Integrating a New Manufacturing Engineering Program Into a Univerity's Existing Repertoir.

Starting up an institution’s first ever engineering program requires consideration of many factors. As well, addressing the concerns of other departments that the new program will negatively affect enrollment in existing programs, is primary. In the case of the new Manufacturing Engineering program at Eastern Kentucky University, a place had to be found amongst Physics, Engineering Physics, and existing Engineering Technology Management programs with established reputations. It was important to differentiate the program from other EKU programs as well as programs at nearby universities. These goals were accomplished by showing where the program fit on a continuum of interests and regional need from Physics to Engineering Technology, and even consideration of technician level training. It was relatively easy to show an industry demand for the program, but this was always emphasized. Finally, a case was made for how this program would increase overall enrollment in the university. Of particular importance was showing that the program did not represent higher or lower prestige, or higher difficulty, but rather a different skill set filling a different industry need. In other words, a different product that this university is uniquely capable of delivering.