Applications for Wolverhampton university course double after lab opens
Applications for a revived science course have doubled since a new state-of-the-art laboratory opened its doors.
The University of Wolverhampton's £25 million science block opened to students in November, with a new outreach lab and high-tech gadgets including cameras which live stream lectures.
Last year the university re-introduced its chemistry degree, and since the opening of its multi-million pound block in Stafford Street applications for the course have shot up.
University spokeswoman Vickie Warren said last year there were 35 applications for the course, which roughly doubled for 2015 to almost 70.
They expect applications to hit 100 by September when the course starts, she said, hailing the numbers a 'real success story'..
Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer said: "Our strategy is to generate demand in industry related courses, which is why we decided to offer a pure Chemistry degree for the first time in 10 years.
"The first group of students on the new BSc (Hons) in Chemistry joined us in September 2014 and were among the first to benefit from the University's state-of-the-art facilities in the new £25 million Rosalind Franklin Building.
"The degree gives students the opportunity to learn about the main areas of chemistry whilst also specialising in areas such as pharmaceutical, forensic or industrial chemistry to enhance their employability.
"We are delighted that after a strong start for the first intake we have experienced a high level of interest for the next academic year, illustrating the successful growth of a new course which meets industry and student demand."
Students have also been making the most of new technology, with special Lecture Capture cameras allowing lectures to be live streamed. It has already captured 100 hours of lecture footage, with more than 1,000 hours of viewing time by students.
University IT consultant Matthew Flower said: "The technology in the Rosalind Franklin Centre really is cutting edge and making a significant difference to how students learn and work.
"The Rosalind Franklin Science Centre now has the first big implementation of tablets for students across the University. In addition, the innovative way the labs are set up allows flexibility and features movable equipment; unlike traditional labs, it can be easily changed for different lectures and scenarios."
The science block is part of the university's ground-breaking Our Vision, Your Opportunity programme, which will see £250 million invested over five years to boost economic growth and job prospects in the Black Country.
The block houses labs for chemistry, forensics and biology, pharmacy, biotechnology, and biomedical, microbiology and polymer research, and is used by 2,500 students and 150 Faculty of Science and Engineering staff.
A new Professor in Chemistry, Nazira Karodia, will join the University next month (July) from the University of Bradford.
