Queen Mary University of London has launched its annual UK wide computer science talent competition for prospective students - with prizes worth almost £30,000 and the support of Microsoft.
Up for grabs in BrainAcademy 2005 are a place on an undergraduate computer science degree course at the college, starting in 2006 with all tuition fees paid; postgraduate degree bursaries; study abroad; and other unique career opportunities. The competition is just one way in which Queen Mary is demonstrating its commitment to widening access to university education.
BrainAcademy 2005 closes on September 14. The challenging competition involves an online research quiz to qualify for the programming challenge, followed by a tough interview for the finalists.
With diversity as a requirement, BrainAcademy is open to people of all ages throughout the UK, whether school leavers, students, or those in the workplace wanting to advance their career. Winners will be announced in December for entry to study in 2006.
The competition is bigger and better this year, with more prizes and three winners instead of one. For the first time, postgraduates can enter BrainAcademy, with two places and bursaries for Computer Science Masters degree programmes at Queen Mary starting in 2006.
The undergraduate winner will be guaranteed a fast-track interview for the popular Microsoft student intern programme and, upon successful graduation, a fast-track interview for the coveted Microsoft graduate programme. Winners are also in line for Microsoft software, laptops, textbooks and cash prizes. Kevin McDaniel, academic group manager, Microsoft, said: " Microsoft is delighted to be again working with Queen Mary, University of London and supporting its annual computer science bursary competition."
Dr Paul Curzon, of Queen Mary's Department of Computer Science and in charge of this year's competition, said: "BrainAcademy is a fun way to find the most talented students and give them the life-changing opportunity of a university education."
* To enter the BrainAcademy competition, visit: brainacademy.qmul.ac.uk
