OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
Raising Excellence in Engineering Education
Dearesteemedreaders,
Engineeringeducationisevolvingtomeetthedemandsofadynamicglobaleconomy Embracinginterdisciplinarylearning,collegesfuseengineeringwithfieldslikebusiness, computerscience,anddesign,producingholisticproblemsolvers.Hands-onlearning throughmakerspacesanddesignlabsequipsstudentswithpracticalskills.Coursesin emergingtechnologieslikeartificialintelligencepreparegraduatesforthefuture.
Challengespersist,includingafacultyshortage,risingeducationcosts,andstaying currentwithtechnology.Despitetheseobstacles,collegesintroduceinnovativeprograms, collaboratewithindustryleaders,andprioritizediversityandinclusionefforts.Ina changingworld,engineeringeducationremainsattheforefront,shapingthenext generationofengineersreadytoaddresspressingglobalissues.
Withavigilanteyeontheever-evolvingtrendsinengineeringeducation,wearepleased tointroduceourlatestmagazineissue,“The10EliteEngineeringCollegesof2023.”In thisedition,wehighlightinstitutionsattheforefrontofinnovation,industrypartnerships, anddiversityinitiatives,shapingtheengineersoftomorrow.Discovertheremarkable achievementsofthesetop-tiercollegesasweexplorethefutureofengineeringeducation.
We'rethrilledtoshowcaseOklahomaStateUniversityonourcover,anexemplarof excellenceinengineeringeducation.Inharmonywiththetrendsandinnovationsexplored inthisissue.Discoverhowthisinstitution,muchliketheelitecollegeswe'vespotlighted, isleadingthechargeinpreparingfutureengineersforourever-evolvingworld.
Inadditiontoourin-depthcoverageofthetopengineeringcolleges,wealsohighlighta diverserangeofinstitutionsinthisissue,suchastheUniversityofTexasPermianBasin, BrowardCollege,JacksonvilleUniversity,andUniversityofArchitecture,Civil Engineering,andGeodesy.Eachoftheseschoolsbringsuniquestrengthsandinnovations totheforefrontofeducation,offeringacomprehensiveviewofthedynamiclandscapeof higherlearning.
Happyreading!
Tejas Tahmankar Project Editor
From The Editor’s Desk
People Behind This Issue
Publisher: Archana Ghule
Editor–in–Chief: Vikram Suryawanshi
Managing Editor: Pankaj Gholap
Project Editor: Tejas Tahmankar
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10 OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
Oklahoma State University www.ceat.okstate.edu
Brigham Young University - Hawaii www.byuh.edu University of Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Geodesy www.uacg.bg/?l=2 Jacksonville University www.ju.edu.com
www.catholic.edu
www.queens.edu
www.utpb.edu
www.uwindsor.ca
OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
Bridging Knowledge and Application for a Changing World
COVERSTORY
OOverthepast133years,Oklahoma StateUniversityhasremaineda pioneerineducationalevolution, adjustingtoshiftsintechnologyand society Thejourneyofeducation withinitswallshasprogressedfrom traditionalteachingmethodsto encompassanamalgamationof innovativetechniques,digitaltools, andinterdisciplinaryapproaches. Throughoutthistransformative voyage,theuniversityhashelda pivotalroleinshapingeducation, embracingfreshparadigms,and readyingstudentsfortheeverchangingworld’schallengesand prospects.
Duringtheseyears,theworldhas witnessedfourindustrialrevolutions, eachleavinganenduringimpression oneducation.Fromtheepochofwater andsteam-poweredmassproductionto thecurrenteraofinternet-drivenmass customization,theuniversityhas sustainedacommitmenttofurnishing itsstudentswiththeknow-how, competencies,andmindsetessential fornavigatingthisswiftlychanging landscape.
Inthiscontext,thedecisiontoselect therightcollegetakesonparamount significance.Optingforaninstitution suchasOklahomaStateUniversity becomesaninvestmentinafuturethat prizesnotonlycomprehensionof existingtechnologiesbutalsothe
capacitytoenvisionandshapethe technologiesoftomorrow.By cultivatinganentrepreneurialspirit, fosteringinterdisciplinary collaboration,andadvocatingforwardthinkingmethodologies,theuniversity empowersstudentstoboldlyconfront theuncertaintiesofthefuture.
OklahomaStateUniversity’sCollege ofEngineering,Architecture,and Technology(CEAT)servesasaprime illustrationofthisfuture-oriented educationalphilosophy Through dispensededucationacrossmultiple disciplines,thecultivationof innovativethinking,andthe accentuationofadaptability,the collegeassuresthatitsstudentsare aptlyequippedforaworld characterizedbyswiftchangeand unforeseenopportunities.
ShapingGlobalCitizens:The MultifacetedApproach
OklahomaStateUniversity,established onChristmasDayin1890asalandgrantinstitution,isabeaconof educationalexcellenceandglobal impact.Withasteadfastmissionto advancenotonlyitsregionandstate buttheentireworld,theuniversityis deeplycommittedtofosteringhighqualityteaching,pioneeringresearch, andextensiveoutreach.Embracingits land-grantheritage,OklahomaState Universitydiligentlystrivestoenhance lives,expandknowledge,andcultivate economicopportunitiesforitscitizens andtheglobalcommunity.
Guidedbyasteadfastsetofcore values—community,diversity,service, stewardshipofresources,excellence, integrity,andintellectualfreedom—the OSUfamilylivesbytheCowboy Code.Thiscodeinspiresmembersto dreamexpansively,upholdethicsand responsibility,approachchallenges withsincerityandintegrity,transform
obstaclesintoopportunities,and passionatelypursuepositivechange. Thesevaluesresonatethroughoutthe university’sactivities,curriculum,and practices,shapingatransformative institutioncommittedtocreatinga diverse,sustainable,andeffective worldforall.
FosteringExcellencethrough ComprehensiveAcademicOfferings
CEAToffersacomprehensiverangeof academicprograms,cateringtodiverse interestsandfosteringexcellencein architecture,engineering,and technology Withmorethan15 undergraduatemajors,studentshave theopportunitytoexplorethese dynamicfields,equippingthemselves withtheskillsandinsightsneededto excelintheirchosenareas.These programsestablishastrongfoundation, cultivatingadeepunderstandingof subjectswhilenurturinginnovation andcriticalthinking.
Forthosepursuingadvanced knowledgeandspecialization,the instituteoffersmorethan20masters anddoctoralprograms,afewofwhich areavailableonlineforaccessibility andflexibility Thiscommitmentto providingvariouslearningoptions underscorestheinstitute’sdedicationto meetingthediverseneedsand aspirationsofitsstudents.
Adefiningaspectoftheinstitute’s approachisitsproactiveengagement withalumniandemployers.This uniqueconnectionfacilitatesa continuousexchangeofinsights, ensuringthatprogramsremainaligned withindustrychangesand requirements.Thedynamicnatureof architecture,engineering,and technologydemandsongoing curriculumevaluationandrevision,a responsibilitytheinstitutetakes seriously.Byconsistentlyadaptingand
evolving,studentsgaintheknowledge andtoolsdemandedbytheindustry, enablingthemnotonlytocompetebut alsotothriveandinnovateinarapidly changingeconomiclandscape.
CultivatinganInclusiveCampus Community
Theinstitute’scampusembodiesa dynamiccommunity,andthe universityissteadfastinitsdedication toprovidinganenrichingstudent experience,spanningfromthe compositionoffacultyandstaffto studentrepresentation.Theseoffices cultivateanenvironmentinwhichall
individualsareempoweredtoprosper, contribute,andexcel.
Studentclubsplayapivotalrolein shapingawelcomingcampusculture. Theseclubsactivelyparticipateinand amplifystudentvoices.
Acknowledgingthesignificanceof accessandopportunity,theinstitute offersnumerousscholarshipsand tailoredstudy-abroadoptionsfor studentsfromeverywalkoflife.
Inrecentyears,deliberateeffortshave beenmadetonurtureSTEMeducation insurroundingschoolsandareas.This proactiveapproachnotonlycultivates
interestandtalentbutalsoservesas acatalystforgrowth,broadeningthe horizonsofindividualsand communitiesalike.
Fromdedicatedresourcecentersto mentorshipprograms,theinstitute placesapremiumonholisticwellbeing,mentalhealth,andfosteringa senseofbelonging.Byfosteringan environmentwheredifferent perspectivesareembracedand celebrated,theinstituteenhancesthe campusenvironment,empowering studentstowardthecollective pursuitofknowledgeand advancement.
PersonalizedLearningandSupportatOklahoma StateUniversity
OklahomaStateUniversitydemonstratesits commitmenttofosteringpersonalizedandengaging educationalexperiencesthroughastudent-teacher ratioof20:1.Thisratiounderscorestheuniversity’s dedicationtoprovidingstudentswithmeaningful accessandcloseinteractionwiththeiradvisors, instructors,andeventheuniversity’sleadership.With afocusonindividualattentionandsupport,thefaculty andstaffproactivelyaddressstudentconcernsand fulfilltheiracademicrequirements.
Theuniversity’scommitmenttostudentwell-beingis furtherexemplifiedbyitscomprehensiveUniversity CounselingServices,whichofferanarrayofdiverse resources.Theseresourcesaretailoredtoprovideboth clinicalandacademicsupport,ensuringthatstudents possessthenecessarytoolstonavigatetheir educationaljourneysuccessfully.Bymaintainingan environmentconducivetolearningandgrowth throughthisbalancedratioandrobustsupport systems,OklahomaStateUniversityempowersits studentstoexcelbothacademicallyandpersonally
EmpoweringStudentsthroughCutting-Edge TechnologyandCollaboration
OklahomaStateUniversityremainssteadfastinits commitmenttobestowstudentswithanunparalleled educationalencounterthatharnessesthepotencyof themostrecenttechnologies.Theinstitute’s determinationtoutilizecutting-edgetoolsand resourcesisunmistakableacrossitsclassrooms, facilities,laboratories,andconveniences.
Studentsattheuniversityenjoyaccesstotheforefront oftechnology,empoweringthemtodelveinto, pioneer,andcraftusingstate-of-the-artapparatus.The presenceofnumerouscollaborativespacescultivates anatmospherewhereteamworkthrives,enabling studentstoembarkonprojectsincontemporary, cutting-edgeinstallations.Thisemphasison collaborativeendeavorsnotonlyenrichesthelearning processbutalsopreparesstudentsforthe collaborativeessenceoftoday’svocationalpanorama.
Moreover,theinstitute’sendeavorsinfaculty revitalizationascertainthatburgeoningresearchand practicesharmoniouslyinterlacewiththeclassroom
COVERSTORY
experience.Thisinfusionofnovelviewpointsandpresent industryinclinationsensuresthatstudentsareabsorbingnot solelytheorybutalsoinsightsintoreal-worldapplications ofthemostrecentadvancements.
Anexceptionalfacetoftheinstitute’sstrategyisits commitmenttointerdisciplinaryseniordesignprojects.By immersingstudentsinundertakingsthatconfront monumentalchallengesspanningamyriadofdisciplines, theuniversityequipsthemwiththecompetenciesand outlooknecessarytotackleintricate,real-world predicaments.Thisapproachnotonlynurturesinventive thinkingbutalsocultivatesacomprehensivegraspofhow technologycanbeharnessedtoformulatemeaningful solutions.
NurturingProficiencyandInnovationinEngineering Education
OklahomaStateUniversity’sABET-accredited undergraduateprogramsexemplifyahands-on,industryfocusedapproachtoengineeringeducationspanning diversedisciplines.Anchoredina21st-centurycurriculum, studentsreceivetheknowledge,skills,andpractical experienceimperativeforaseamlesstransitionintothe professionalsphere.
Atthecoreofthispreparationliesthecutting-edgeteaching laboratory,ENDEAVOR,whichfunctionsasadynamic nexusforimmersivelearningencounters.Withinthisspace, studentsencountercutting-edgetechnologiesandtools, acquiringpracticalinsightsthattranscendtheoretical comprehension.Thistactilemethodnotonlyenhancestheir problem-solvingproficienciesbutalsonurturesaprofound graspofthereal-worldapplicationofengineering principles.
