Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) Degree and a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Degree in engineering?
B. Tech degrees deal with topics in engineering like the B.Sc. degrees, but the knowledge is more applied and less theoretical. For example, mathematics, sciences and technical courses in B. Tech degrees are taught with more application based examples and supported by hands on laboratory exercises. B.Sc. degrees usually require additional higher-level mathematics, including calculus and calculus-based courses to prepare students for continued studies and research at the graduate level.
2. Upon completing the B. Tech degree would I have attained the title of engineer?
Holders of B. Tech degrees in the UK have the title of Incorporated Engineer (IEng.) while in the USA and Canada they are known as Engineering Technologists or simply Technologists. B. Tech Degrees are recognized and accredited globally as bonafide engineering degrees.
3. What jobs can I apply for at my workplace with the B. Tech Degree?
In the Trinidad & Tobago context positions such as electrical, mechanical and field supervisor, plant superintendent and maintenance manager.
4. At which of the UWI campuses will it be hosted?
Initially at St Augustine with the intention of relocating to the South Campus, Debe.
5. Do I need to resign my job to pursue the B. Tech degree?
No, the degree is offered on a part time (PT) basis, evening delivery.
6. What are the entry requirements for the B. Tech degree?
- A National Technician Diploma (NTD/ NETD) in Elect. Eng. or Mech. Eng. with a GPA OF 2.5 or better. The Diploma Programme should be of 2-year duration with a minimum of 90 credits.
- A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience.
7. Does my diploma and work experience count towards the degree?
Yes, up to a maximum of 35 transfer credits, which includes 2 credits for having a minimum of 2 years’ work experience in a relevant field.
8. How is the B. Tech degree structured?
The degree can be completed in 11 semesters or approximately 3-1/2 yr. of continuous study afternoon delivery.
9. What is the cost per student per annum for the B. Tech degree?
On a / student / annum basis the cost is $25,000 TTD.
10. Is GATE funding available to defer the cost of the B. Tech degree?
An application for GATE assistance has been made and we are awaiting feedback.
11. Will the B. Tech degree be internationally accredited?
The accreditation exercise is expected to commence after the 5th year of the programme. The international accreditation body will be the Institution of Engineering and Technology of the United Kingdom (IET UK). IET UK are the international accreditors for the degrees at the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (DECE), Faculty of Engineering, St Augustine.
12. What are the requirements for graduation and will the B. Tech degree be classified?
You must pass all courses, this is mandatory, (79/76 credits for Elect. Eng. and Mech. Eng. respectively) in addition to 35 transfer credits (diploma and work experience) giving a total of 114/111 credits for graduation. The calculation of CGPA and classification of the degree will follow the B. Tech undergraduate prospectus.
13. Can I enrol for a post graduate degree (M.Sc. / MBA) with a B. Tech degree?
When you apply for entry to post graduate degrees’ special conditions may apply, you will have to pay close attention to these. Institutions usually identify bridging / matching sections or additional courses of study you will need to undertake to satisfy the entry requirements of the programme. You must be prepared to undertake further study to be accepted into post graduate programmes with greater specialisation. It is always a good idea to speak with a post graduate coordinator to see how well the B. Tech degree satisfies the entry requirements to the programme you may be applying to. This will guard against any mismatch of qualifications and disappointment.
14. Can I apply for membership to the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago (APETT) / registration with the Board of Engineering of Trinidad and Tobago (BOETT) with a B. Tech degree?
You will initially apply to be an associate member with APETT. A category called “Engineering Technologist” must be duly constituted and ratified, and this is yet to happen. As far as the BOETT goes the act will have to be amended by parliamentary decree to include a category to cover “Engineering Technologist” before they can be placed on the register and this is also yet to happen. The B. Tech degrees have received the approvals from the Accreditation Council of Trinidad & Tobago (ACTT) and the UWI will pursue the necessary international accreditation to have the graduates of the B. Tech degrees registered as “Engineering Technologists”.
