Overview of the HCT - Higher Colleges of Technology

13Overview of the HCTS T U D E N T H A N D B O O K- 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 1

14 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT14HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y15Overview of the HCTIn 1985, HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan,Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University,made a commitment to establish a new systemof postsecondary education for UAE Nationalsthat would stress the ideals of productivity, selfdeterminationand excellence.Graduates of the HCT make immediate contributionsto government, business and industrial sectors, anddevelop into leaders in their fields. The Colleges arededicated to student-oriented learning, which placesthe responsibility for education upon the studentsthemselves and promotes lifelong learning.His Excellency envisioned a system of the highestquality that would be used to educate Nationals forthe professional and technical careers necessary in arapidly developing society.In fulfillment of that vision, the Higher Colleges ofTechnology (HCT) was established in 1988 by FederalLaw No 2 issued by the Late Sheikh Zayed bin SultanAl Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace.Four colleges commenced that year. Since then,thirteen additional colleges and the Center ofExcellence for Applied Research and Training (CERT)have opened throughout the Emirates to form thesystem of the Higher Colleges of Technology.Today, the system of the HCT is the largest highereducational institution in the United Arab Emirateswith the current enrolment exceeding 18,000 students,all of whom are UAE nationals.ProfileEnrolment over 18,000Colleges 17Graduates over 29,000Credentials over 40,000Academic Divisions 6Programs over 90HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTThe seventeen HCT men’s and women’s campusesoffer an impressive range of instructional programsin the fields of Applied Communications, Business,Education, Engineering, Health Sciences, InformationTechnology and General Education, with all HCTprograms being delivered in English.15HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

16 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YGovernance and OrganizationHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTGovernanceThe Higher Colleges of Technology constitute a federalindependent academic corporate body for highereducation established under Federal Law No. 2 of 1988and later re-organized under Federal Law no. 17 of1998. Under the authority of Federal Law no. 17, theHCT confers degrees at the Bachelor, Higher DiplomaAdvanced Diploma and Diploma levels.The HCT operates as a system of 17 separate campusesfor male and female students in urban and rurallocations in five emirates. The headquarters are locatedin the city of Abu Dhabi.The HCT is governed by a Governing Council whichincludes the Chancellor, HE Sheikh Nahayan MabarakAl Nahayan, the Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali andother qualified and experienced members from varioussectors in the UAE appointed by the Cabinet on therecommendation of the Chancellor. The Chancelloris the legal representative of the System. The Vice-Chancellor is responsible for the management of theHCT and the implementation of its regulations andresolutions.OrganizationThe Higher Colleges of Technology organizationcomprises a central administration and the HCTcampuses. The central administration is made up ofthe Academic Central Services and Central Servicesdirectorates.Central Administration, located with the ViceChancellor’s office in the city of Abu Dhabi, performsthe various functions and services that provide acentralized resource to enable the campuses to achievetheir educational objectives.The Centre of Excellence for Applied Research andTraining (CERT) is the commercial arm of the HCTinvolved in strategic alliances with local industry andmultinational organizations to develop education andknowledge projects throughout the MENA region.Chancellor:HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al NahayanVice Chancellor:Dr Tayeb KamaliCentral AdministrationAcademic Central Services:The Academic Central Services Directorate (ACS)provides academic leadership, academic policy andplanning guidance, coordination and evaluation ofinstructional programs and processes, academicstandards and assessment, student and registrationservices, and learning resources in support of theimplementation of academic programs. ACS isstructured into two functional areas: academic divisionsand service divisions.Academic DivisionsThe Academic Division Deans provide academicleadership to ensure the quality of teaching, learning,evaluation and assessment. They manage divisionalacademic resources to support all HCT campuses.Academic Division Deans maintain and enhance theHCT’s learner-centred environment in the followingdivisions:Applied CommunicationsBusinessEducationEngineering TechnologyGeneral EducationHealth SciencesInformation TechnologyService Divisions• Learning Resource Services - Central LearningResource Services coordinate resources and providetechnical services to the individual college libraryand learning centres across the HCT system.