New Engineering Degree Programs at Slippery Rock University to Meet Growing Job Demand
Slippery Rock University (SRU) is taking significant steps to meet the increasing demand for trained engineering professionals, crucial in today’s job market. Effective from fall 2025, the institution will introduce two new Bachelor of Science degree programs: one in Electrical and Computer Engineering and another in Construction Management. This addition is aimed at enhancing educational pathways for students aspiring to enter high-paying engineering fields.
According to recent statistics, Pennsylvania employed over 160,000 engineers in the previous year alone, with approximately 10,100 job openings. The inclusion of these new programs reflects SRU's proactive strategy to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in a competitive workforce. Both programs will join SRU's existing suite of four ABET-accredited engineering degrees, set firmly on developing comprehensive, practically-oriented learning environments for students.
Michael Zieg, the provost at SRU, emphasizes the importance of these offerings. He states, "These programs are designed to train students to be problem-solvers with skills in mathematics, creative design, leadership, and communication, both verbal and written." As part of SRU's growth strategy, the introduction of new engineering programs aligns with the institution’s commitment to addressing the evolving educational needs and professional aspirations of local communities.
The Electrical and Computer Engineering program focuses on vital areas, such as digital electronics, communication systems, power systems, computer hardware and software, and microelectronics. Meanwhile, the Construction Management program is tailored to prepare graduates to lead projects across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial construction. This versatile skill set is anticipated to make graduates remarkably attractive to employers seeking well-rounded candidates.
Additionally, salaries for engineers in Pennsylvania often exceed $100,000 per year, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a growth rate of 4% in engineering roles from 2020 to 2030—a trend that surpasses the overall job growth rate for other occupations in the state.
In a unique educational approach, SRU is working towards creating innovative spaces known as "classatory," where classrooms and laboratories merge to enhance hands-on learning experiences. This setup allows students to engage in practical application directly tied to theoretical knowledge, fostering a more engaging learning atmosphere. Currently, SRU operates six advanced laboratories equipped with modular technology, allowing faculty to adapt learning environments based on educational objectives.
The financial dimension of studying engineering at SRU makes it an appealing option. The total cost for a four-year engineering degree at SRU is less than half of that at comparable institutions in the nearby area, averaging $48,122. Moreover, around 85% of students at SRU receive some form of financial aid, which alleviates the financial burden of higher education.
Encompassing six unique programs—Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Construction Management (launching in 2025), and Electrical and Computer Engineering (launching in 2025)—SRU continues to establish itself as a leading institution in engineering education. To date, 239 students are enrolled in engineering disciplines at SRU, with over 120 alumni who have graduated since the implementation of the first engineering program in 2016.
The two new programs will also pursue ABET accreditation to ensure that they meet rigorous standards of educational quality and relevance in engineering. Accredited programs assure employers that graduates possess the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to their fields, especially in areas of innovation and public safety.
Positioned just 50 miles north of Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock University is recognized as a nationally ranked regional public university. The introduction of these state-approved programs enhances SRU’s offerings and reinforces its commitment to facilitate a skilled labor force in Pennsylvania. Students seeking further information about the engineering programs are encouraged to explore SRU’s official website to commence their application journey and take a step towards their future in engineering education.
According to recent statistics, Pennsylvania employed over 160,000 engineers in the previous year alone, with approximately 10,100 job openings. The inclusion of these new programs reflects SRU's proactive strategy to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in a competitive workforce. Both programs will join SRU's existing suite of four ABET-accredited engineering degrees, set firmly on developing comprehensive, practically-oriented learning environments for students.
Michael Zieg, the provost at SRU, emphasizes the importance of these offerings. He states, "These programs are designed to train students to be problem-solvers with skills in mathematics, creative design, leadership, and communication, both verbal and written." As part of SRU's growth strategy, the introduction of new engineering programs aligns with the institution’s commitment to addressing the evolving educational needs and professional aspirations of local communities.
The Electrical and Computer Engineering program focuses on vital areas, such as digital electronics, communication systems, power systems, computer hardware and software, and microelectronics. Meanwhile, the Construction Management program is tailored to prepare graduates to lead projects across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and industrial construction. This versatile skill set is anticipated to make graduates remarkably attractive to employers seeking well-rounded candidates.
Additionally, salaries for engineers in Pennsylvania often exceed $100,000 per year, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a growth rate of 4% in engineering roles from 2020 to 2030—a trend that surpasses the overall job growth rate for other occupations in the state.
In a unique educational approach, SRU is working towards creating innovative spaces known as "classatory," where classrooms and laboratories merge to enhance hands-on learning experiences. This setup allows students to engage in practical application directly tied to theoretical knowledge, fostering a more engaging learning atmosphere. Currently, SRU operates six advanced laboratories equipped with modular technology, allowing faculty to adapt learning environments based on educational objectives.
The financial dimension of studying engineering at SRU makes it an appealing option. The total cost for a four-year engineering degree at SRU is less than half of that at comparable institutions in the nearby area, averaging $48,122. Moreover, around 85% of students at SRU receive some form of financial aid, which alleviates the financial burden of higher education.
Encompassing six unique programs—Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Construction Management (launching in 2025), and Electrical and Computer Engineering (launching in 2025)—SRU continues to establish itself as a leading institution in engineering education. To date, 239 students are enrolled in engineering disciplines at SRU, with over 120 alumni who have graduated since the implementation of the first engineering program in 2016.
The two new programs will also pursue ABET accreditation to ensure that they meet rigorous standards of educational quality and relevance in engineering. Accredited programs assure employers that graduates possess the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute effectively to their fields, especially in areas of innovation and public safety.
Positioned just 50 miles north of Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock University is recognized as a nationally ranked regional public university. The introduction of these state-approved programs enhances SRU’s offerings and reinforces its commitment to facilitate a skilled labor force in Pennsylvania. Students seeking further information about the engineering programs are encouraged to explore SRU’s official website to commence their application journey and take a step towards their future in engineering education.
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