Enrolments in science programmes at Lincoln University have increased by 33 percent over the past five years.
The rise, expressed in terms of EFTS (Equivalent Fulltime Students), covers the most recent complete period for which final figures are available, 2002-2006.
The University sees the swing to the sciences it offers as a reflection of interest in careers within New Zealand’s natural and bio-science industries and the tertiary qualifications needed for positions and advancement in those fields.
An equally strong factor has been the research needs of the country, as identified and funded by both specific industries and the Government.
As Lincoln says in its Profile, the document explaining how it implements its Charter and meets the requirements of the Government’s Tertiary Education Strategy, the University “contributes directly to industries driving the transformation of New Zealand’s economy” and accepts that New Zealand will continue to build its comparative advantage on its natural and biological resources.
The growth in Lincoln’s science figures has been driven by increased enrolments in agricultural science, viticulture and oenology (wine science), applied science (covering areas such as ecology, environmental management, animal science, crop agronomy and molecular ecology), and in the Bachelor of Science programme in which students can “major” in animal science, biochemistry, biotechnology, conservation and ecology, plant and horticultural science, food science, soil science, water science, and environmental science.
The important role that Lincoln University plays in science in New Zealand was emphasised in the latest round of funding allocations from the Government agency, the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology.
Lincoln University was awarded four new contracts, valued at over $13 million. Added to two other FoRST research contracts announced earlier in the year this brings the total amount of FoRST research funding awarded to Lincoln University in 2007 to $16.2 million. All the contracts will open up positions for postgraduates, further increasing science enrolments at Lincoln University.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Ian Collins, Journalist
Lincoln University, Canterbury
Tel: 64 3 325 2811 ext 8549
Email: Ian Collins