• Central Registry and Student Services - CentralRegistry and Student Services provide leadership,guidance, direction and training in student admission,enrolment, registration and student support services.16HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y17They act as a resource to the colleges and theirfaculty, support staff and administrators throughcollege-based Academic and Student Services staffand provide central registry services to HCT Colleges.They also provide information and research datato internal and external bodies to enable informeddecision-making.Central ServicesCentral Services is made up of various units includingAcademic Advancement and Accreditation, CommunityRelations, Finance, Budget and Internal Audit,Human Resources, Policy, Planning and InstitutionalResearch, Procurement and Contracts, Technology andAdministration.Academic Advancement and Accreditation -The AcademicAdvancement and Accreditation (AAA) Division’s aim isto ensure the achievement of quality standards acrossthe HCT. Its role is to improve the quality of academicprograms and services progressively over time usinga range of tools to evaluate and improve institutionaleffectiveness.As part of this quality improvement AAA supportsand encourages the academic divisions across thesystem to seek program accreditation and externalbenchmarking. AAA also oversees the operation of theinternal program quality assurance process to improveprogram quality.AAA work focuses on the achievement of specifiedoutcomes and performance indicators as a key measureof institutional effectiveness and improvement.Community Relations supports the Colleges andother directorates in a range of promotional andmarketing activities and assists with the organizationof promotional events and activities, educationalconferences and various official events. The departmentalso provides translation and documentation servicesand assists with legal and legislative matters for theHCT.Finance, Budget and Internal Audit -The Finance,Budget and Internal Audit Department provides anumber of essential financial and accounting servicesto the HCT system including:• financial reporting;• maintaining the general ledger accounts;• processing payment of goods and services incurredon behalf of HCT;• receipting and recording of all revenues;• cash management and banking relationships; and• fixed asset control.Human Resources -The Human Resources Departmentis responsible for the research, development andinterpretation of personnel policies and procedures. Itprovides client-focused HR services, balancing the bestinterests of the organization and its personnel in orderto attract and retain top quality employees.Policy, Planning and Institutional Research -The Policy,Planning and Institutional Research Directorate isresponsible for:• facilitating strategic planning;• pursuing institutional research both in terms ofinternal performance indicators and externalenvironmental data;• initiating institutional development projects;• coordinating policy development; and• supporting college campuses to achieve the HCTmission.Procurement and Contracts -The Procurement andContracts Department assists with the acquisition ofrequired goods and services in an orderly, timely,and economical manner that assists HCT directoratesto achieve their mission of delivering high qualityeducation to UAE Nationals.Technology and Administration - The HigherColleges of Technology constantly implements newtechnologies and learning systems that allow studentsto study in a modern, innovative and progressivelearning environment. Technology and Administrationprovides the technical services that assist with theimplementation of new technologies and equipment,and in the development of operational guidelines forbest user practice.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT17HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

18 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHigher Colleges of Technology CampusesEach campus is headed by a Director who is responsiblefor the overall leadership of staff, students and campuslife, educational programming, quality improvement,financial and human resources, planning, appointmentof staff, marketing, and assessment of performance.The College Director is the senior educational leaderon site and operates within the framework of the HCTsystem. Campus Directors manage system-wide issuesthrough membership on the Policy Council that ischaired by the Vice Chancellor. The Director is thestudent records custodian on each campus.In addition to delivering HCT-credentialed programs,campuses also provide access to lifelong learning,training and educational resources through ContinuingEducation programs, to provide flexible, high-quality,market-responsive opportunities that satisfy corporate,personal and professional development needs.Campus Founded Director Telephone Fax PO Box WebHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTAl Ain Men’s College 1988 03-782 0888 03-782 0099 17155 aam.hct.ac.ae/Al Ain Women’sCollegeAbu Dhabi Men’sCollegeAbu Dhabi Women’sCollege1988 03-782 0777 03-782 0766 17258 aaw.hct.ac.ae/1988 Dr. Simon Jones 02-445 1514 02-445 1571 250351995Dr. KathleenHodge02-641 3839 02-641 3456 41012www.admc.hct.ac.ae/www.adwc.hct.ac.ae/Dubai Men’s College 1989 Dr. Bob Richards 04-326 0333 04-326 0303 15825 dbm.hct.ac.ae/Dubai Women’sCollegeFujairah Men’sCollegeFujairah Women’sCollegeMadinat Zayed Men’sCollegeMadinat ZayedWomen’s CollegeRas Al KhaimahMen’s CollegeRas Al KhaimahWomen’s College1989 Dr. Howard Reed 04-267 2929 04-267 3939 16062 dwc.hct.ac.ae/19892004Dr. W. DavidPelhamDr. W. DavidPelham09-222 2112 09-222 2113 4114 fjw.hct.ac.ae/09-228 1212 09-228 1313 1626 fjw.hct.ac.ae/2006 Dr Philip Quirke 02-894 3700 02-884 9081 58855 mzc.hct.ac.ae2006 Dr. Philip Quirke 02-884 3700 02-884 9081 58855 mzc.hct.ac.ae1999 Dr. Robert Moulton 07-221 2999 07-222 3955 4793 rkm.hct.ac.ae/1993 Dr. Robert Moulton 07-221 0550 07-221 0660 4792 rkw.hct.ac.ae/Ruwais Men’s College 2007 Dr. Philip Quirke 02-8943800 02-8778158 58855 mzc.hct.ac.ae/Ruwais Women’sCollegeSharjah Men’sCollegeSharjah Women’sCollege2007 Dr. Philip Quirke 02-8943800 02-8778158 58855 mzc.hct.ac.ae/1993 Dr. Farid Ohan 06-558 5222 06-558 5252 7946 sjm.hct.ac.ae/1998 Dr. Farid