21st August 2008

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The University of Ulster has announced details of an EU funded project (FORTIFY) aimed at encouraging students to consider a career in computing and engineering.

There are excellent career openings in computing and engineering in Northern Ireland at present but too few suitably qualified graduates to take up these opportunities.

The FORTIFY project seeks to help by providing 32 funded places on one-year Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) courses across the Coleraine, Jordanstown and Magee campuses of the Faculty of Computing and Engineering. Funding will cover the tuition fees for the year of study (£3,145).

Professor David Bustard, Head of School, Computing & Information Engineering at Coleraine says a major objective of FORTIFY is to generate an interest and enthusiasm for computing and engineering.  

“Foundation programmes enable students to develop a range of skills, which are of direct relevance to employers. The IFY in Computing at Coleraine, for example, has modules in personal development, numeracy, communication and problem solving, as well as technical modules promoting basic skills and knowledge in computing. The IFY approach will prepare students for subsequent honours studies and ultimately help them progress into a high demand area of employment.”     

“It is clear, however, that a foundation year adds to the total cost of an honours degree, which makes it prohibitive for many students, especially those in the lower socio-economic groups. The FORTIFY project will provide financial support for such students.”   

Computing and Engineering are key sectors in the Northern Ireland economy and Professor Bustard suggests that by funding places under the FORTIFY project, Ulster will create a ‘win-win’ situation for students and employers.  

“The funding is timely and will provide welcome support for new students to the University. In the longer term it will increase the pool of skilled graduates in the computing and engineering industries.”

There are funded places for IFY courses in all four schools in the Faculty. These are available immediately. Funding priority will be given to female students; returning students who have had at least a one year break in their studies; and students from a financially disadvantaged background.  

For further information please contact Breda Sheehan on +44 (0)28 90366317 (e-mail: b.sheehan@ulster.ac.uk).

For further information, please contact:

Press Office, Department of Communication and Development
Tel: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk