When Did Liberty University’s Engineering Program Start? A Tale of Faith, Innovation, and Building Bridges (Literally)
You’re curious about Liberty University’s engineering program, huh? You want to know when this bastion of faith and academics decided to delve into the world of circuits, equations, and occasionally exploding prototypes? Well, buckle up, dear reader, because this is a story about more than just a school building a new department. It’s a story about ambition, a little bit of faith, and the kind of determination that could make a bridge out of toothpicks and prayers.
Let’s rewind the clock a bit. Think back to 2007, a time when skinny jeans were all the rage, the iPhone was still relatively new, and the world was about to be swept up in the Great Recession. It was in this exciting, tumultuous year that Liberty University decided to take a leap of faith and launch their brand-new School of Engineering.
Now, you might be thinking, “Why engineering, Liberty? Isn’t that a little out of character for a school known for its Christian values?” Well, here’s the thing. Liberty University, founded by the legendary Jerry Falwell Sr., has always been about building things, albeit not always literal bridges (although I’m sure they’d be pretty good at that). They believe in building strong minds, strong communities, and strong Christian values. And what better way to do that than by equipping their students with the skills to create, innovate, and solve real-world problems?
So, in 2007, the School of Engineering was born. It was a fresh start, a new chapter in Liberty’s story. They started small, offering degrees in Electrical, Computer, Software, and Industrial Engineering. It was a bold move, but it was one that paid off.
The School of Engineering quickly gained momentum, attracting students who were drawn to Liberty’s Christian values and its commitment to rigorous academic standards. They wanted to learn from professors who saw engineering not just as a career but as a calling, a way to use their talents to serve the world.
But the story doesn’t stop there. In 2020, Liberty took another bold step, launching their Civil Engineering program. Now, this was no ordinary program. This was a program designed to shape future leaders in the field, engineers who would not only build roads and bridges but would also be committed to ethical practice and responsible stewardship of the environment.
The civil engineering program, like its predecessors, is a testament to Liberty’s commitment to excellence. They’re not just building a program; they’re building a legacy.
But wait, there’s more! Liberty University is currently in the process of getting its Civil Engineering program accredited by ABET (the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). This is a big deal, folks. It’s a mark of quality and recognition that signifies that Liberty’s program meets the highest standards in the field.
So, there you have it. Liberty University’s engineering program didn’t just start in 2007; it’s been evolving ever since. It’s a program that reflects their core values and their commitment to preparing students for a future where faith and innovation go hand in hand.
Now, you might be wondering, “Is Liberty University’s engineering program any good?” Well, that’s a question with a multifaceted answer. While it’s not currently ranked among the top engineering schools in the country, Liberty is making strides.
Here are some things to consider:
- ABET Accreditation: Liberty’s engineering programs, including its newest civil engineering program, are on their way to achieving ABET accreditation. This is a mark of quality that’s recognized by employers around the world.
- Christian Values: If you’re looking for a university that integrates faith and learning, Liberty is a good choice. They believe that engineering is not just about building bridges but also about building lives.
- Modern Facilities: Liberty University has invested heavily in state-of-the-art facilities for their engineering students. They’ve got labs, workshops, and equipment that can rival some of the top engineering schools.
- Career Support: Liberty offers career services to help their engineering graduates find jobs. They have strong connections with industry partners and provide guidance on resume writing, interviewing, and networking.
So, is Liberty University’s engineering program right for you? It depends on your priorities and what you’re looking for in a university. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to do your research, visit the campus, and talk to current students and faculty.
Remember, choosing a university is a big decision. It’s a commitment, a journey, and a chance to shape your future. So, take your time, explore your options, and choose the school that feels right for you.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next great engineer to come out of Liberty University, building bridges, solving problems, and changing the world, one equation at a time.