Ohan 06-558 5333 06-558 5353 7947 sjw.hct.ac.ae/18HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y19The Centre of Excellence for AppliedResearch and TrainingThe Centre of Excellence for Applied Research & Training(CERT) is the commercial, research and trainingarm of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), whichis the largest higher education institution in the UnitedArab Emirates.Since its creation in 1996, CERT has grown to be one ofthe largest private education providers in the MiddleEast and has become synonymous with quality in education,training, research, and socioeconomic progress.CERT is also the largest MENA (Middle East North Africa)investor in the discovery and commercializationof technology.The CERT Group of Companies leverages unique relationshipswith global leaders in education and businessto provide a wide range of educational, applied research,training and consulting services to government,private sector institutions and businesses in the UAEand the region at large.The Centre is involved in strategic alliances with anumber of multinational organizations to collaborate indeveloping a diverse range of business and technologysolutions. As a result, over the years CERT has helpedthousands of professionals and companies meet theirgoals and achieve the next level in their development.Its strong ties with business and industry have resultedin large numbers of HCT graduates finding rewardingemployment.CERT also leads human capital development by offeringtotal education solutions to both corporate and individualcustomers. It holds the MENA training rightsfor many ‘best in class’ programs such as the AmericanManagement Association qualification. CERT is the exclusivehealth and environment educator for the GeneralHealth Authority in Abu Dhabi. The CERT ThalesInstitute, a joint venture with Thales Institute of France,offers specialized, advanced technology training forthe region.It is the regional facilitator of the INCONET-GCC program(International Cooperation Network for Gulf CooperationCountries) which sees 18 government andprivate research organizations, from Europe, the GCCand Yemen form the European Commission-fundedproject, where representatives will develop ways inwhich to promote bi-regional science and technologyresearch partnerships and enhance interaction betweenthe regions.CERT has also forged a strong collaborative relationshipwith one of America’s foremost business schools- the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School ofBusiness. CERT’s Abu Dhabi Technology Park will actas a base for the Wharton School faculty to study theconcepts of entrepreneurship, innovation and familybusiness at HCT campuses. The two institutions havealso collaborated on the development of an Arabicversion of Wharton’s award-winning online journal,Knowledge@Wharton.CERT provides the only on-demand super-computingcenter in the South Asia, Middle East, and the NorthAfrica regions. The CERT Blue Gene supercomputer offers5.7 teraflops calculating speed to corporate clientsfor use in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and geneticsresearch as well as oil and gas simulation. The CERTTechnology Park is home to international companiessuch as Intel, Honeywell and Lucent Technologies.The CERT Institute for Languages offers instruction inseveral languages, and is also the sole provider oflinguistic training to the UAE military. Post-graduateprograms offered include the University of StrathclydeMBA, the Deakin University Master of Education and anExecutive MBA in Innovation & Entrepreneurship whichfeatures the best professors from leading institutionsaround the world.Continuing EducationThrough Continuing Education Programs, the HigherColleges of Technology promotes investment inpeople, provides access to lifelong learning, trainingand educational resources via flexible, high-quality,market-responsive opportunities that satisfy corporate,personal and professional development needs.The Continuing Education and Contract Traininginitiative of the HCT started in Spring, 2000. The HCTstaff use their skills and industry expertise to respondto the training needs of individuals, as well as to theneeds of larger groups from government and industry.Continuing Education and Contract Training areimportant elements in developing a workforce of bothnational citizens and expatriates.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT19HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

20 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YEducational and Academic SettingThe Learning Modelinformation from a variety of sources.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTThe UAE government is committed to 21st centurynation-building through the provision of cutting edgeeducation to all Nationals who want to develop theirpotential.The HCT aims to be a key educational pillar on whichthe modern nation is built. The HCT learning model isa strategic framework through which the HCT missionis attained.The learning model provides a framework within whichHCT students receive their education. The model isconsistent with the HCT mission and offers a means bywhich the HCT mission is attained.The HCT Learning Model is based on the followingprofessional values:Innovative practiceContinuous improvementProfessional integrityEfficiency and effectivenessResponsiveness to the needs of stakeholders.It sets standards for the design of curricula, givesprinciples which should be followed in learning andteaching, and guidelines for assessment within theHCT.The learning model defines the HCT’s educational philosophyand identifies eight graduate outcomes:Graduate Outcome One: Communication andinformation literacyAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:communicating