Trinity University

Introduction

Early in the 1960s, the Trinity Board of Trustees authorized a program of engineering science for the University. Because careers in applied research, innovative design, and engineering development are generally the most intellectually challenging, technically difficult and rewarding, and since these careers require proficiency in engineering science, this type of program appeared ideal for Trinity. The first engineering students entered Trinity in 1961.

Currently, the Engineering Science Department has nine full-time faculty who hold PhDs in their areas of specialty. From its inception, the Engineering Science Department has developed a close, family-like relationship with its students and alumni. Personal attention is given to each student in and out of the classroom and laboratory. The environment is ideal for engineering education and also conducive to inquiring, reflection, and scholarship by the faculty.

 Mission

The mission of the Engineering Science Department at Trinity University is to provide talented students with a broad-based undergraduate engineering education by offering a design-oriented, multidisciplinary engineering science curriculum in the context of the University's tradition of the liberal arts and sciences.

Program Educational Objectives

Our graduates are expected to achieve the following objectives within a few years after graduation:

1. Sucessful practice of engineering design and analysis in their field.
2. Application of a broad background in liberal arts and sciences when solving engineering problems with humanistic dimensions in their professional practice.
3. Advancement in their engineering careers with increased responsibility and leadership roles.
4. Effective oral and written communication with diverse groups of people.
5.  The pursuit of continuing or advanced education relevant to professional interests.

Student Outcomes

Engineering students are expected to acquire the following knowledge and skills by the time of graduation: 

A.     An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and 
      engineering
B.     An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze 
      and interpret data
C.     An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet 
      desired needs within realistic constraints such as
      economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and 
      safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
D.    An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams
E.     An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
F.      An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
G.     An ability to communicate effectively
H.     The broad education necessary to understand the impact of 
      engineering solutions in a global and societal context
I.        Recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long 
      learning
J.      Knowledge of contemporary issues
K.     An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering
      tools necessary for engineering practice

 Curriculum

The curriculum emphasizes an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of the physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering science that form the foundation for technical work in all fields of engineering. Some specialization is available through elective courses in Chemical, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, taken during the junior and senior years. The program provides significant hands-on experience in engineering laboratories and participation in engineering design projects throughout the eight-semester engineering design course sequence. The emphasis on fundamentals is intended to prepare students for dealing with the rapid pace of technological change and the interdisciplinary demands of today's, and tomorrow's, engineering practice. The laboratory and design portions of the program provide the student with a balanced perspective of the realities and limitations required for practical problem solving.

The professional practice of engineering requires skill and resourcefulness in applying science and technology to the solution of problems in our complex technological society. The successful engineer must possess a thorough understanding of social and economic forces and have an appreciation of cultural and humanistic traditions. The Trinity Engineering Science Program encourages the development of this kind of graduate by providing a broad technical background and a significant liberal education in the humanities and social sciences.

Assessment

The Engineering Science Department has a comprehensive assessment plan in place to ensure continuous improvement of its Student Outcomes and Program Educational Objectives. Through assessment of our courses and survey of our constituents (alumni, employers and board of advisors), we continuously strive to improve the quality of our program.