Skills gap
A new programme addresses the shortage of engineers
"The average age of working engineers internationally is almost 50 years old," says Professor Robert Whalley, dean of engineering at the British University in Dubai (BUiD).
"And this clearly indicates the need for young professionals. And unless we train youth in the UAE, companies will continue to employ individuals from overseas who are constantly competing with the local market."
To respond to the regional and global demand for qualified systems engineers, BUiD is launching a Masters in Systems Engineering. The new programme, developed in partnership with the University of Manchester in the UK, will focus on the analysis, design, diagnostics and control of industrial electro-mechanical systems using modern computer-based techniques.
Electric engineering, chemical engineering and civil engineering are all fields probably familiar to you. However, what about a field that combines all areas of engineering? From the construction of skyscrapers to the programming of computers, systems engineering touches upon all areas of engineering.
Shortage of engineers
According to Whalley, there is a perceived global shortage of qualified systems engineers, particularly in intensive industries such as oil and gas. The aim of the programme is to increase the number of local professionals to meet industry needs.
"We see huge potential in creating this course to address both the skills gap that currently exists within the Middle East engineering sector and also to create vital employment opportunities for Emirati youth," said Dr Abdullah Al Shamsi, vice-chancellor of BUiD.
"We have analysed the gap in the market which exists for qualified systems engineers. It is evident that many of the region's most important industries, including the energy and aviation sectors, are looking for a new generation of professionals, as are some of the most strategically important sectors of the future, such as industrial manufacturing and robotic engineering."
What is system engineering?
Systems engineering is an industry-focused discipline with significant relevance for a wide range of sectors including aviation, manufacturing, transport, energy and logistics.
It involves the engagement of several engineering disciplines and tackles the design and analysis of a whole system.
An individual who graduates with a masters in systems engineering will have knowledge across several areas of engineering rather than just one
First intake
- BUiD has two intakes ever year, one in September and the other in February.
- Classes commence on October 5.
Deadline - Applications for the programme are accepted throughout the year.
- Duration: Full time – 1 year
Part time – 2 years - Accreditation: All BUiD programmes are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
- Criteria: Bachelors degree in either Engineering or Physics with Minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (Equates to an upper second-class honours degree from a British university)
- A minimum score of 6.0 IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or 550 in TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), or its equivalent for non-native English speakers.
- Applicants who do not have prior experience in the use of appropriate software will be required to undertake an appropriate BUiD training course at the start of the programme.
- Tuition fee: Dh84,000
- For more information and to apply visit www.buid.ac.ae
Meet an engineer...
Imran Malek
Senior Manager — Network Operations, Du
Imran Malek graduated with a master's degree in project management after completing his bachelor's in electrical engineering at the British University in Dubai. He has been nominated twice for the Young Project Manager Award by the International Project Management Association and was invited to attend the World Congress and award ceremony in Rome in November. After hard work and dedication, Malek is now the senior manager of network operations at Du. Notes finds out how he reached his current position.
Why did you pursue project management?
I discovered my interest in project management while working at Shlumberjer and Petrofac, two international companies. I realised that there was a transition going on in the field and that rather than following the same daily routine, you were actually being evaluated on the deliverables you produce. These deliverables are unique in nature, so you don't do the same thing over and over again.
How did your degree help you?
A master's degree gave me a edge over my colleagues in the field. It's also important to realise that a masters isn't just a degree — it allows you to study the field and see things from a new perspective. It opens new horizons for you and presents you with many more opportunities.
What advice would you give students looking to follow in your footsteps?
Work smart and hard. Don't just go for a university for its name or brand. Know what you want to learn from it and how it will add value to your life and experience. At the end of the day, everything in your life should be able to merge together including your career, family, etc…