Theuniversity’sesteemedfacultyactivelyengrossedin pioneeringresearchassumerolesasmentorsandguides, bridgingthegapbetweentheoryandpractice.Bydirectly incorporatingtheirresearchdiscoveriesintotheclassroom, studentsareexposedtothelatestadvancementsandare promptedtoexperimentwithemergingtheoriesand technologies.Thisdirectlinktorealitynotonlykeepsthe curriculumcontemporaneousbutalsoinstillsacultureof innovationandadaptability
Throughthesecomprehensiveendeavors,OklahomaState Universitypreparesitsstudentsforindustryandimbues themwithresilienceagainstfuturechallenges.Byproviding auniqueamalgamationoftheoreticalunderstanding,handsoninvolvement,andexposuretocutting-edgetechnologies, theuniversityempowersitsgraduatestoconfidentlyenter
theprofessionalsphere,contributesignificantlytotheir domains,andspearheadtransformativechangesintheeverevolvinglandscapeofengineeringandtechnology
LaunchingGraduatesintoThrivingCareersacross Industries
Theinstituteopensanavenueofcompellingcareer opportunitiesforitsgraduatingstudents,positioningthemat theforefrontofadiversearrayofindustriesandFortune500 companies.Withaverifiedhistoryofachievement, graduatesoftheinstitutearepreparedtoembarkon gratifyingandimpactfulcareersacrossabroadspectrumof fields.
FromprominentnameslikeAppletopioneeringinnovators likeSpaceXandTesla,studentsfindthemselvesbecoming partofesteemedcompaniesthatencompassboththe manufacturingandservicesectors.Thenotablestarting salaries,frequentlyexceedingUSD70,000,emphasizethe institute’scommitmenttonurturingtop-tierprofessionals whoareactivelysoughtbyindustryleaders.
Therangeofindustriesembracingthesegraduatesis extensive,spanningfromaerospace,architecture,and biomedicinetorenewableenergy,softwareengineering,and
beyond.Graduatescontributesignificantlyin realmsasvariedashealthcare,defense,oiland gas,semiconductormanufacturing, transportation,andmore.Theextentofthese prospectsunderscorestheinstitute’s comprehensiveeducationalapproach,which generatesgraduatesarmedwithadaptableskills applicabletonumerousdomains.
Areflectionofthequalityofeducationfurnished bytheinstituteisthefactthatmanyofitsalumni advancetoseniorleadershiproleswithintheir respectiveindustries.Thiseloquently demonstratestheinstitute’sroleinmoldingnot solelyemployeesbutforward-thinkingleaders whosteerinnovation,leadteams,andinfluence thetrajectoryoftheirsectors.
EnrichingCampusLife:AMultitudeof Student-LedExperiences
OklahomaStateUniversitycultivatesavibrant andinclusivecampusenvironmentenrichedbya widerangeofextracurricularactivitiesand resourcestailoredtothediversepassionsand interestsofitsstudents.
“
CEAT provides hands-on learning in an environment that promotes interdisciplinary engagement to solve real-world challenges
Withineachfieldofstudy,dedicatedstudentorganizations empowerstudentstotakecontroloftheirextracurricular experiences.Theseorganizationsprovideplatformsfor planning,organizing,andexecutingactivitiesthatalign withthedistinctiveaspectsofeachdiscipline.Thishandsonengagementenablesstudentstodeepentheir comprehension,connectwithlike-mindedpeers,and developpracticalskillsbeyondtheconfinesofthe classroom.
Alongsidediscipline-specificgroups,theuniversityboasts animpressiveassortmentofmorethan500clubsand organizations.Thisextensiveselectionpermitsstudentsto pursuetheirinterests,discovernewpassions,andconnect withadiversecommunityofindividualswhosharesimilar inclinations.Beitacademic,cultural,athletic,social,or service-oriented,thereexistsanicheforeverystudentto participate,learn,andflourish.
Theseextracurricularundertakingsextendbeyondpersonal growthandenjoyment;theyalsonurturevaluablelifeskills, fosterleadershipdevelopment,andcultivateasenseof community.Studentshavetheprospectoffullyimmersing themselvesinexperiencesthatcomplementtheiracademic pursuits,contributetotheirpersonaladvancement,and establishenduringconnectionswiththeirpeers.
“From summer camps to teacher programs to engaging with the community, we want to make sure everyone is introduced to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) at an early age.”
High-Quality STEM Education with Innovation and Excellence
Theeconomicsuccessofastateisdirectlydeterminedbythequalityofitseducational policies.Hence,ensuringqualityeducationisveryessential,especiallyduringthepursuit ofhigherstudies.Itisaboutmakingsurethatappropriateandeffectiveteaching,support, assessment,andlearningopportunitiesareprovidedforthem.“Transforming students' lives and enriching our diverse community through academic excellence, innovation, and meaningful career opportunities,”highlightsthemissionofBrowardCollege,whichiscommittedtoprovidingthe highestqualityeducationinaffordableandaccessibleapproaches.
Establishedin1960,BrowardCollegeisoneofFlorida'slargestpubliccolleges.Originallynamed theJuniorCollegeofBrowardCounty,BrowardCollegewascreatedasapartofanetworkofthe country'stwo-yearcolleges.ItwasfurtherrenamedBrowardCommunityCollegeafterward.In 2008,thecollegewasfinallynamed'BrowardCollege'—whenitwasgrantedtheapprovaltooffer four-yearbachelor'sdegrees.Thecollegeisspreadacrossthreecampusesandvariouscenters throughoutBrowardCounty.Currently,itishometoover60,000studentsonanannualbasiswitha hugefacultyandstaffcomposedofmorethan2000.In2021,UniversityHQrankedBroward CollegethemostaffordablecollegeinFloridafrommorethan100highereducation.
