Difficult, challenging, worth it

When asked about what they will say to future cohorts of the dual-degree programs, all four were in unison in saying that the experience brought with it difficulties and challenges that required grit and determination. For her part, Tampon said, 鈥淚t changed me as a person and I couldn鈥檛 imagine myself not having the 2-year experience. So, grab the opportunity while you still can.鈥� Jalova emphasized encounter in his advice, saying: 鈥淲hile studying abroad, you will be exposed to a lot of new cultures and you will be forced to step out of your comfort zone. It is a unique experience of uncomfortable events, but it will make you grow and will bring out the best in you.鈥�

The twinning / double-degree program has been operational since 2016 and has two modes: the 3+2 BS Civil Engineering program and the 5+1 MS Civil Engineering program.

The post UST, Catholic University of America graduate first cohort of double-degree civil engineers appeared first on 探花精选.

Arch. Armel Andre Bonifacio, Arch. Brian James Chiu, Arch. Joey de Vera, Arch. John John Ong, and Arch. David Yu are the members of the pioneering batch of graduate students who will take up dual PhD in Built Environment/Architecture, a PhD by research program offered by the (USTGS) and the University of Reading in UK (UoR). Established in 1892, UoR is currently ranked in the top 200 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2018).

This PhD by research is delivered via distance education. There are no taught courses enrolled; however, it follows a certain structure that will allow the students to cope with the demands of the programme. Training is provided to the students before the start and while enrolled in the programme. Students can complete the degree in three years strictly observing the following phases: (1) Independent Study (Standard or PhD by distance) and Supervision; (2) Required Training Sessions; (3) Assessment and Monitoring; (4) Learning Needs Analysis; (5) Annual Assessments; (6) Confirmation of Registration; (7) Additional Training and (8) Viva (Final Defense).

Prior to acceptance to the program, the first cohort hurdled a rigorous training-workshop on Reading and Critiquing facilitated by the UST Graduate School (USTGS-CCPED). They also attended a lecture-workshop conducted by a UoR professor, Prof. Lorraine Farelly, on November 11, 2017.

The pioneering batch arrived in London on September 21 and settled in the UoR Students Residence. Their week at UoR was pretty busy for they were inducted by the UoR International Relations Officer at Whiteknights Campus, met with the School of Built Environment Vice Dean and the School of Architecture Dean (London Road Campus and with the UoR Supervisors), inducted to the library, held consultative meetings with their supervisors, inducted to the Graduate School, and attended workshops for new graduate students.

The dual degree program is a Transnational Education (TNE) program jointly funded by the Commission on Higher Education and the British Council under the project Joint Development of Niche Programmes through Philippine-UK Linkages. Ten top higher education institutions in the Philippines have been selected as recipients of project support: Ateneo de Manila University, Bicol University, Central Luzon State University, De La Salle University, Miriam College, Saint Louis University, Silliman University, University of the Philippines, University of San Carlos, and 探花精选.

When the pioneering batch completes the program, the 探花精选 will be dubbed as the hub for the very first doctoral program in Architecture in the Philippines.

The post First cohort for dual program in PhD in Architecture flies to UK to commence graduate studies appeared first on 探花精选.