The Development Of A Master Of Science Degree In Engineering Technology

Central Washington University (CWU) offers a Master of Science Degree in Engineering Technology (MSET) at two locations within the State of Washington. The MSET program is multi-disciplinary, having the specific purpose of broadening the technological backgrounds of persons holding bachelor degrees in Engineering Technology (ET), Industrial Technology (IT) or Engineering disciplines. The course offerings are intended to give the graduate student sufficient choices to fit diverse needs. This paper presents the history, the strategy, the problems encountered, and the future development plans for the program. However, despite the fact that the program is only in its second year of operation, expectations for the program are presently being met. Introduction Because the practice of engineering and engineering technology is advancing so rapidly, the practitioner is required to possess more knowledge than in years past. A master’s degree is an effective means of acquiring that knowledge in a reasonably short time. CWU has responded to the needs of working professionals and graduating students by developing the MSET program. This paper describes the development of a multi-disciplinary, Master of Science degree in engineering technology with the purpose of broadening the technological background of engineers and engineering technologists. Although the MSET degree is offered at two locations, in Puget Sound and at the main campus in Ellensburg, Washington, this paper focuses on the large population center of Puget Sound. The MSET program is conducted in a traditional manner at the main campus. At the Puget Sound location, the degree is taught in the evening to cohorts of working professionals. An examination of the literature indicates that institutions offering masters degrees in the engineering technologies is increasing. At present there are approximately 25 institutions offering or planning to offer a masters degree in engineering technology. The objectives of these institutions appear to be divided into two groups; those broadening the technological knowledge base and those offering management related course work. The Boeing Company has assisted CWU in establishing the MSET Program in the Puget Sound P ge 7.137.1