Masdar Institute of Science and Technology has formally launched its pre-Masters program as one of several initiatives to increase the number of UAE Nationals enrolling in the Institute’s Master’s of Science programs.
The 2010 pre-Masters program, which starts on 24 January 2010, was designed by Masdar Institute faculty including the Dean of Engineering, Dr Marwan Khraisheh and Assistant Provost for Regional Affairs, Dr Lamya Nawaf Fawwaz. Zayed University assisted Masdar Institute in structuring the pre-Master’s program, and will deliver the individual courses at its north campus in Abu Dhabi. The collaboration on the pre-Masters program stems from a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in late 2009 between the Institute and Zayed University.
The pre-Masters program will assist young UAE Nationals who wish to enter Masdar Institute’s Master’s of Science programs but lack the required GRE and/or TOEFL scores. The investment by Masdar Institute in this program is part of a strategy to develop Abu Dhabi’s human capital to ensure the Emirate achieves its goal of becoming a knowledge-led economy.
Dr John Perkins, Provost of Masdar Institute, said the Institute was committed to involving UAE Nationals in developing the science and technology solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges: the future of energy consumption and climate change.
“Masdar Institute will play an important role in ensuring that the vision of Abu Dhabi’s leadership of maintaining its leading role in the global energy industry is secured, and that the UAE is transformed into a knowledge economy. Initiatives such as the agreement between Masdar Institute and Zayed University will ensure we deliver on our mandate,” added Dr. Perkins.
Masdar Institute is the Middle East’s first graduate-level, research-driven institution that is focused on researching alternative energy, environmental technologies and sustainability. The Institute was established with the support and cooperation of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Masdar Institute officially opened its doors to students in 2009, with the inaugural class of 88 highly qualified students from around the world starting classes in September.
The program will comprise courses to advance students’ skills in communications, critical thinking and research, as well as the fundamentals of their chosen majors. It will also provide assistance to students who need to take the GRE and/or TOEFL to meet admission requirements for Masdar Institute.
Dr Rex Taylor, Associate Provost for Program Development, Engagement and Operations, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Masdar Institute on this innovative program for building human capital in the energy sector. I see it as a prelude to more joint programs and activities between the two institutions which will become neighbors when our new campus opens. As neighbors, we will work together."
In 2010, the pre-Masters program will cater for approximately 20 UAE Nationals, and last for one academic year, or two semesters. There is also an option to complete the pre-Masters program in one semester, provided the required GRE and TOEFL scores are achieved by the student within that time frame. Masdar Institute and Zayed University are offering interested students the choice to study either full-time or part-time, with full-time students receiving the same benefits as fully fledged Master’s students at Masdar Institute. This includes a Masdar Institute scholarship covering tuition, housing, a laptop, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and a cost-of-living stipend.
