After extensive evaluations from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, two of
Northern Michigan University's programs have been accredited.
The electronic engineering technology and mechanical engineering technology bachelor's degree programs were accredited by the board, which has set the standards for higher education in applied science, engineering and technology for almost 75 years.
Mike Rudisill is the head of the engineering technology department, and says the accreditation has benefits to current students, but also to the university in attracting potential students.
"ABET accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing students with a quality education and ensures that our programs remain current," says Rudisill. "It also provides an added value to our alumni, who can assure potential employers that they are graduates from one of the premier engineering technology programs in the country."
The process of accreditation is voluntary, and consists of regular evaluations made by teams of professionals working in the fields the board accredits.
Evaluations examine curricula, faculty, facilities, and institutional support, among other considerations. Programs seeking accreditation are expected to continuously improve their educational quality over the course of their assessments.
Rudisill says accreditation helps students and parents choose quality college programs, as well as allowing employers and graduate schools to have confidence that graduates of the NMU engineering programs are well-prepared and that their education met rigorous quality standards.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Mike Rudisill, Northern Michigan University
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