AbundantAcademicOpportunities
BrowardCollegeiscommittedtofosteringalearning-centeredcommunitywhichcelebrates diversityandinclusionbyempoweringandengagingstudents,faculty,andstaff.Beitatraditional oranon-traditionalstudent,afirst-generationcollegestudent,orastudentfromalow-income community,thecollegecouplesitscommitmentwithimmensesupporttoguidestudentstowards success.
BrowardCollegeoffersseveralacademicservicestoitsstudentsthroughthefollowinginitiatives:
AcademicSuccessCenter(ASC)–Providesavarietyofqualitysupportservicesinacomfortable, collaborativeatmosphere.ServicesprovidedbytheASCincludecertifiedtutorsandonlinetutoring services,collaborativeprojectspace,laptoploans,andopencomputercenters withprintingand scanningaccess.
AccessibilityResources-Ensuresseamlessaccesstoall BrowardCollegeprograms,activities,andservicesand promotescollege-wideaccessthatleadstoaninclusiveand equitableopportunityforstudentswithdisabilities.
CareerCenterandtheCareerServicesTeam-Helpswith choosingamajor,exploringcareerpathways,adviceon resumes,jobsearches,internships,practiceinterviews,and othercareer-relatedactivities.
SeahawkOutreachServices(SOS)-Provideswrap-around servicesandholisticsupporttostudentsbyconnectingthemto keycampusresourcesandreferringthemtocommunity organizations.Itsgoalistohelpreducefoodandhousing insecurities,stress/mentalhealthchallenges,homelessness, andfinancialobstaclesamongthestudentpopulation.
EnrichedCollegeExperience
Everyhighereducationinstitutionmuststrivetoproduce graduatesbyofferingopportunitiesforpersonaldevelopment andcivicengagement—transitioningstudentsintoresponsible andactivecitizens.BrowardCollegeoffersanencompassing teachingexperiencewhichgoesbeyondwhatistaughtin classrooms.
BrowardCollegeconstitutesarichstudentlifenetwork offeringabundantopportunitiessuchascommunity outreachinitiatives,andfunactivities.Thecollegealso providesstudentstheoptiontoparticipate ineventsithosts suchastheannualHackathon,mostofwhichwere availableevenduringthepandemic.
Duringthepandemic,thecollegeadoptedaremotelearning environmentbyhostingeventsviazoomandother streamingandinteractiveplatforms.BrowardCollege highlybelievesthatcollegeisatimetobroadenhorizons andbuildreal-lifeexperiences,andoffersaplethoraof activitiesforthestudents.Thesearenamely—student government,clubs,volunteeringandphilanthropy,cultural presentations,civicdialog,andstudyabroadprograms.
SupervisedbyIdealisticMindset
AtthecoreofBrowardCollege,Dr.NicholeVaughan (DeanofScienceandWellness)workscollaboratively withthefacultytodevelophigh-qualityacademic programs.Beingasenior-leveladministrator,shebeholds experienceinareasofcurriculumdevelopment,assessing institutionaleffectiveness,managingdepartmentresources includingbudgets,facilitiesandphysicalassets,faculty
development,andperformancereviews.
Peopleatthecollegeworktogethertoaccomplishits goalsandmissions.Dr.Vaughansupervisestheassociate deansforthedepartment,andalsoworksincollaboration withotherdeansanddistrictdirectorsatthecollegeas wellasinstitutionleadershiptomaximizeopportunities forensuringstudentsuccess.
'STEMEducation'forAcademicBenefits
Asacriticalaspecttothenation'songoingeconomic success,BrowardCollegeemphasizesSTEMEducation initscurriculumasitdrivesinnovationandthe generationofnewideas.STEMeducationinvolvesa seamlessintegrationoffourcornerstones—computer technology;mathematicalscience;engineering;and natural,physical,andlifescience.Althoughemployment inSTEMeducationhasgrownovertheyears,ashortage ofSTEMprofessionalsgraduatingfromprograms continuestoexist.
TopromoteandstrengthenSTEMeducation,the DepartmentofEducation,ingeneral,hasinvestedmore than$500million.Theinvestmentaimstoprovide avenuesforcurriculumdevelopmentandaccessto materials,torecruitandtraininnovativeSTEM educators,aswellasinvestmentinattractingmore diverserepresentation.Tothriveintheglobal competition,theSTEMinvestmentmustbearvariedand diverseresultsintheSTEMcurriculuminelementary schools.Thisshouldfurtherincorporatehands-on learningandreal-worldapplicationsinordertopromote STEMeducationtochildrenatanearlyage.
LeveragingPotentialsofSTEM
LeveragingthepotentialsandpossibilitiesofSTEM Education,BrowardCollegeoffersmorethan33 programsinculcatingSTEM.Theseincludeeight programsattheassociatedegreelevelandfouratthe baccalaureatedegreelevelalongwithvariedtechnical certificates.Thesearenamely—SpatialComputing, InformationTechnology,CloudandVirtualization Analyst,CybersecurityAnalyst,InformationTechnology Management,WebDevelopment,andmanymore.
BrowardCollegelooksfortwoimportantareaspriorto enrollingstudentsforSTEMeducation.These are—interestindiscovery,andtheabilitytoengageinan
Students are at the heart of everything we do.Always have been.Always will be. “
inquirytofinditssolutions.Todothis,studentsneedtobe problemsolversandpossessstronganalyticalandcriticalthinkingskills.STEMstudentsalsoneedtobeableto communicatewellandworkcollaborativelywithothers towardacommongoal.Additionalskillssuchasbeing adaptable,creative,andpersistentarealsoimportant.
EscortingthroughVastOpportunities
Withanabundanceintheavailabilityofengineeringcolleges aroundtheworld,studentsshouldemphasizethreeimportant areasbeforeoptingforacollegetopursuehigherstudies.The firstoneistheavailableacademicmajors.Studentsshould enquirewhethertheconcernedcollegeisofferingtheir preferredmajorandastrongnetworkforplacementin internshipsorcareercounseling.
