering provides a fascinating range of career opportunities across a broad range of industries, and we believe the launch of this specialist MSc will provide an important boost for participating professionals. In particular, many of the modules on offer are linked to research projects and students will gain by exposure to an excellent research environment,"said Prof. Robert Whalley, Dean - Faculty of Engineering, The British University in Dubai.
The course of study has been accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education and Scientific Research and approved by the School of Mechanical, Aeronautical and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester.
Posted by Rana Mesbah
