Scholarship stats show more women are looking to a career in engineering
Female students make up nearly one-fifth of recipients for the new Diamond Jubilee scholarships provided by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Considering just 7% of the engineering workforce is made up of women, it is positive news that 19% of recipients for the £1000-per-year scholarships are female, showing a possible increase in women considering a career in engineering.
Professor Andy Hopper, President of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) said: “With demand for more than two million engineers over the next few decades, it has never been more important to encourage women to study engineering so that they are able to follow rewarding careers and, ultimately, protect the UK’s economic prosperity.”
The IET has awarded £2 million in scholarships through its new Diamond Jubilee Scholarships programme. This is the first time the scholarships have been awarded, with the aim of encouraging bright students to consider engineering and technology study and careers.
Five hundred and forty of the UK’s top students starting an engineering degree at 27 UK universities this year will receive a £1,000 per year during their studies, up to a maximum of £3,000 for Bachelors students and £4,000 for MEng students.
The programme was open to all UK students who achieved three As at A Level, three A grade Advanced Highers, five A grade Highers or an International Baccalaureate Diploma at 36 points or above, and who have been accepted to join an IET accredited engineering or technology degree course this year.
The IET received 1,144 applications, of which 540 were successful in meeting the criteria. The 2013 winners are the first cohort who, it is hoped, will go on to become mentors to the 2014 Diamond Scholars, as this will be an annual award.