Secondly,studentsshouldseekforaffordabilityand availabilityofscholarshipsattheirdesiredinstitution.They shouldkeeplookingoutfortheavailabilityofwork-studyor jobsoncampusinaccordancewiththeirfinancialsituation. Thethirdimportantaspectisthediversityofthecampus. Studentsshouldkeepinmindwhetherthecampusfeels inclusiveandprovidesimportantservicestothemwhile decidingwhethertheyfeelrepresentedornot.
AdaptingtoChangingEducationalSpheres
Dr Vaughanstatesthatsheexpectsarenewedpushtoreturn tonormalcyforthe2021-22academicyearandon-campus learning.Sheaddsthatstudentswillhavetoadapttothenew normaloflearninginnewways,bymerginglessonslearned fromremotelearningwithon-campusexperience.“Faculty and students will need to be creative in how they can safely interact with each other, which may lead to novel methods of engagement.”SaysDr Vuaghan
JACK SONVILLE UNIVERSIT Y
Collaborative Learning Curriculum
Inculcating
Engineeringcollegesaroundtheworldareconstantly adapting unique approaches to their curriculums. While a few strive to provide effective learning programs with cogent career management procedures, a handful actually succeed. Jacksonville University is a leading private institution truly committed to combining the ield of engineering with robust career management programs. Located in northeast Florida, the university integrates effective, career-building learning experiences withitsengineeringcurriculum.
Establishedin1934andrecognizedasan“America’sBest College”intheSouthformorethan15consecutiveyearsby US News & World Report, the university’s main campus stands on a beautiful riverfront setting in suburban Jacksonville,acrosstheSt JohnsRiverfromdowntownand justminutesfromtheAtlanticOcean.The250-acrecampus harborsahalf-mileofriverfront,oak-linedpaths,andamix ofhistoricandnewcampusbuildings.
Effectual Curriculum
Jacksonville University is home to an ethnically and geographicallydiverse,predominantlyundergraduate
student body, including adult learners, in select undergraduate, master’s, doctorate, and professional certi ication programs. The university's effectual learning experience emphasizes applied skills, cocurricularcareeropportunitiesandthecombinationof professional preparation with a strong liberal arts foundation.Itoffersmorethan100majors,minorsand programs,includingdegreesindistinctive ieldsofstudy such as Business, Marine Science, Engineering and Nursing, as well as degrees in the more contemporary and specialized ields of Aviation, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Film, Animation, and Clinical MentalHealthCounseling.
Exclusive Opportunities
Along with a vast array of educational programs, Jacksonville University also offers many preprofessional and honors programs, as well as a vast number of extracurricular activities. There are more than100clubsandorganizationsoncampus,aswellasa thriving NCAA Division I athletics program and numerousvarsitysportsteams.Inaddition,studentsare also encouraged to participate in the many
undergraduate research and hands-on learning experiences that are available in and out of the classroom. For example, the Marine Science Research Institute and brand new Psychology Lab at JU offer unique research opportunities for students across diverse disciplines at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Along with its future-focused curriculum and career programs, Jacksonville University offers numerous formsof inancialassistancetostudents.Financialaidat the undergraduate and graduate levels is available throughanumberofgenerousinstitutionalscholarships; grantsawardedbasedonacademicability,talentand/or inancial need; and federal and state inancial aid programs.
Challenging and Nurturing Learning Environment
Encouraging strong academic and professional ties, JacksonvilleUniversityprovidesanenvironmentwhere eachstudentisvaluedandappreciated,whereindividual attention is provided, and positive relationships are formed. This is a university that strikes a bene icial balance between challening and nurturing, and that welcomesstudents,notjustacademically,butaspartof thelargerJUDolphinfamily Asaresult,JUstudentsare encouragedineverywaytopursuetheirinterestsand
At Jacksonville University, you'll explore your possibilities, chart a different course, and shape your future. “
excel in their chosen career ields. With a mission to prepare each student for life-long success in learning, achieving, leading and serving, the university accomplishes its goals in a collaborative and inclusive learning environment. The educational setting lends itself to personalized learning services that allow for plenty of encouragement and interraction among studentsandfaculty
Spearheading the STEM Domain
UnderthedirectionofDr.MuratTiryakioglu,Jacksonville University is spearheading an evolution in STEM education that incorporates applied creativity into traditionalSTEMdegrees.TheresultingSTEAMinitiative focuses on the applied aspects of engineering, designand-build opportunities, service learning, creative problem-solvingandcriticalthinking.
Theadditionofthe“A”intheSTEAMacronymstandsfor the“Arts”andisre lectiveofthegrowingimportanceof soft and creative skills in STEM ields. A well-rounded knowledge of the arts, including design and writing, helps STEM professionals leverage their technical and
Dr. Murat Tiryakioglu
Executive Vice President
creativeskillstosolveproblemsinmoreinnovative ways, and at JU, students are given plenty of opportunitiestodojustthat
Astheuniversity’sexecutivevicepresidentofSTEAM initiatives, Dr Tiryakioglu’s creativity-infused approachencouragesactive,experientiallearning.It also allows students to take full advantage of the hundredsofcorporateandcommunitypartnerships JU has cultivated across the state and the region as theyparticipateinanunprecedentedeight-semester designsequence.
AtJacksonvilleUniversity,engineeringstudentsare learningmorethanbasiccareerskills.Theyarebeing challengdtothinkcriticallyandcreatively,tobemore agile and adaptable, and to think in different ways. They are learning to see opportunities for improvement, new businesses, new products — to keep thinking critically every day and keep developingsolutions.Inturn,thiswillbroadentheir career horizons, unlock multiple career opportunities or give them an idea for their own businessesasengineerentrepreneurs.
Robust Career Management Programs
Over the years, Jacksonville University has actively soughttoexpanditsconnectionstoindustryandtoday offers an impressive career management program. On campus,theJUStudentSuccessCenterservesasaonestop shop for career-oriented opportunities, and colocates the university's educational high-impact practices.Theseincludeinternships,studyabroadtrips, internationalstudentservices,undergraduateresearch, and service-learning experiences. Providing students with one place where they can access resources and opportunities that position them for success beyond graduation has resulted in increased participation and the development of professional skills that further preparegraduatestoentertheir ieldofchoice.
