ETB research shows growth in popularity of engineering and technology courses

Citation

(2009), "ETB research shows growth in popularity of engineering and technology courses", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 81 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2009.12781aab.016

ETB research shows growth in popularity of engineering and technology courses

Article Type: University and research news From: Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, Volume 81, Issue 1

New research compiled by the The Engineering and Technology Board (ETB) reveals a 7 per cent increase in applications to Engineering and Technology university courses over the past 5 years, compared to just 0.08 per cent in STEM subjects as a whole. Contrary to popular belief, the research also reveals a 2.3 per cent increase in students graduating from Higher Education with Engineering and Technology degrees over the same period.

This increase is encouraging for the engineering sector when considered in the context of increasing competition from the larger number of degree choices now available as a result of the UK Governments 50 per cent participation target for HE. The research, entitled “The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth”, also provides testimony to the continuing international appeal of UK Engineering and Technology courses, with 25 per cent of applicants hailing from non-EU countries.

The report also reveals an 18 per cent decrease in students applying to Mathematical and Computer Sciences. It should be noted however, that this apparent decline is largely due to a fall in Computer Sciences applicants and actually masks a 61 per cent rise in applicants to Maths.

Dr John Morton, Chief Executive, said: “While there is no room for complacency, the increasing popularity of Engineering and Technology courses is good news for the economy and society at large. The ETB congratulates all those successful students who have just gained A and AS Levels in science, engineering, maths and technology and urges them to consider a socially and financially rewarding career in engineering and technology.”

Dr Anil Kumar, Director or Education and Skills said: “We are certainly encouraged by the increase in applicants, acceptances and completing graduates in Engineering and Technology. Nevertheless, we cannot be complacent. Government, business, industry, the education sector and wider engineering community must come together to ensure these upward trends in the number of HE students studying engineering and technology are sustained by providing inspiring education and careers resources.”