Wilkes University’s Civil Engineering Program Receives ABET Accreditation

Wilkes University's Civil Engineering Program Receives ABET Accreditation

Wilkes University's bachelor of science degree program in civil engineering has been accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. The civil engineering program, which was introduced by the University in 2021, offers students a bachelor of science degree with four concentrations to choose from: environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, or water resources and hydraulic engineering.

"We are so honored to have our civil engineering program recognized for its academic experience and student outcomes by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET," said President James Cousins. "Our engineering programs have been proven to be of exceptional quality for more than 40 years. This most recent recognition by ABET demonstrates Wilkes University's continual excellence in educating the next generation of engineers, ensuring that our graduates are ready to meet and address the world's most pressing needs."

Through the program's curriculum, civil engineering students explore all facets of foundations and structures, public water and sewage systems, storm water management, and air, solid, water and hazardous waste treatment processes to prepare for careers in structural, geotechnical, environmental and project engineering.

"ABET accreditation affirms that our engineering students are well prepared to enter the workforce and have the job-ready skills needed to succeed, whether they choose to pursue career paths in private industry or public service," said Abel Adekola, dean of the College of Business and Engineering. "The outcomes of our graduates show the dedication of our exceptional faculty and staff who prepare our graduates through academic rigor, hands-on learning opportunities, and dedicated mentorship."

ABET accreditation assures that programs, like Wilkes University's civil engineering degree, meet standards to produce graduates ready to enter critical technical fields that are leading the way in innovation and emerging technologies, as well as anticipating the welfare and safety needs of the public.

"We are so pleased to have been awarded accreditation," said Holly Frederick, professor and chair of civil engineering. "In civil engineering, a professional license is essential and graduating from an accredited program is the first step in this process. Now, our students as well as our alumni are on the path to obtain that professional license."

Wilkes was first granted initial ABET accreditation for the electrical engineering program in 1980, followed by accreditations for environmental engineering and mechanical engineering in 1995. Those accreditations were most recently reaffirmed in 2022.

Wilkes University offers a variety of undergraduate majors and master's degrees in engineering fields that include bioengineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, engineering management, environmental engineering and mechanical engineering. To learn more, visit wilkes.edu/majors