Is Liberty University’s Civil Engineering Program ABET Accredited? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
So, you’re looking at Liberty University’s Civil Engineering program, huh? Good for you! You’re probably thinking, “This sounds like a solid program, but is it ABET accredited? Will I be able to get that sweet, sweet engineering job?”
Let’s dive into this topic with the same enthusiasm as a civil engineer tackling a concrete pour on a sweltering summer day.
The Short Answer: Not Yet, But It’s Coming
Liberty University’s Civil Engineering program is brand spanking new, having just launched in the 2020-2021 academic year. Think of it as a freshly hatched chick, still learning to walk and peck at the ground. The first batch of graduates are expected in May 2023, and Liberty is planning to apply for ABET accreditation during the 2023-2024 accreditation cycle.
So, hold your horses, aspiring engineers! The Civil Engineering program is still young, and it’s working hard to earn that coveted ABET accreditation. Just like a newborn learning to crawl, it’s going through its paces to ensure it meets those rigorous standards.
Why Does ABET Accreditation Matter?
ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, is the gold standard for engineering programs worldwide. Think of it as the Michelin Guide for engineering education. When a program earns ABET accreditation, it’s basically saying, “Hey, we’re legit! We’ve been reviewed by experts, and we meet the highest standards in the field.”
So, what does this mean for you, the aspiring civil engineer?
- Increased Job Opportunities: ABET accreditation is a big deal for employers. Many companies, especially those in the public sector, prefer to hire graduates from ABET-accredited programs. This is because they know that these graduates have been trained to a high standard and are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
- Easier Licensing: In some states, ABET accreditation is a requirement for taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, the first step towards becoming a licensed professional engineer. While not all states require ABET accreditation for the FE exam, it can still make the process smoother.
- Enhanced Credibility: Earning a degree from an ABET-accredited program gives you an edge in the job market. It shows future employers that you’ve chosen a program that meets industry standards, boosting your credibility and making you a more attractive candidate.
But Wait, There’s More!
While the Civil Engineering program is currently ABET-in-waiting, Liberty University does boast an impressive lineup of other ABET-accredited programs in engineering. They’ve got their foot in the door, and they’re clearly committed to providing high-quality engineering education.
Here are some of Liberty’s ABET-accredited programs:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial & Systems Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
The Bottom Line
So, is Liberty University’s Civil Engineering program ABET accredited? Not yet, but it’s on its way! The program is young, but it’s already showing signs of maturity and commitment to excellence.
If you’re a prospective student, consider these factors:
- Are you patient? The program is still in its early stages, so you’ll need to wait a little while longer for that coveted ABET accreditation.
- Are you willing to take a chance? Liberty University has a strong track record in engineering education, and the Civil Engineering program is shaping up to be another success story.
- Do you value a faith-based education? Liberty University is a Christian university, so if this is important to you, then this program might be a good fit.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. Weigh the pros and cons, explore your options, and make the choice that’s best for your future. And remember, even though the Civil Engineering program hasn’t reached its full potential yet, it’s got the potential to be a great choice for your future career. Just like a freshly poured concrete foundation, it needs time to set and harden, but it will be strong and stable in the end.
Now, go forth and build something awesome!