QU Launches Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Degrees
QUINCY, Ill. – Quincy University has announced the launch of Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering major degree programs, which will prepare students to become engineers in such fields as automation, autonomous systems, computer assisted design, electronics testing and manufacturing, and artificial intelligence. Both engineering programs will begin at QU in Fall 2024.
“As student interests evolve and as employer needs change, especially in our region, Quincy University will continue to grow and lead,” said Brian McGee, PhD, QU president. “Our Success by Design program, with its emphasis on individual student achievement, is a perfect match for student success in engineering at a small and innovative university. I look forward to welcoming our first engineering students to campus.”
Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering are two of the traditional engineering disciplines and, nationwide, often are the two engineering majors most popular with students. At Quincy University, the Electrical Engineering program will prepare students to design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical and electronic equipment. The Mechanical Engineering program will prepare students to design, develop, build, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices, including tools, engines, and machines.
“The economic future of the Tri-State region will require a continuing supply of exceptional engineers and computer scientists to meet the increasingly complex needs of regional manufacturers and other important employers,” said Joe Tracy, CEO of Dot Family Holdings and a member of the Quincy University Board of Trustees. “We need every school, college, and university to do its part to solve this workforce challenge.”
“Quincy University already has thriving computer science and cybersecurity programs, and, today, we have learned that QU is adding new academic programs in engineering,” said Tracy. “I am pleased by this important commitment by QU to the region. All employers in the region should support any educational institution that is working proactively to meet workforce needs. For the students in these programs – Dot Foods looks forward to hiring many of you and putting your talents to work to our country’s food supply chain. My congratulations to Quincy University on this important commitment.”
High school guidance counselors, along with many regional high school sophomores and juniors, will soon receive messages about QU’s new engineering programs.
“According to what we learned from regional industries, mechanical and electrical engineers are needed the most in this region,” said Teresa Reed, PhD, QU vice president for academic affairs. “Our engineering graduates will know how to apply the latest techniques in mechatronics and robotics, to meet increasing expectations for automation. I am excited about the benefit of the engineering programs for students, the university, and the Quincy area.”
The engineering programs focus on innovation and improvement in student outcomes required by ABET, the specialized accreditor for many programs in engineering, computing, and the sciences. Both degrees in the engineering program will require courses in physics, mathematics, and other subjects already taught at QU, along with newly developed engineering courses.
QU will work to develop pre-engineering relationships with regional high schools and to create summer camp opportunities for engineering students. Establishing the engineering degree programs will also give QU the ability to offer continuing education units for engineers in the region.
Development of the new engineering programs at Quincy University is possible in part thanks to philanthropic support, which will allow QU to help meet automation and other vital engineering needs of regional industries.
Effective immediately, students interested in the new engineering majors are invited to complete some of the prerequisite courses by enrolling at QU. For more information, contact the Office of Admissions at admissions@708212.com.
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit xwfj.708212.com or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or communityrelations@708212.com. Quincy University. Success by Design.
