Preparing engineers to solve real-world problems.

At Houghton, we believe you learn best by actually doing engineering, not just talking about it. To this end, we offer a curriculum that, in addition to solid coursework, emphasizes practical experience. Our seven-semester engineering design sequence provides you with the opportunity to take part in academic and industry-driven projects for clients, preparing you for a career after Houghton.  To do this you will use all of the skills, tools and knowledge you have accumulated throughout your educational career. Our goal is to inspire you to work at your highest level, and to accept nothing less than your very best. We do this in a warm, supportive, Christian environment.

Program Educational Outcomes

1. Graduates will be productive and valuable professionals, utilizing their engineering and cs expertise to conceive, develop, implement and integrate systems, components and processes for the wellbeing of the communities they serve.
2. Graduates will be life-long learners, adapting to new technologies, tools and methodologies to respond to a changing world.
3. Graduates will be scholar-servants who work ethically, collaboratively and professionally, serving humanity in a manner that is consistent with a Christian worldview.

Student Educational Outcomes

To develop a working knowledge of science and engineering and to provide the practical skills of a working engineer.

Outcome 1 – An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics

Outcome 2 – An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors

Outcome 3 – An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.

Character development that will lead to a successful life as an engineer.

Outcome 4 – An ability to make the correct ethical decisions about research questions and conduct, professional activities, and the development of personal integrity.

Outcome 5 – An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, meet objectives

Outcome 6 – The ability to integrate an understanding of physics with Christian principles, and to articulate a Christian perspective in the professional scientific arena.

Outcome 7 – An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Continuous Improvement

Each year we evaluate our success in reaching these goals.  A major component of the curriculum is the design sequence -- every student spends three years working with faculty advisors or industry mentors on engineering design or research projects, gives a presentation at an engineering meeting, and writes an undergraduate thesis about their work. As part of this process, students keep a portfolio to show the quality their work, level of preparedness, and specific skills to future employers. Careful evaluation of student portfolios allows us to appraise the cumulative effect our major has on student preparedness, and guides modifications when needed.