Dr. Orlando Hernandez, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and department chair, and Dr. Lisa Grega, associate professor of mechanical engineering and coordinator, consulted with the School of Humanities and Social Science in the creation of the new Policy and Society specialization under the Engineering Science degree program. This Bachelor of Science option is a unique fusion of social sciences and engineering, which fits well into the College’s liberal arts emphasis. It also aims to incorporate core values of the College: community engaged learning, global engagement and leadership development.
Due to the increase of engineer researchers and educators integrating social justice into their work and practice, the College has responded with “engineering for social justice” for those who are interested in the development of technology for impoverished areas. This idea will be infused into the students’ curriculum, research and service to the community.
The Policy and Society specialization would be optimal for students pursuing an engineering degree, but wanting to attend law school post-graduation or obtain a paratechnical career in government agencies, such as the FBI, CIA and NSA. This specialization will be available for students starting Fall of 2015.