University launches new Science and Engineering faculty

The Faculty of Science and Engineering was officially launched at an event at the University’s City Campus on Wednesday 19 June by Honorary Graduate Suzi Perry.

Suzi, who fronts the BBC’s coverage of Formula One and was born and raised in Wolverhampton, joined guests, staff and students for the event.

The new Faculty, which has been formed from the former School of Applied Sciences and School of Technology, will officially open for business on 1 August 2013 and will be led by its new Dean, Ndy Ekere.

The move follows an evaluation of the University’s structures and provision to ensure it continues to provide challenging, relevant, highly practical degree courses focused on the skills required in today’s workplace.

Recognised areas of growth in the UK economy over the coming years are:

• Advanced manufacturing
• Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals
• Low carbon economy
• Engineering and Construction

Each of these areas requires graduates with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “This University grew from a base located at the heart of the Industrial Revolution and the local economy has a significant requirement for STEM graduates. This will be a key element in regeneration for the Black Country.

“The predicted growth areas in the UK economy are advanced manufacturing, engineering, construction, life sciences and pharmaceuticals and also that there is a growing demand for well trained, skilled, graduates to go into these areas.

“We are already beginning to see the expansion of some of these areas, with the building of the new Jaguar Land Rover plant. These growth areas are heavily supported by STEM based subjects, particularly those currently taught at the University of Wolverhampton.

“The aim of the new Faculty of Science and Engineering is to provide an industry-focused curriculum to ensure we are producing skilled graduates that will meet the requirements of employers within these key growth areas.

“We are investing significantly in our facilities with the building of a new science facility on our City Campus so these are exciting times.”

The new Science Centre in Stafford Street will feature state-of-the art lab facilities and will open during the 2014-15 academic year.

ENDS

For more information please contact James Allen in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322003

Photo:  Dean of Faculty, Ndy Ekere, Suzi Perry and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Geoff Layer.

Date Issued: Friday 21 June 2013