Concordia University Wisconsin will add chemical and industrial engineering degrees to its long list of STEM offerings.
Beginning in the fall of 2024, students can enroll in the programs to earn a bachelor’s degree in chemical or industrial engineering.
CUW’s engineering programs are distinct in the marketplace because they are anchored in the liberal arts and designed to prepare engineers through a Lutheran-Christian worldview. As students hone their science, math, and technology skills for success in their vocation, they will also deepen their people and critical-thinking abilities to solve problems and contribute to a better world.
Why chemical and industrial engineering?
The foundation for chemical and industrial engineering programs already exists at CUW due to the university’s strength in chemistry, math, physics, and pharmacy courses. University officials considered existing faculty expertise and balanced that with market demand to determine initial program offerings.
“Engineering has been on our radar for several years,” said Interim Provost Leah Dvorak, Ph.D. “In addition to our exceptional faculty in the STEM areas and the abundance of updated labs and available workspace on Concordia’s Mequon campus, a significant portion of the engineering curriculum is existing coursework, so our entry into this high-growth field is already rooted in expertise and experience.”
The creation of these programs responds to a dire need for more engineers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 2,000 openings for chemical engineers annually. Wisconsin has the third-highest concentration of industrial engineer jobs in the U.S., with an especially high need in counties within driving distance of CUW’s Mequon campus.
“The jobs of the future are in STEM, particularly engineering,” said Sarah Holtan, Ph.D., Special Advisor to the President and architect of the engineering programs. “We see engineering as an investment not only in our university but also in the broader community. Our graduates will make a real impact on the state and nearby counties.”
Pre-engineering
Applications are now being accepted for a pre-engineering track. Because the programs are rooted in the liberal arts, students can already be working towards their degree in engineering before it is officially launched without added time or expense. Current and transfer students are strongly encouraged to apply. Interested students should contact the Office of Admissions to learn how to get on the right track.
Want in?
You don’t need to wait until 2024. Applications are now being accepted for a pre-engineering track. Because the programs are rooted in the liberal arts, students can already be working towards a degree in engineering before it is officially launched without added time or expense. Current and transfer students are strongly encouraged to apply as well.