Unlike most universities, the Student Success Center integrates multiple student-focused support services, which ensures that career-building opportunities are pursued hand-in-hand with course selection, cocurricular activities, resume building and the entire collegeexperience.
Pivoting Amidst Challenging Times
Thankstothebreadthofitscorporatepartnershipsand its decades of experience with online adult learning programs, Jacksonville University was uniquely positioned to weather the academic challenges of COVID-19.UsingthesamecreativityprizedbyitsSTEAM program,theuniversitywasabletopivotquickly,moving many programs online and adopting a remote-ready approach alongside the rest of the business world. By working closely with corporate partners, many experiential learning experiences were also moved online, not just in engineering, but in many other programsaswell.Theabilitytoquicklyadapt isnow a prized quality in today’s workforce as well as a quality instilledinJUstudentsthroughavarietyofexperiential learningopportunities.
Encompassing Vision
Asaninstituteofhigherlearning,JacksonvilleUniversity strives to produce graduates who are not only careerready,butwhoarereadytoexcelandacceleratequickly intheirchosencareer ields.Thatiswhy,ingrainedinits
curriculum and throughout all of its degree and certi ication programs, is a commitment to real-world experience. Whether it's offering a major engineering design experience every year or providing internship and networking opportunities with its numerous industrypartners,JacksonvilleUniversityisincreasingly bringingtherealworldintotheclassroomandviceversa insomeveryprogressiveandcutting-edgeways.
Fromitsstandardmajors,minorsandadvanceddegree programs to its Pathways of Distinction option which allows students to customize their education, the University is truly committed to assisting and encouraging students in the best ways for them. Its growing alumni base, strong industry contracts and devotedfacultyandstaffareallapartofthat,butthereal rewardsarethelifetimetiesthatthisapproachfosters. Preparingeachstudentforlife-longsuccessinlearning, achieving,leadingand servingisnot justamissionof theuniversity,itisawayoflife,everydayandinevery way
UNIVERSIT Y OF ARCHITECTURE, CIVIL ENGINEERING, AND GEODESY
The Legacy Bulgarian Institute of T echnical Education
Whiletheworldisadoptingatechnology-driven lifestyle, it is inevitably advancing to cuttingedge technology-based manufacturing, construction, end education. This is leading to a rise in demand for people well versed with such technologies. With STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, newer techniques and practices are being adopted and the opportunities for future generationsarealsobeingincreased.
Mainstream Technical education institutions like Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Geodesy have undergoneseveralchangestoincorporateSTEMeducation in the curriculum. The college has enhanced its offerings with technologization, modernization with electroni icationofeducation,especiallyincomputational and pictorial pedagogical methods and requirements. Alongside, it has also increased the participation of students in the research work of teachers, emphasizing practicaltrainingofthestudents.
Presently, Prof. Dr. Eng. Ivan Markov – Rector of the UACEG is at the helm of the college. He graduated with a specialtyinStructuralEngineeringin1982.Hespenthis
entirecareerattheUniversity,startingfrom2008asthe Headofthedepartment'StructuralMechanics.'Later,he severed as the Dean of the faculty of Structural Engineering until becoming the Rector of the UACEG. Prof. Markov is a well-known expert in the ield of structuralmechanics,dynamics,andstabilityofbuilding structures. Alongside, he also developed software systemslikeCESAN-FRAMEandCESAN-PLANE.
The Bequest of Knowledge
The University of Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Geodesy (UACEG) was founded in 1942 as Higher Technical School—marking the beginning of higher engineeringeducationinBulgaria.Theschoolwaslater transformedintoaStatePolytechnicwhichwasfurther divided into several institutes, one of them being the InstituteofCivilEngineering.Finally,bytheresolutionof theNationalAssemblyoftheRepublicofBulgariaonJuly 21st, 1995, the institution was transformed into the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Geodesy.
Today, UACEG has over 6 decades of experience and tradition, quali ied academic staff, and well-equipped laboratoriestoenhanceeducationforthestudents.Ithas paved a platform for the students to effectively and creatively acquire architectural and engineering knowledge.Thealumnioftheinstitutionhaveworkedon avarietyofremarkableprojectsandfacilities—designed andexecutedbyarchitects,civilengineers,andsurveyors oftheBulgarianinstitution.
A Comprehensive Educational Institute
UACEGisaneducationandresearch-orientedinstitution with ample architectural and civil engineering knowledge to offer. Students acquire practical skills whileexperiencingthearchitecturalbeautyofBulgaria, its traditions, and its culture. UACEG's mission is materialized in the form of its degree programs on various aspects of construction and architecture education. The college offers specialized courses on Architecture, Structural Engineering, WaterSupply and Sewerage,Geodesy,TransportationEngineering—based on the study of road and railway construction, and Hydraulic Engineering which is a study of hydraulic structures,irrigation,anddrainageengineering.
Construction is an eternal profession—creative, creatively responsible, and builds a complex material environment in which the entire life cycle of society and individuals takes place “
Prof.Markov
UACEG's curriculum is curated such that all its degree programs offer a master's level education. The institution also has unique bachelor's-only courses on UrbanPlanning,LandandRealEstateManagement,and PlanningandConstructionManagement.UACEGisalso constantly developing projects on signi icant and current issues including seismic engineering, urban planning in crisis conditions, etc. The institute admits studentsintothefollowingdegreeprograms:
• MA in Architecture
• MA in Landscape Engineering
• MEng Geodesy
• BEng in Land and Real Estate Management and Planning
• MA/BA in Environmental Engineering
• MEng in Hydraulic Engineering
• MEng in Water Supply and Sewerage
• MEng in Structural Engineering
• BEng in Construction Management
• MEng in Transportation Engineering
• MA/BA in Urban Plannin
Prof. Dr. Eng. Ivan Markov
Rector
Thearchitectureprogramsspanforadurationof11 semesters i.e. 5.5 years, which includes work and presentationofadiplomathesis.Fortheengineering programs, the duration is 10 semesters i.e. 5 years, and the bachelor curricula are scheduled for 8 semesters.
