College of Aeronautics and Engineering’s (CAE) bachelor's degree program in Mechatronics Engineering has been accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, and the bachelor's degree program in Mechatronics Engineering Technology has been accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.
A mere seven years after introduced its theoretical engineering programs, building upon its longstanding success in applied engineering technology disciplines, the College has hit another milestone. Both the Mechatronics Engineering and its precursor, the Aerospace Engineering programs, achieved ABET accreditation on their first attempts. This underscores the College's swift ascent in the engineering domain and its steadfast dedication to upholding academic excellence.
The ABET accreditation, globally recognized as the gold standard for engineering education, signifies that a program adheres to the highest standards in preparing its graduates for roles in pivotal STEM fields. For Kent State, this translates into an assurance that their graduates are primed to lead in innovation, harness emerging technologies, and aptly anticipate the welfare and safety needs of the public.
Adding to the accolade, CAE's Mechatronics Engineering Technology program stands as the world's first and only to achieve accreditation under the new Mechatronics Engineering Technology criteria set by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC). Amid a global context, the College further distinguishes itself by being one of only four institutions in the U.S. to have its Mechatronics Engineering program ABET-accredited, and notably, the sole representative in the region.
Mechatronics engineering is an interdisciplinary blend that converges mechanical engineering, electronics and electrical engineering, computer science, and control systems engineering. It's the field behind the intelligent systems and products we encounter daily, from household appliances like washing machines to specialized machinery such as industrial robots. Mechatronics engineers blend components like sensors and actuators with computerized control systems, resulting in devices adept at processing and reacting to their surroundings.
Such a multi-disciplinary approach means that mechatronics engineers draw from a wide knowledge base: mechanical design, electronic circuitry, control systems' precision, and computer programming acumen. Their imprint spans various industries, underscoring the importance of mechatronics in today's technologically driven landscape.
“We’re thrilled to receive ABET accreditation for both programs concurrently,” says Maureen McFarland, Ph.D. Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. “The College of Aeronautics and Engineering stands unparalleled globally in seamlessly merging engineering and engineering technology programs in a strategically cohesive manner. This achievement speaks volumes about the dedication and tireless efforts of our faculty and staff. It’s exciting to know that securing ABET accreditation for both disciplines reinforces our innovative and effective approach to engineering education, which broadens access for students who might have previously found engineering careers out of reach.”
For students, this accreditation ensures their education aligns with a global standard, enhancing their employability and solidifying their credentials when seeking licensure or certification. Moreover, the ABET accreditation boosts the College’s international standing, fostering easier credit transfers and paving the way for global opportunities for its students.
In retrospect, CAE’s journey from its inception to its current recognition is one of ambition, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. This recent accreditation serves not only as a testament to past achievements but as a beacon guiding the institution's future endeavors in engineering education.