Developing A New Program In Marine Engineering Technology

The Department of Engineering Technology, in the Batten College of Engineering and Technology at Old Dominion University, in conjunction with members of its advisory board and other industry representatives have begun a sustained effort to promote and develop a strong course of study in Marine Engineering Technology. Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University, and particularly the Department of Engineering Technology, is uniquely positioned to develop such a program. With strong ties to the world’s largest Naval Base and superlative shipbuilding, maintenance and repair facilities, early qualitative research indicated high interest for development of such a program in support of one of the regions largest industries. The Marine Engineering Technology program’s goal is to provide the student with the skills necessary for success working in the commercial or naval ship design field and includes exposure to basic ship characteristics, the unique aspects of ship design, familiarization with ship construction processes and techniques, various shipboard systems, basic shipboard operations and maintenance principles and philosophies. This paper provides insight into expanding existing TAC of ABET accredited programs to meet the needs of an industry segment until the program is ready to seek independent accreditation. This paper also details the process and to-date progress of establishing this program. It also highlights the collaborative process between industry and academia in the development of new curricula to meet the needs of a particular industry segment.