information, opinions, conceptsand ideas effectively in English through thespoken and written mediums to a variety ofaudiences;selecting, understanding, evaluating and makingeffective use of information from a variety ofsources presented in both spoken and writtenform in English; andacting ethically in the use and presentation ofGraduate Outcome Two: Critical and creativethinkingAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:evaluating and analyzing knowledge andinformation;identifying and understanding problems; anddemonstrating creativity and innovation inproblem-solving.Graduate Outcome Three: Global awarenessand citizenshipAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:recognizing and analyzing ethical dilemmas, andpracticing ethical decision-making;recognizing and analyzing the issues affecting thelocal, regional and global environment; andrecognizing and analyzing the interrelationsbetween local, regional and global contexts andcultures.Graduate Outcome Four: TechnologicalliteracyAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:recognizing the influence of technology uponindividuals and society;using technology to perform effectively in theirpersonal and professional lives and actingethically when using technology.Graduate Outcome Five: Self-managementand independent learningAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:reflecting on and evaluating their own learning;working independently; anddemonstrating a positive work attitude andeffective work habits.20HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y21Graduate Outcome Six: Teamwork andleadershipAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:understanding the functions and dynamics ofgroups;contributing effectively to teamwork;acting effectively in a leadership role; anddemonstrating confidence and social maturity ininterpersonal relationships.Graduate Outcome Seven: VocationalcompetenciesAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:applying profession-specific knowledge requiredfor successful employment in their chosen field;applying profession-specific skills required forsuccessful employment in their chosen field; anddemonstrating the specific attributes required forsuccessful employment in their chosen field.Graduate Outcome Eight: MathematicalliteracyAccording to their credential, HCT graduates demonstratean appropriate level of competence in:applying relevant numerical analytical tools tosolve problems in authentic contexts; andanalyzing and communicating mathematicalconcepts with confidence in authentic contexts.The educational experiences that the HCT providesensure that HCT students:are capable of graduating from their chosenprogram with academic integrity;are deserving of respect and equally capable ofrespecting others;can be active contributors to nation-building;are responsible and accountable for their actions;act ethically;learn more effectively in applied learningenvironments;are able to communicate effectively usingEnglish;are technologically literate;are mathematically literate;are able to work independently andcollaboratively; andare able to think critically and creatively.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTThrough its learning model, academic staff iscommitted to providing educational experiences thatwill transform school leavers into HCT students whowill graduate with the knowledge, skills and attributesto effectively contribute to the nation-building processand to help them develop a sense of personal andsocial responsibility.21HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

22 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHCT Services and ResourcesHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTAcademic and Student ServicesThe Academic and Student Services Departments atthe HCT campuses work closely with Academic CentralServices to ensure the academic integrity of an HCTcredential and that all students have access to asupportive environment at their campus that promotesthe personal well-being and academic success ofstudents to prepare them to participate in the on-goingdevelopment of the UAE.College Academic and Student Services are responsiblefor many aspects of student life at the HCT includingstudent recruitment and admissions and new studentorientation. They provide services, such as registration,student records and official transcripts, examinations,student timetables, course schedules and verificationof graduation eligibility. They also assist with specialneeds, financial aid, student behavior and discipline,attendance, student relations, academic advising,safety and security, counseling services, and wellness.They give guidance for students in the organization ofstudent councils, peer tutoring, extracurricular and cocurricularactivities such as special events, athletic andrecreational activities and clubs and activities. Theyprovide career services, support sponsored studentsand programs, and finally organize alumni activities.Academic AdvisingEach student is assigned an Academic Advisor at thestart of the academic year. If possible, the advisorwill be one of the student’s teachers. Advisors reviewstudent progress reports, assist students with theireducational and career goals, and advise them on classschedules.Alumni AssociationThere is an HCT Alumni Association which graduatesare welcome to join. This association:helps graduates stay connected to each other,keeps graduates informed about the HCTincluding its international and nationalconferences and events,provides opportunities for life-long learning,allows graduates to sign up for voluntarysupport,provides career advice, andprovides a directory of employers andinformation about career opportunities.Career ServicesThe HCT has established