Shippensburg University’s College of Arts and Sciences grew this semester with the establishment of the school of engineering.
The engineering programs are the only accredited engineering programs in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.
Previously known as the department of computer science and engineering, the new school of engineering will be home to the departments of computer science; computer, electrical and software engineering and civil and mechanical engineering.
School of engineering director Carol Wellington is very excited for the new opportunities students will have through the school creation.
As a separate school, more diverse courses can be offered, and the overall efficiency of the program will improve.
“From the creation of our first engineering program in 2012, we have created a total of five new programs that are growing, gaining respect from the people who hire our graduates and giving our students new options for what they can study,” Wellington said.
The school of engineering will soon find itself a new home. The old steam plant off of North Prince Street near campus will be transformed for the 337 students currently enrolled in the school.
The plant will act as the hub for engineering students. This new space will hold labs and an open area for students to build the projects that they design.
Funding for the project has already been approved and the conversion of the former steam plant will begin soon.
“The creation of the school is a milestone, and we expect to continue to grow from here,” Wellington said.
Through classroom and hands-on-experience, students are hopeful that this distinction will catch future employer’s eyes, according to an SU press release. SU spoke of the importance of the school of engineering’s establishment for students, the university and the community.
“The creation of these programs is a direct response to forecasted needs for engineers in the commonwealth. Ship’s programs prepare students to immediately enter the workforce by blending the teaching of theory with hands-on experience,” an SU press release stated.
For more information, visit www.ship.edu/engineering.
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