Engineering program earns
4th straight 'U.S. News' recognition

U.S.News & World Report has ranked the undergraduate engineering program at Northern Arizona University among the best in the nation for the fourth consecutive year.

The magazine's annual rankings of Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs, released today, lists NAU in a group of universities that ranks 38th in the nation. Others in the group include The Citadel, Boise State and Cal State-Northridge.

"This is terrific recognition for our faculty and for the many supporters who help us shape and provide opportunities for our students," said Laura Huenneke, dean of the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences. "We've been working harder to share 'best practices' in engineering education with other institutions."

For example, the dean said NAU has been working with the Engineering Schools of the West consortium that is supported by the Hewlett Foundation.

"One unique aspect is the strong service and community outreach component in many of the design projects tackled by our student teams," Huenneke pointed out. "Working with regional companies and agencies really helps students put their classroom learning into action, and helps them see how they can make a real-world difference."

The 2008 edition of "America's Best Colleges" will be published in the Aug. 27 issue of U.S. News & World Report, which will be available Monday.

"It is wonderful to be recognized for the great job we do in educating future engineers," said Debra Larson, chair of civil and environmental engineering. "By providing students with the full suite of professional skills necessary for success, our students are ready to contribute as soon as they graduate."

Larson said the engineering program engages its students from the start of their university career in the possibilities of engineering through its Design4Practice curriculum and many team competitions, service projects and undergraduate research experiences.

NAU has nearly 900 engineering majors in six specialties, including civil, electrical, environmental and mechanical engineering, computer science and construction management.

The engineering program partners with industry colleagues and government officials to better engage students with real engineering experiences, Larson pointed out. She added that the staff continually helps students move through the educational system, find internships and tutoring, and apply for scholarships.

"We are proud of our students and our faculty who go the distance in providing a top-notch curriculum and learning environment," Larson said.