Career Centers that are staffedby specialists in career management and counseling, andwhich place strong emphasis on career development ina constantly changing global workforce.The activities of the HCT Career Centers include:assisting students to make informed careerdecisions, and provide career assessmentopportunities;providing one-to-one counseling to help studentsmatch their interests with suitable careers;building relationships between the HCT,employers and business communities;organizing career fairs and other career-centeredevents, including summer orientation sessions forhigh-school students;posting employment listings received fromemployers in both the private and public sectors;assisting students in the search for employment,and acting as liaison between employers,graduates and students;providing Career Resource Centre libraries andstudent-focused workshops on topics such ascareer planning and development techniques,developing a positive professional attitude, CVand resume writing techniques, and job interviewtechniques;researching alumni and graduate interests.Counseling ServiceThe HCT provides personal and academic counselingto help students with their classroom performance orsocial adjustment at the college.College counselors are available to meet studentshaving academic or personal problems that interferewith their classroom performance or social adjustment.Counselors can help students find solutions to theirproblems and facilitate academic and personal growth.22HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y23Extra-curricular ActivitiesLockersDuring the year, there is a wide variety of physical,social and cultural activities available to interestedstudents. Students are encouraged to make every effortto participate in these activities, which are designedto supplement and complement their classroom work,enhance their experience at the Higher Colleges ofTechnology, and provide a healthy balance in life.In many cases, students organize or coordinate collegeevents such as film festivals, athletic and recreationalcompetitions, health and wellness days, heritage andcultural displays, art shows and career fairs. Theseevents develop individual and group initiatives,teamwork and leadership skills. They provide thestudents with the opportunity to apply the skills theyhave learned, to support charitable causes and todemonstrate academic achievements.Financial AidThe HCT recognizes that some students may needassistance with meals and transportation costs.Students who require assistance are encouraged tocontact the College Student Services Supervisor orCollege Counselor for details regarding financial aid.Student Services can assist in various ways, suchas helping to organize temporary employment andproviding equipment.Safety and SecurityThe HCT is concerned that all individuals the studentsmeet are properly authorized to enter the campus. Allthe HCT campuses have security gates with securitypersonnel stationed at each entrance. These securityofficers will allow only those who are properlyauthorized to enter the campus.Security officers have the right to prevent femalestudents from leaving the college without permission,and to carry out random checks on student and staffvehicles.The HCT’s security officers are appointed for the safetyof the staff and students of the colleges, and should betreated with proper respect.Lockers are available for the safe keeping of books andpersonal belongings. The college is not responsible forlost items.Fire drillsIn case of fire, each college has procedures to follow.Students should learn the location of emergency exits,fire alarms and fire extinguishers. In the event of a firedrill or emergency, students must follow the directionsof the teachers or security personnel.Medical CasesIf students are seriously ill and their teacher needsto help them, she/he will call Student Services whowill provide assistance and contact their family. Anambulance will be called if necessary.Student CouncilsEach college has a Student Council for the purpose ofpermitting the student body to have an effective meansfor providing input to the staff and faculty to improveoverall student life. They are composed of studentsfrom the colleges. Student Councils also providemany opportunities for student growth and leadershipdevelopment such as:planning and organizing student activities;developing closer relationships between studentsand faculty;establishing a better atmosphere for learning;informing the college of student needs andrecommendation;developing leadership qualities; andimproving student morale.The name and organization of the councils and theirmembership may vary from college to college.Student representatives of all the colleges also meetand elect a system-wide HCT Student Council. Thiscommittee represents the wider HCT student bodyinside the country as well as abroad.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT23HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

