SUU introduces new mechanical engineering degree
By Nikki Koontz
The Southern Utah University Board of Trustees has approved an expansion of the SUU engineering program with the addition of a bachelor of science degree program in mechanical engineering. Current students have already started transitioning to the new degree, and the first mechanical engineering graduates may graduate as early as fall 2018. New students can enroll for the program starting in the 2018 fall semester.
This new program will allow students to further specialize their education and prepare them for a highly-favorable job market. The high job-placement rate for SUU engineering graduates will continue to increase as students receive a degree tailored to mechanical engineering.
“This is a great day for engineering at SUU,” said Dr. Robert L. Eves, Dean of the Walter Maxwell Gibson College of Science and Engineering. “We are so excited about this new opportunity for our students, the interest it will create in SUU engineering, and the supply of well prepared and competent engineers that this program will produce. Mechanical engineering is in high demand nationally, and we are excited to supply our graduates to the growing demand of potential employers.”
The SUU engineering program added new faculty members with expertise in mechanical engineering to accommodate the new mechanical engineering degree. Students will now have the option to pursue the bachelor of science in engineering (a broad-based engineering degree) or major in mechanical engineering.
Dr. Scott Munro, associate chair of the engineering and technology department, recognizes the need for mechanical engineers nationally and knows prepared SUU students will meet the demand.
“Mechanical engineering is a broad discipline in high demand, so our graduates will be able to engage in engineering careers locally, across the state, and all over the country,” said Munro. “Expanding the engineering program will also help persuade companies considering southern Utah as a location. They will have a talent pool of qualified engineers to fill positions locally as well as being able to leverage the technical expertise of SUU, potentially creating partnerships that enhance the student experience and benefit the company and the community.”
SUU’s ABET-accredited engineering bachelor’s degree program produces over a dozen graduates each year. Class sizes are small, allowing each student direct access to their highly-qualified instructors. Professors become dynamic advisors, helping to ensure the understanding of key concepts and navigating through graduate school and career decisions.
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