The University of Dundee has been named a leading light in preparing graduates for the workplace in a report recommending measures to make students more employable.
The report by Universities UK looking at employability and widening participation in higher education presents a number of challenges to universities to ensure that graduates are ready for the world of work. The research includes case studies from universities - the first of which is the University of Dundee.
"Enhancing employability, recognising diversity" released tomorrow, recommends an innovation in the Department of Applied Computing at the University of Dundee as a first class example of higher education preparing its students for industry and employment. The report praises the Department of Applied Computing's Industrial Advisory Board.
Professor Alan Newell, Head of the Department of Applied Computing said: "The Industrial Advisory Board is vital to the good running of our department. I'm delighted that this important initiative has been recognised by Universities UK. A report of this kind making recommendations for universities to work towards long term employment is essential for all involved in education and employment."
The Industrial AdvisoryBoard comprises a number of businesspeople to review and make suggestions for the degree course in applied computing. Board members review the course contents and make sure that the department knows of the latest innovations in technology in the business place. Lecturers can then teach the knowledge and skills that industry requires - resulting in more employable graduates.
The membership of the Board includes members from large multinational organisations covering software, computer systems, communications and financial applications - Microsoft, Sun, BT and NCR. Each member brings a wealth of experience to advise on what industry needs from new graduates and what skills lead to successful long-term employment.
The Industrial Advisory Board contributed to the modification of software engineering in May 2000, and in May 2002 it discussed the programming languages taught on the degree programme at the University of Dundee. The board helped the Department of Applied Computing prepare for the British Computer Society visit in 2002.
Guest lectures are also given to undergraduates and post graduates on a regular basis from members of the Board's companies on specific skills such as software engineering and data communications through to general skill talks from NCR on CV skills. Industry representatives strike up a relationship with students and summer work placements for students have been secured through this initiative.
Picture caption: University of Dundee Industrial Advisory Board (l to r) Professor Alan Newell, John Beales, Russell Kay, George Drummond, Alison Armstrong, Professor John Arnott, Louisa Cross, Richard Murphy, Dr Steve Parkes, Professor Ian Ricketts, Dr Peter Gregor, Iain Wilkie.