24 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YStudents with Special NeedsUnder the conditions outlined in the policy document,Accommodations for Students with Special Needs,it is possible to provide reasonable academicaccommodation for students with special needs.providing opportunities to sponsor students to followregular programs. Sponsored students progresstowards graduation with the support of employers inreturn for the commitments specified in the sponsorshipagreement.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTStudents with special needs (e.g. physical, medicalor learning difficulties) may be eligible for extrasupport. This could take the form of special equipmentor materials, or additional time to complete courserequirements. Students are required to provideappropriate medical documentation detailing theirspecial need.It is important that students contact the Academic andStudent Services office at their college as early aspossible in order to obtain appropriate support.Sponsored Students and ProgramsIn partnership with industry, the Higher Colleges ofTechnology develops sponsored programs. Throughthese, graduates gain credentials by following aprogram of tailored courses established by closecollaboration between the HCT and employmentproviders and subject to agreement between them.Citi Foundation Bachelor ScholarshipsGraduates having completed a Higher Diploma andwishing to return to obtain their Bachelor of AppliedScience in Business are eligible for sponsorship througha Citi Foundation Scholarship. These scholarshipsbenefit students with a proven academic track record,allowing them to upgrade their qualifications inresponse to industry needs and to promote life-longlearning.Students on sponsored programs acquire a set ofknowledge, skills and attributes specifically sought bythe program sponsors.In addition to sponsored programs, the Higher Collegesof Technology forms partnerships with employers in24HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y25Learning ResourcesEach college features a Library and Learning Centrewhich provides resources that support the curriculumand services that develop and foster independentlearning and information literacy.LibrariesLibraries at the HCT are among the best equipped andmost extensive in the Gulf region. In addition to the fullrange of library collections and services, they featureadvanced information and learning technologies.Students have access to high-performance computersand extensive digital information resources.Library users can search the HCT web-based librarycatalogue to find and request books and materialshoused at any of the libraries within the system. A widevariety of online databases, to which the HCT librariessubscribe, provide full-text journal articles, e-books,and other electronic resources. All library resourcesare easy to access via http://library.hct.ac.ae.Resources available in each library include:general and course-related books that may beborrowed by students and staff;reference books for use in the library;local and international newspapers in print andonline;magazines and journals on a wide variety oftopics;aggregated databases featuring full-text articlesfrom journals and magazines;e-books, online documents and reports;graded readers, annual reports, pamphlets, andlocal newspaper clippings;instructional resources and kits;DVDs, videocassettes and audiocassettes;computer software.The HCT library collections consist of over 160,000titles, 320,000 items and many more online informationresources. In addition, HCT students and staff haveaccess to over 350,000 books through LIWA (www.liwa.ac.ae), the shared catalogue of the libraries of the HCT,United Arab Emirates University and Zayed University.Document delivery services from other UAE librariesare available through the interlibrary loan program.Perhaps the most valuable resources are the librariansand staff who assist students and faculty in each of thelibraries. Library staff help find the answers, from quickfacts to extensive research questions. Each libraryoffers individual and group instruction, with sessionsranging from general information literacy skills tospecific research techniques and resources in each areaof study.Learning CentresThe Independent/Enhanced Learning Centres providestudents with computers and a variety of interactivesoftware and print-based learning materials. Studentscan use the Learning Centre to develop their learningand study skills, improve their English language skills,review course materials, complete project assignments,or work with an instructor on a specific assignment.Resources available in each Learning Centre include:online learning materials for independentpractice, review, and study;interactive CD-ROM and other computer softwareprograms;audio CDs, and DVDs;language learning materials, equipment andfacilities;workbooks and special study materials.Textbooks and MaterialsTextbooks and other instructional items are providedby the colleges either free of charge or for a fee asdetermined by the Chancellor. Students are expected toequip themselves with routine personal items requiredfor classroom use.Instructional items provided by the college include:essential textbooks (students are required to payfor loss replacement)HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT25HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

26 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTmaterials, equipment and tools required forlaboratory and other practical instructionspecial clothing (e.g. uniforms, hard hats,protective boots, etc) which become the propertyof the students to whom they are issued.Internet AccessThe HCT Internet access and electronic mail servicesare provided under the authority of the Chancellorand the Vice Chancellor of the HCT in accordance withfederal laws and regulations governing the use of thisservice. Users of the Internet are governed by the HCTInternet Access and Electronic Mail Policy. Provision ofaccess to Internet resources and services is intendedto support the recognized need for HCT graduates topossess the computer and information-seeking skillsthat are essential for the workplace and for lifelongeducation.Copyright Policy and GuidelinesThe main objectives of the HCT Copyright Policy andGuidelines are:to ensure compliance with the provisions of UAEFederal Law No. 7, 2002;to establish and protect HCT ownership of allHCT produced materials;to provide guidelines in determining theapplication principles for interpretation of thelaw.The HCT acknowledges