Lawrence Technological University
A Vision for the College of Engineering

Engineering Education: The Knowledge Needed to Create What Never Was

In one sentence, the famous engineer Theodore Von Karman summed up the appeal of an engineering career:  “Scientists discover what is, engineers create what never was.”  Engineers build upon the important foundational information that scientists discover.  The excitement and pride in creating something new is at the heart of why engineering is such a rewarding profession.  Lawrence Technological University’s engineering education gives students the theoretical tools and the opportunities to creatively use them as they learn how to implement their ideas in practice.  As a result, Lawrence Tech graduates have a distinct advantage of hands on experiences as they put their education to use in their careers.

The United States is in ever increasing competition with foreign countries.  Our citizens have growing concerns about jobs and their future standard of living.  Michigan has been particularly hard hit by extensive losses of manufacturing jobs. People have begun to wonder if we are headed toward a service economy and what that will mean for them. One bright light in this picture is the continued inventive success of America’s scientist and engineers. The United States is still the world leader in advancing new technology. American universities must continue developing engineering education programs and teaching methods.  They must know the current needs of employers and anticipate what will be required in the future.  For graduates who start their own companies, their education must prepare them with the needed technology and business skills needed to be successful.

College Vision

The Engineering College vision is to provide outstanding engineering education incorporating theory and practice in a premiere private university environment.

At the present time, the College of Engineering is enjoying significant growth in its graduate programs.  Special attention is now being given to increasing undergraduate enrollment.  Many Lawrence Tech Bachelor of Science graduates continue on in our Masters degree programs.  For some students however, the Bachelors degree is the only degree they earn.  In order to increase undergraduate enrollment, we have increased our marketing of current degree programs so as to reach a broader audience of prospective students outside of Michigan.  We will also offer new programs that prepare prospective students for interesting, well-paid, secure jobs that allow them more freedom to choose where they wish to live.  We must incorporate the very best new insights into how to teach and maximize learning.  We will make use of new technology such as tablet computers and unique teaching methods that engage students and increase interactive participation in the classroom learning environment..

We must also pay more attention to the human side of teaching.  Our professors combine in-depth subject knowledge with the ability to connect with their students and gain strong respect and admiration.  They do this without relaxing demands on their students. They set high goals and convey to their students that they take great satisfaction in helping them learn.