Emirates Aviation College has received formal accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for its MBA programmes. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the history of the college with its first accredited masters degree programme now available.
TTN caught up with DR AHMAD AL ALI, senior vice president, who believes the accreditation has affirmed the organisation’s strong commitment to the interest and success of the students.
What are the various undergraduate and vocational programme opportunities for nationals available at Emirates Aviation College?
We have several undergraduate programmes available to UAE nationals including aeronautical engineering, aviation management and this September we will launch industrial engineering and management. Both of our ongoing programmes are already accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. We also offer a variety of vocational programme options in aerospace engineering, tourism management, business management and computer and electronics. Graduates of these programmes can progress to a higher degree by joining several honours degree programmes in collaboration with the UK’s Coventry University in electronics engineering, aerospace, avionics technology and applied business.
Some of the cadet pilot programmes such as the foundation and ATP courses are conducted here with our partners Jepessen Academy, a subsidiary of Boeing.
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Dr Ahmad…recognition |
How many students are currently enrolled on the various education programmes?
The college has around 1,600 full-time students. Besides this we also provide short-term courses on flight management and air transport pilot licensing with Jepessen Academy, US. Last year we had around 15 per cent growth, this year we have seen a 33 per cent increase in students. At this rate we will have outgrown the premises’ capacity soon!
We currently have about 10 per cent UAE nationals versus 90 per cent of students from other expatriate nationalities including GCC students.
A large number of our students are from the Subcontinent including India, Pakistan and the Philippines. These students generally study to achieve a Higher National Diploma awarded by Edexcel, UK.
What percentages of graduates is absorbed by Emirates itself?
We don’t have a fixed per cent, but our best achievers are nominated to the Emirates HR department. The college does not promise a job, but I could safely say that a large number of our engineering students are already working with Emirates. Some of our licensed engineers come back to continue with higher education by joining the MBA programmes.
Are there plans to expand the current premises?
At the moment, the existing premises are sufficient for the number of students.
Are there plans to introduce any new programmes in 2010?
We will introduce a new PhD programme in aviation with Coventry. We are one of the few colleges who have had such a response with the masters programme and we will continue to expand on these courses.