Practical Approach to Learning
AtUACEG,practicaltrainingisapriorityeducational activityandiscarriedoutthroughoutthespanofall courses. The institute constantly focuses on the provision of practical and ield knowledge. The studentsattheUACEGareexposedtotherealdesign and construction market through practices, internships,lectures,andreal-worldtasksassigned by the partners in the construction business. The institute encourages the participation of representatives from construction and design businessesfortheevaluationofdiplomaprojects.
Additionally, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, theinstituteprojectedthevaluesofpersistence,
responsibility, professionalism, and intelligence. It conducted lectures online, by developing a system for electronic communication in-house. Alongside, it also continuedtoconductpracticalclassesonanindividual basis with the students in compliance with the safety measures and social distancing. Over the years, more than 6300 architects and 27000 civil engineers have taken the advantage of UACEG's unique approach to education.
The Ideal Student
TheUACEGisuniquewhenitcomestoitsstudents.The institute is highly selective as it looks for highly responsible, hardworking, ethical, and ambitious dreamerswhocantametheleadersoftomorrow. Prof. Ivan mentions that specialists in the architecture and engineering professions need to possess diverse qualities.Astudentmustbeambitioustocreatefunction, aesthetics, and sustainability for their material environment. They should understand their responsibility towards society, their communities, and
individuals along with in luential contributions for the past, present, and future. Above all, a student must develop an ability to work hard with honesty and intransigenceinthefaceofdif iculties,professionaland lifeobstacles.
“When a profession is practiced with love – it is passion—when practiced without love it is stress,” adds Prof.Markov.
Providing with Exceptional Opportunities
UACEG is a state university so it offers scholarships granted by the state. The University Center for Career Development offers a variety of opportunities for companiesintheconstructionindustrytoconnectwith students.Theyarealsopresentedwithopportunitiesto takeonpaidinternshipsabroad.Additionally,graduate students can also choose to work with one of the over eightypartnercompaniesofUACEGforaperiodofeither halforoneyear.
Note for the Students :
“The UACEG is a scientific institution that combines traditional values with decades of experience. Timeless and incorporated with the technologies of modern times—electronification, communication, information, democracy, and globalization.”
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS PERMIAN BASIN
A Hub of Academic Excellence in Advanced Engineering Programs
TheUniversityofTexas PermianBasin(UTPB)has witnessedsignificantchanges inAmericanengineeringeducationin recentyears,primarilydrivenbythe informationageandothercontributing factors.Theevolvingeconomyand globalcompetitionhaveresultedina growingtrendofoutsourcinglabor, supplies,products,andservices.
AccordingtotheNationalResearch Council’sBoardonEngineering Education,engineeringinstitutions shouldadapttothischanging landscapebyembracingashared visionoftheoverallsystemandits goals,emphasizingtheimportanceof thinkinggloballyandactinglocally To achievethis,theyrecommend
incorporatingearlyexposureto engineeringpracticeanddesignintothe curriculaandofferingstudentsdiverse pathwaysthatprovidevariedknowledge andexperiencesthroughouttheirdegree program.
UTPBhasproactivelyupdatedand transformeditsengineeringprogramsin responsetotheseindustrydemandsand recommendations.Asthesecondmost affordableinstitutioninTexas,UTPB ensuresacademicexcellenceand providesampleresourcestoitsstudents, makingitanidealchoiceforanyaspiring engineerlookingtoattendtheright college.
FromExperimentalVisionto EducationalExcellence
UTPBhasarichhistorythatbeganasan experimentin1969whentheTexas Legislaturesoughttoestablishan“upperlevel”universityinOdessa,focusingon junior,senior,andgraduatestudents.
However,thisambitiousplanfaceda setbackwhenalawsuitchallengedthe validityoftheUniversity’sproperty deeds,leadingtoatemporaryhaltin construction.Thankfully,theTexas SupremeCourtruledinfavorofthe University,andinApril1972,the constructionofUTPB’snewcampus resumed.
Afteralittlemorethanayear,on September4,1973,UTPBopenedits doorsforclasses,welcoming1,112 students.Sincethepermanentfacilities stillneededtobecompleted,these pioneeringstudentsstudiedintemporary buildingsandtrailersuntilthecampus wasfullyready,whichtookalmost anotheryear
Inasignificantchange18yearslater,the TexasLegislaturepassedabillto transformUTPBintoafour-year
institution.Thismarkedthebeginning offreshmanclasses,affectionately knownasthe“PioneerFreshmen,” joiningthecampusinthefallof1991.
Sinceitshumblebeginnings,UTPB hasexperiencedsubstantialgrowth anddevelopment.Asaregionaland comprehensiveinstitution,itcatersto adiversecommunityofstudentsfrom theregion,thestate,andbeyond.The University’smissionrevolvesaround providingstudent-centeredteaching, learning,research,andpublicservice ofexceptionalquality.Bydoingso, UTPBaimstocultivateengaged citizens,positivelyimpactlives, advancetechnology,andservethe publicinterestsofWestTexas.
ShapingtheFutureofEngineering withAdaptiveIndustry Advancements
UTPBoffersarangeofBS-degree engineeringprogramsthathave evolvedovertheyearstomeetthe demandsofvariousindustries.
1.ChemicalEngineering:UTPB’s chemicalengineeringprogramequips studentswithfundamentalskillsto designenergy-efficient, environmentallyfriendly,and economicallyprofitableprocesses, aimingforasustainablefuture.
2.ElectricalEngineering:UTPB trainselectricalengineerstodesign systemsprioritizingsafety,reliability, andenergyefficiency Thisprepares graduatesforsuccessfulcareersacross diverseindustries.
3.MechanicalEngineering:UTPB’s MechanicalEngineeringprogram trainsstudentstobecomeprofessional engineerscapableofformulatingand solvingtoday’sandtomorrow’s challengesinthefield.
4.PetroleumEngineering:With theuniqueadvantageofbeing abovetheworld’slargestoil reserve,UTPB’sPetroleum Engineeringprogrampositions studentsattheforefrontofglobal energyproduction.Graduatesare well-preparedforrewardingand lucrativecareersinmultiplesectors.
