New bachelor’s degree focuses on Engineering Technology

UAH campus with UAH letters painted on grass.
Michael Mercier | UAH

Coming in the spring semester, The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) will offer Engineering Technology, a new concentration that is part of the Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies.

“The expansion of the high-tech economy in North Alabama has prompted an increase in demand for a technically prepared workforce,” says Karen Clanton, dean of the College of Professional Studies.

Whether it is in the automotive, construction, advanced manufacturing, aerospace or defense industry, Dr. Clanton says local jobs require employees with a strong understanding of and practical competencies in the field of technology.

“UAH recognizes a need for skilled professionals that can support our engineering workforce,” Dr. Clanton says. “The differences between engineering and engineering technology are not always obvious.”

While the topics of the core courses in both of the programs seem similar, engineering technology emphasizes the application of engineering techniques, while engineering focuses on theory and the development of concepts. Graduates of engineering technology and engineering programs complement each other in skills and interests.

“Nationally, approximately 60 percent of freshmen engineering students eventually drop out or change majors,” says Dr. Clanton. “Over 40 percent don’t even make it through year one.”

The Engineering Technology concentration provides a new path for individuals who may have started an engineering-related associate or bachelor program, but for various reasons did not complete it.

The degree is designed to provide participants with flexibility and individualized support. Courses are available online and in blended formats. Students can apply transferred credits for up to 75 percent of the degree, including ACE recommended credit for military training, and up to 32 hours of technical credits. There is also the option to receive course equivalencies for previously completed coursework in engineering.

Technologists work with technicians, engineers and scientists to form technological teams that produce an ever-increasing rate of technological advancement. Job responsibilities for a professional engineering technologist require technical and practical knowledge. Technologists can apply their abilities in using technical equipment, selling technical products, serving as manufacturers' technical representatives or supervising varied construction projects and manufacturing processes.

For more details, join the information session on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 5:30 p.m. in Wilson Hall Room 152. Individuals may also set up a personalized appointment by contacting Kellee.Crawford@uah.edu, 256.824.6673, or visiting UAHComplete.uah.edu.

 

Contact

Kellee Crawford
256.824.6673
kellee.crawford@uah.edu

Karen Clanton
256.824.6013
karen.clanton@uah.edu