that the Ministry of Informationand Culture is regarded as the definitive source ofinformation on matters of intellectual property rights.26HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y27Academic FrameworkThe system of Higher Colleges of Technology may offer instructional programs in the credential levels of BachelorDegree, Higher Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and Diploma in the fields of Applied Communications, Business,Education, Engineering, Health Science and Information Technology. In addition, other preparatory or developmentprograms and educational opportunities are available to meet the special needs of students, employers andother agencies.BACHELOR DEGREEMinimum admissionrequirementsEach program mayrequire additionalprogram-specificadmission criteria.Four-year Bachelor Program Entry1. Complete the General School Certificate, and2. Complete the Common Educational Proficiency Assessment (CEPA) to thestandard as prescribed in the HCT Admission Policy and Program Regulations.3. Required Admission Levelsa. HCT Admission Index of 90 or greaterORb. CEPA English score of 175 with writing band 5 or equivalentc. CEPA Math score of 170 or greater, or equivalentd. ICDL or equivalentORe. Students who do not meet the required levels for English,Mathematics and IT can be placed at an appropriate level in theHCT Foundations Studies Program.One year post Higher Diploma entrySuccessful completion of a relevant qualifying HCT Higher Diploma,Program GPA 2.50. A student with a program GPA below 2.50 may submit aportfolio to be considered for admission provided the portfolio shows clearevidence that s/he has a minimum of two years relevant work experience.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTBACHELOR DEGREE (Continued)CredentialcharacteristicsHCT Bachelor programs prepare graduates for positions within a profession.Bachelor degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated:a systematic understanding of key aspects of their field of study, includingacquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge at least some of which is at oris informed by the forefront of defined aspects of their discipline (GraduateOutcomes 1, 2 and 7);an ability to evaluate, select and use tools and technologies appropriate fortheir field of employment (Graduate Outcomes 2 and 4);an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquirywithin their discipline (Graduate Outcome 7);27HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

28 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTCredentialcharacteristicsconceptual understanding that enables them:to devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems usingideas and techniques, some of which are at the forefront of theirdiscipline (Graduate Outcomes 1, 2 and 7);to describe and comment upon particular aspects of currentresearch, or equivalent advanced scholarship, in their discipline(Graduate Outcomes 1, 2 and 7);an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge(Graduate Outcomes 2 and 5);an ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of scholarly reviewsand primary sources (e.g. referred research articles and/or original materialsappropriate to their discipline) (Graduate Outcomes 1, 4 and 5);an ability to apply the methods and techniques that they have learned toreview, consolidate, extend and apply their knowledge and understanding, andto initiate and carry out projects (Graduate Outcomes 2, 5 and 6);an ability to critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract conceptsand qualitative and quantitative data (that may be incomplete), to makejudgments, and to frame appropriate questions to achieve a solution oridentify a range of solutions to a problem (Graduate Outcomes 2 and 8);an ability to make connections between a range of environmental and ethicalissues in both global and UAE contexts and an awareness of the individualcitizen’s social responsibility with respect to those issues (Graduate Outcome3);an ability to communicate information, ideas, problems, and solutions toboth specialist and non-specialist audiences using a range of tools (GraduateOutcomes 1, 2 and 4);qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment (GraduateOutcomes 1 to 8), requiring:the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility;decision-making in complex and unpredictable contexts;the learning ability needed to undertake appropriatefurther training of a professional or equivalent nature;the ability to function effectively in teams, both as teammember and leader.Minimum structureRequirementsGraduationRequirements8-semesterSemesters: 8 (excluding Foundations or equivalent)Credits: 176Work Experience: 8 weeks full-time (8 credits)2-semesterSemesters: 2 (post-Higher Diploma or equivalent)Credits: 38Successful completion of all program major requirementsProgram GPA 2.0For progression to Year 4 of a 4-year Bachelor Degree, a student must achievean overall band of 5.5 with no skill below 5.0 in the International EnglishLanguage Testing Systems (Academic module).28HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y29HIGHER DIPLOMAMinimumadmissionrequirementsCredentialcharacteristics1. Complete the General School Certificate, and2. Complete the Common Educational Proficiency Assessment (CEPA) to thestandard as prescribed in the HCT Admission Policy and Program Regulations.3. Required Admission Levelsa. HCT Admission Index of 90 or greaterORb. CEPA English score of 175 with writing band 5 or equivalentc. CEPA Math score of 170 or greater, or equivalentd. ICDL or equivalentORe. Students who do not meet the required levels for English, Mathematicsand IT can be placed at an appropriate level in the HCT FoundationsStudies Program.HCT Higher Diploma programs