Overtheyears,theMechanical EngineeringandPetroleum Engineeringprogramshaveseen significantdevelopment,enhancing thequalityandscopeofeducation provided.Notably,arecentaddition totheinstitute’sofferingsisthe introductionofanMSin
MechanicalEngineering,providing studentswithadvancedknowledgeand expertiseinthefield.
Ontheotherhand,theChemicaland ElectricalEngineeringprogramsare relativelynewerandarecurrentlyina developmentalstage.AsUTPBcontinues togrowandevolve,theseprogramswill likelyundergofurtherexpansionand improvement,offeringstudentsevenmore opportunitiestoexcelintheirchosenfields.
NurturingDiversity,Fostering Excellence
ThecampusofUTPBreflectsits commitmenttoinclusivityandfosteringa
supportivelearningenvironmentfor allstudents.AsaHispanicServing andMinority-ServingInstitution, UTPBtakesprideinitsdiverse community,with42%ofstudents beingfirst-generationlearners.The institute’sprimarygoalistoequip thisvariedstudentbodywiththe necessaryskillsandknowledgefor successfulcareers,bothlocallyand globallywhilenurturingalifelong passionforlearning.
UTPB’sidentityrevolvesaroundfive corevaluesthatdefinetheir aspirationsandaspirations:
1.Extramileservice:Startwithan attitudeofYes!Beflexibleand proactive.
2.Kindhearted:Benice,positive, friendly,andrespectful.Begenerous withyourgiftsandtalents.Investin thesuccessandwell-beingofothers.
3.Integrity:Doright.Beforthright, honest,honorable,andtrustworthy.
4.Collaboration:Beapartner. Embraceandconsiderdiverse perspectives.Pursuepositive collectiveimpact.
5.Becurious,adaptable,and responsive.Embracethewildcatter spirit!
Toensurethateverystudentfeels comfortableandincluded,UTPB maintainsastudent-to-teacherratio of22:1.Thissetupallowsfor personalizedattention,enabling studentstoengagecloselywith facultywhileenjoyingthebenefitsof alargerinstitution.Theinstitute’s facultyandstaffgenuinelyinvestin theirstudent’sacademicsuccessand overallgrowth,creatingastrong senseoffamilythatstudentsdeeply
value.Beyondacademics,UTPB createsanurturingenvironmentthat supportsstudents’journeytosuccess.
PreparingtheYoungestMindsfor CodingandAISuccess
Withtechnologycontinually advancing,newfieldslikecodingand artificialintelligencearerapidly emerging.STEMsubjects,including AI,IT,design,andengineering,offer studentswithdiverseinterestsample opportunitiesforcreativitythrough specializedprograms.Some educationalinstitutionshaveeven begunteachingcodingandAIcourses tochildrenasyoungaseight.At UTPB,engineering,andscience programsprioritizeteaching programminglanguagesandcodingto equipstudentsforfuturechallenges andtomeetthedemandsofthe industry
Tosupportthisfocusontechnological advancement,theuniversityrecently investedasignificantsumof$55 millioninconstructingastate-of-theartengineeringbuildingspanning 105,801squarefeet.Thismodern facilityhousesadvancedtechnologies, includingclassrooms,lecturehalls, studyrooms,labs,conferencerooms, andofficespaces,providingavaluable additiontotheuniversity’s infrastructure.
Inadditiontocutting-edgefacilities, theCollegeofEngineeringatUTPB offersvariousactivitiesandresources toenhancestudents’collegeexperience andpreparethemfortheirfuture careers.Studentscanjoinengineering studentorganizationsthatalignwith theirinterestsandconnectwiththe broadercommunity.Moreover,they canaccessindustry-standard technologies,suchas3Dprinting machines,theGrabCADprogram,
“We aren't bragging when we call UT Permian Basin the “academic heart of West Texas.” But we sure are proud of the work we get to do every day.”
SolidWorks,PetrelfromSchlumberger, PhDWin,andotheradvancedtools.
UTPBtakesprideinofferingawide rangeofoptions,includingmorethan 45studentorganizationsand14NCAA athleticteams,enrichingtheoverall universityexperienceforitsstudents.
UTPB’sCareerEventsOpening DoorsforStudents
AtUTPB,theinstitutioniskeenly awareoftherapidlychanging expectationsofemployers.Toensure thatstudentsarewell-preparedtomeet industrydemandsandfacefuture challenges,themanagementfocuseson equippingthemwithpracticalskillsand experiencesthroughitscareerservices offices.
UTPB’sdedicatedcareerservicesteam iscommittedtohelpingstudentssecure valuableinternshipsthatprovidereal-
world,hands-onexperienceintheir chosenfields.Recognizingthehigh impactofinternshipsonstudents’ competitivenessinthejobmarket, MeganBaeza,theDirectorof InternshipsandEmployerRelations, emphasizestheimportanceofthese opportunities.
ThankstoHandshake,UTPB’sonline jobboard,theuniversityhas establishedconnectionswithover 1,350employersnationwide,making itconvenientforstudentstofindjob openings.Asaresultoftheseefforts, numerousUTPBstudentshave participatedinsummerinternships, andmanyhavebeenplacedwith employersinthethrivingPermian Basinregion.
UTPB’sCareerServicesgoesabove andbeyondinfacilitatingconnections betweenstudentsandpotential employers,hostingvariousevents throughouttheyear Thisensures studentshaveampleopportunitiesto networkandgaininsightsinto potentialcareerpaths.
Theuniversity’sfocusonengineering educationisparticularlynoteworthy, asUTPB’scareerservicesteamhas beenhighlysuccessfulinhelping almostallengineeringgraduates secureemploymentbeforegraduation. Withawiderangeofengineering disciplinesavailable,itsstudentscan explorediversecareeropportunities nationallyandinternationally.
Furthermore,UTPB’sengineering buildingholdsastrategicadvantage, situatedatoptheworld’slargestoil reserve.Thisadvantageouslocation presentsabundantjobprospectsinthe oilandgasindustry,offeringstudents valuableopportunitiesfor employmentandgrowthrightwithin theirlocalcommunity
