Eastern Michigan University engineering programs jump more than 40 spots in latest U.S. News and World Report rankings; now among top 100 in the U.S.

Newly remodeled Sill Hall building exterior
(EMU file photo)

YPSILANTI – Since the launch of four new engineering programs and a $40 million investment in the expansion of Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, the College landed the 87th spot out of 230 universities among undergraduate engineering programs nationwide by U.S. News and World Report. This marks a rise from last year’s ranking of 129, which was the first time the digital media company ranked the program.

“We have made tremendous strides in the short time since our engineering programs were introduced,” said Mohamad Qatu, dean of the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. “I credit our success to smaller class sizes, excellent faculty with real-world experience, partnerships with major employers that facilitate internships, outstanding fundraising efforts, state-of-the-art laboratories, strong communication efforts, and a focus on working in teams to enhance students' problem-solving and project development skills.” 

EMU first launched a mechanical engineering program in 2017, followed by an electrical and computer engineering program. Both programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) which accredits programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. The college also introduced a civil engineering program in 2020, emphasizing concepts in structural engineering, transportation, water resources, environmental engineering, and construction engineering. 

Qin Hu, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at EMU, said the program is an excellent return on investment for students. “Students can work alongside industry professionals and participate in professional development organizations like the Society of Women Engineers and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers,” said Hu. “Students who graduate from electrical and computer engineering programs either work in industry or are admitted to prestigious graduate schools.”

David DeLisle, an electrical and computer engineering bachelor of science honors graduate, said his program aligned with his academic goals. “Since I desired to attend graduate school, I jumped at the invitation to join the EMU McNair Scholars Program, which inspired me to pursue electrical and computer engineering research and make my mark at EMU,” said DeLisle.

DeLisle said working with Professor Qin Hu on undergraduate research gave him a leading edge with many prestigious research institutions. “This background granted me the opportunity to join The Ohio State University's Electrical and Computer Engineering Ph.D. program, where my undergraduate experience has propelled me to the forefront of automotive research at the OSU Center for Automotive Research,” said DeLisle. “I look to create innovative solutions to make electric vehicles and batteries safer,” he added.

Qatu believes the talent displayed by his team will contribute to more students graduating from the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology and entering the global economy. 

“EMU is preparing me by providing me with the necessary ‘toolkit,’ as Professor Ali Eydgahi would put it, to succeed in either graduate school or as an engineer, said Austin La Mothe, an EMU senior studying electrical and computer engineering.

In addition to distinctive characteristics, the college provides learning environments and programs such as autonomous vehicles research, cybersecurity, aviation, 3D printing, robotics, drone technology, construction management, and interior design, which give students technical knowledge and experience valuable to companies in southeast Michigan and throughout the globe.

The undergraduate engineering program rankings were based solely on peer assessment surveys. To appear on an undergraduate engineering survey, a school must have an undergraduate engineering program accredited by ABET. These programs are split into two groups: schools whose highest engineering degree is a doctorate and schools whose highest engineering degree is a bachelor's or master's degree.

  

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 15,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.

September 28, 2022

Written by:
Melissa Thrasher

Media Contact:
Melissa Thrasher
mthrashe@emich.edu
734-487-4401