prepare graduates for entry-level positions within theirfield of study. Higher Diplomas are awarded to students who have demonstrated:knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles oftheir field of study, and of the way in which those principles have developed(Graduate Outcomes 1, 2 and 7);an ability to select and use tools and technologies appropriate for their field ofemployment (Graduate Outcomes 4 and 7);an ability to apply underlying concepts and principles outside the context inwhich they were first studied including, where appropriate, the application ofthose principles in an employment context (Graduate Outcome 7);knowledge of the main methods of enquiry in their subject(s), and abilityto evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solvingproblems in the field of study (Graduate Outcomes 2 and 7);an understanding of the limits of their knowledge, and how this influencesanalysis and interpretation based on that knowledge (Graduate Outcomes 2 and5);an ability to use a range of established techniques to initiate and undertakecritical analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data, and to proposesolutions to problems arising from that analysis (Graduate Outcomes 2, 4, 5 and8);an ability to effectively communicate information, arguments and analysis, ina variety of forms, to specialist and non-specialist audiences, and deploy keytechniques of the discipline effectively (Graduate Outcomes 1, 4 and 8);an ability to identify, analyze and communicate solutions to a range ofenvironmental and ethical issues relating to their field of study in both global andUAE contexts (Graduate Outcomes 1, 2 and 3);an ability to undertake further training, develop existing skills, both individuallyand as a team member, and acquire new competences that will enable them toassume significant responsibility within organizations (Graduate Outcomes 5 and6); andthe qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring theexercise of personal responsibility and decision-making (Graduate Outcomes 1 to8).HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT29HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

30 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YMinimumstructurerequirementsSemesters: 6Credits: 120Work Experience: 8 weeks full-time (8 credits)MinimumGraduationrequirementsSucccessful completion of all program requirementsProgram GPA of 2.0IELTS overall band 5.5 with no band below 5.0HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCT[1] One HCT credit represents:• One semester hour for face-to-face instruction• Two semester hours for laboratory, workshop, practicum or preceptorship• One week of full-time Work ExperienceOne semester hour represents: sixteen learning hours30HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G Y31Program AccreditationTo ensure programs at the Higher Colleges of Technology are benchmarked to international standards, the HCThas developed strategic relationships with a range of external accreditation bodies, both in the UAE and abroad.Program quality and consistency is also achieved through accreditation with recognized international bodies.Program of StudyApplied CommunicationsAccreditation/BenchmarkingThe Higher Diploma in Applied Media Studies is benchmarked by the AmericanCommunication Association (ACA), USA.BusinessEducationEngineering TechnologySelected Business programs are accredited by the Association of CollegiateBusiness Schools and Programs, (ACBSP), USA.eBusiness Management programs are benchmarked against BTEC/EdExcel.The Bachelor of Education degree in English Language Teaching in Schools(ELTS) is benchmarked with the University of Melbourne, Australia.The Education Division has been accepted as a candidate for accreditation forthe Bachelor of Education degree in English Language Teaching in Schools(ELTS) through the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), USA.The Diploma in Classroom Assistant is accredited by the Scottish QualificationsAuthority (SQA), UK.Chemical Engineering programs are accredited by the Chemical EngineeringInstitute of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), UK.The Aviation programs are licensed by the UAE General Civil AviationAuthority.The Civil Engineering Technology Higher Diploma and Bachelor of AppliedScience programs are accredited by the ABET-Technology AccreditationCommission (ABET-TAC), USA.HCT Catalogue 2010/2011 Overview of the HCTHealth SciencesInformation TechnologyThe BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology program is accredited by theInstitute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK.The Bachelor of Applied Science in Nursing is benchmarked with the Universityof Oklahoma, USA.The BSc Health Education is benchmarked with the University of Oklahoma,USA.The BSc Medical Imaging is benchmarked with the University of Oklahoma,USA.The Bachelor of Pharmacy program was reviewed by the Canadian Council forAccreditation of Pharmacy (CCAP) in 2007.The Higher Diploma Paramedics program is externally reviewed throughHarrisburg Community College, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Graduates areeligible to undergo the Department of Transportation (DOT) National Registryexam.The BAS in Health Information Management program is seeking accreditationthrough the Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA).The Higher Diploma program in Computer Network Technology isbenchmarked by Cisco Systems, USA.The HCT BAS and HD programs are accredited by the Canadian InformationProcessing Society (CIPS), Canada.31HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011

32 H I G H E R C O L L E G E S O F T E C H N O L O G YHCT Catalogue 2010/2011 General Education Division32HCT Catalogue | 2010/2011