March 1-3, 2006

 

ITEM 130-1503-R0306   - Approval of Proposal to offer an Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering; Montana Tech of The University of Montana.

 

THAT:   The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Montana Tech of The University of Montana to offer a B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering; Montana Tech of The University of Montana.

 

EXPLANATION:   Montana Tech of the University of Montana proposes that the B.S. and M.S. in General Engineering Electrical Engineering Option be offered as a standalone Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. The change will improve the marketability and job opportunities for the graduates.

Through internal review and consultation with an external ABET expert, Montana Tech fully expects that the change proposed here will require no added faculty, laboratories, or costs.  The BSEE program proposed here is anticipated to meet the requirements for a standalone EE accredited degree.  Also, the proposed degrees will be housed within the General Engineering Department and maintain their multi-disciplinary character.

In addition to improving student opportunities, the proposed changes will also help support a growing externally funded research program at Montana Tech.  In partnership with MSE Technologies, Montana Tech has recently been awarded a $2,000,000 federally funded research grant to develop intelligent electric power technologies.  The majority of this money will be dedicated to conducting research at Montana Tech.  Tech's principal goal is to develop a world-class educational and research capability.  The proposed degrees are the backbone to this capability.