Dr. James GrovesAssistant Dean, Research and Outreach

Community College, Engineering Transfer LiaisonSchool of Engineering and Applied Science

University of VirginiaPh: 434-924-6261

Em: jgroves@virginia.edu

Recruiting Students for STEMEngineering

What does an engineer do “on the job?”• Engineers design solutions to open-ended

problems• Engineers employ the engineering method of

problem solving– Understand the problem– Develop multiple possible solutions– Evaluate those possible solutions– Methodically select “the best” solution– Design and prototype the solution– Iterate

Characteristics of a Prospective Engineer• General interest in math and science

– On a path that will allow completion of precalculus before HS graduation

– A solid math foundation through precalculus is more important than shaky coverage through calculus.

• Math after algebra-trig…– Needs to be precalculus– Needs to be ongoing, don’t let them stop!

Characteristics of a Prospective Engineer• A detective

– Excited by the challenge of piecing together clues to develop a problem solution

– What is known, what is unknown, and where can I find additional, useful knowledge?

– Does a student enjoy the challenge of articulating questions?

– Knowledge and answers are nice. An ability to formulate good questions (and then answer them) can lead to distinction.

Characteristics of a Prospective Engineer• An explorer

– Motivated by the challenge of ill-defined problems

– Unafraid of “exploring in the dark” in search of a solution

– Sufficiently confident to add definition to ill-defined problems.

What to know about engineering studies• They can lead students to great

opportunities!– Intellectual reward (analytical problem solving)

o “Working” engineeroEngineering manageroOther professional

– Financial rewardoConsistently, engineering is the best paying

undergraduate occupation.oTypical starting salaries for new engineering bachelor

degree holders, $50,000 - $70,000 with benefits

What to know about engineering studies• Studying engineering is hard work – really

hard!!!– Long homework assignments– Rigorous tests, comprehensive exams– Time, time, time…

• Students need to be prepared to reshape their life schedule to be successful.

What to know about engineering studies• Plan to become an active learner, engaging

with fellow students and instructors.– Group study sessions– Faculty office hours– Tutoring extra help

• Ideally students will have an existing math foundation, through precalculus.– Bridging math is possible.

Positioning for engineering studies• FIRST LEGO and First Robotics– usfirst.org

• Project Lead the Way– www.pltw.org

• JETS– www.jets.org

• Continued and continuous engagement in math and science studies

The Community College to 4 Year Pathway• The community college will:

– Deliver essentially the same curriculum as a 4 year school

– Build a math, science, and engineering foundation

– Allow completion of humanities and social science electives

– Provide small class sizes– Cost less, on the order of 1/3 the cost!

~$7,000 vs. ~$21,000

The Community College to 4 Year Pathway• Students first earn an Associate of Science

in Engineering degree at a Virginia Community College– English composition, humanities, and social sciences– Introduction to engineering and computer programming– Calculus (4 semesters)– Chemistry (with lab)– Calculus-based physics (2 semesters)– 3 - 4 technical engineering classes (usually mechanical

or electrical in focus)

The Community College to 4 Year Pathway• The community college will:

– Allow students to earn an Associate of Science in Engineering degree (a transfer degree)

– Give an opportunity to earn Guaranteed Admission to a state four year program

– Give an opportunity to tap into the state’s Transfer Grant program (a $4000 scholarship)

www.seas.virginia.edu

UVA Transfer Process• Successfully complete the Associate of Science in

Engineering (or equivalent)• Demonstrate academic proficiency

– 3.2 GPA or higher

• Qualify via Guaranteed Admissionor

• Apply for regular transfer admission• March 1st application deadline!

SEAS Undergraduate Degrees• Aerospace Engineering• Biomedical Engineering• Chemical Engineering• Civil Engineering• Computer Engineering

• Computer Science• Electrical Engineering• Engineering Science• Mechanical Engineering• Systems Engineering

produced.seas.virginia.edu

Reasons to Consider this Pathway• Standard in-state tuition and fee structure• Position students early for local employment• Open up possibility of year-round internship• Develop advanced on-line professional skills• Tap into live classes, during the day

(recorded)

Connecting students and engineering

employers• The PRODUCED program believes that further development of ongoing, year-round work / study opportunities is a “win-win-win” – Students gain access to engineering work experience.– Companies can evaluate top talent early, generate

productivity, and hold the line on recruiting costs.– The academic programs are populated with students

motivated to continue and succeed.

www.seas.virginia.edu produced.seas.virginia.edu

Thank you!

Questions?Dr. James Groves

Assistant Dean, Research and OutreachCommunity College, Engineering Transfer Liaison

Ph: 434-924-6261Em: jgroves@virginia.edu