Slippery Rock University Expands Engineering Programs for Future

Slippery Rock University Introduces New Engineering Programs

Bachelor's degrees in electrical and computer engineering and construction management designed to prepare graduates for a growth economy

Engineering jobs are not only high paying but also in high demand. With over 160,000 engineers employed in the region, there are approximately 10,100 job openings available. Responding to this growing need, Slippery Rock University is enriching its educational offerings by adding two new degree programs to its existing suite of engineering programs accredited by the globally recognized Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

New Degree Offerings Starting Fall 2025

Beginning in fall 2025, students at SRU will have the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical and computer engineering as well as a Bachelor of Science in construction management. This is an exciting opportunity for prospective students looking to carve a niche in these essential fields.

Comprehensive Curriculum for Aspiring Engineers

The electrical and computer engineering program aims to equip students with practical skills in areas such as digital electronics, communication systems, power systems, computer hardware, software, and microelectronics. Likewise, the construction management program will prepare students to lead various projects encompassing residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure construction.

Michael Zieg, SRU provost, emphasized, "These programs are tailored to foster problem-solving skills among students. They will receive training in mathematics, creative design, leadership, and both verbal and written communication. Adding new programs aligns with SRU's growth strategy and supports the evolving educational needs of our community."

Job Prospects in Engineering

According to recent studies, engineers in the area typically earn more than $100,000 annually. Employment opportunities for engineers in the region are projected to grow by 4% over the coming years, a rate that outpaces many other occupations.

Innovative Learning Environments

SRU is pioneering a trend in higher education by merging classrooms and laboratories into integrated learning spaces referred to as "class-atories." This innovative approach not only makes education more affordable but also enhances hands-on learning experiences, enabling students to engage in class lectures and group discussions within the same environment.

Currently, SRU operates six state-of-the-art labs that feature modular equipment easily reconfigured to support experiments, demonstrations, testing, and various applied learning opportunities.

The SRU Advantage

The focus on applied education, coupled with lower tuition rates and personalized mentorship from SRU professors, fosters a stronger workforce in the region. Graduates are stepping into the job market with respected undergraduate degrees at a significantly lower initial cost compared to larger research institutions, which often prioritize theoretical knowledge and preparation for graduate studies.

Expanding the Engineering Programs

At present, 239 students are pursuing degrees in engineering at SRU. Since initiating its first engineering program in 2016, the university has produced more than 120 alumni holding engineering degrees. The student body is expected to grow further with the introduction of the new programs, enhancing the overall impact of SRU's engineering offerings.

The current engineering programs available at SRU include Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, along with the newly added Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Construction Management.

Furthermore, the four-year cost of tuition and fees for engineering studies at SRU is markedly lower—less than half the average tuition at 15 universities within a two-hour drive. Notably, about 85% of SRU students benefit from various scholarships and financial aid options.

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

All four existing engineering programs at SRU adhere to the stringent standards set by ABET, ensuring excellence in education. This accreditation is anticipated to extend to the two new programs once the first graduates complete their courses. Attending an ABET-accredited program guarantees that students are ready to enter essential technical fields driven by innovation and technological advancements.

Overview of Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University stands as a nationally ranked public university located approximately 50 miles north of Pittsburgh. The addition of the two new state-approved programs in electrical and computer engineering and construction management complements the array of ABET-accredited offerings within its College of Engineering and Science, providing students with diverse pathways to enter the workforce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What new engineering programs are being introduced at SRU?

Slippery Rock University is adding Bachelor of Science degrees in electrical and computer engineering and construction management starting in fall 2025.

What skills will the new programs focus on?

The programs aim to develop problem-solving, leadership, communication, and technical skills necessary for the engineering field.

What is the job outlook for engineering graduates in the region?

Engineering jobs are expected to grow by 4% in the area, with average salaries exceeding $100,000 per year.

How does SRU's tuition compare to other institutions?

The tuition for engineering programs at SRU is significantly less than the average cost at similar institutions within a two-hour radius.

What does ABET accreditation mean for SRU's programs?

ABET accreditation signifies that the programs meet high standards of quality, ensuring graduates are prepared to excel in technical fields.

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