(photo: SAU students in an engineering classroom. Courtesy Spring Arbor University)
Spring Arbor University today announced the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Engineering program, set to begin in the fall of 2019. The program will include concentrations in electrical and biomedical (bio-electrical) engineering and will be offered on SAU’s main campus. The degree is designed to be completed in four years. Along with the new engineering major comes the installation of a new department of engineering at SAU, of which Dr. Ronald DeLap will serve as chair. DeLap has an extensive background as a practicing engineer and as leader of highly successful university-level engineering programs.
SAU’s engineering program will be distinguished by a strong, hands-on component that will move students quickly from theory to designing and creating; high levels of engagement and mentoring between faculty and students; a strong foundation in the liberal arts; classroom integration of faith and learning; and International Cross Cultural Studies requirements and funding.
“Engineers have the privilege and responsibility of developing and keeping God’s creation,” says DeLap. “They have a unique, God-given calling to serve in ways that address the brokenness of a fallen world. We have designed our program from the ground up, so that SAU students will acquire the technical skills needed to be outstanding engineers, while developing a mindset focused on service to God and honoring his creation.”
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering will be technically strong and rich in the liberal arts, giving students the added benefits of higher levels of creativity, communication skills, cultural literacy and the ability to understand engineering needs from perspectives of service and empathy.
“We’re excited to unveil this innovative approach to engineering,” says Dr. Carol Green, Vice President for Academic Affairs at SAU. “The addition of the engineering major enriches what SAU has to offer to students and will help our community and state to understand our commitment to providing innovative programs while still holding true to our expertise in the liberal arts and our commitment to Christian education.”
Upon graduation, engineering students at SAU will be prepared to enter the workforce with the skills, knowledge and creativity they’ll need to succeed in their high-demand profession. During their courses, they will learn to design, build, maintain and improve devices that meet industry needs and positively impact society and the broader creation.
The SAU engineering program is constructed around a curriculum that will qualify for application for accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). SAU intends to apply for ABET accreditation for the Bachelor of Science in Engineering program at the first available opportunity, once the first class of SAU engineering students graduates in 2023.