AU Engineering Still Offering In-Person Experiences
Anderson University’s engineering program, based out of Anderson, Indiana, prides itself on creating a culture of service and collaboration growing the next generation of innovators, designers, producers, testers, creators and problem-solvers. In a year marred by a global pandemic, Anderson University’s commitment to its students remains stronger than ever. With small class sizes, social distancing and a mask mandate, AU is committed to maintaining quality in-person instruction while keeping students safe.
This quality in-person instruction begins with the same professional, gold-standard ABET accreditation as public universities, but unlike other schools, AU provides small class sizes with a cohort feel. Senior engineering physics major Riley Braselton feels that this close relationship with the faculty is what makes Anderson University’s engineering program special. “Without their guidance, patience and direction I’m not sure I would be where I am today in engineering. I have no idea how people go to big 10 schools and get degrees in my field. The one-on-one connection and attention is really what has helped me thrive.”
At Anderson University, students are taught and graded by doctoral-level faculty rather than graduate assistants. Also unlike other schools, Anderson University students have the opportunity to utilize the facilities, equipment and tools in the AU Engineering Center starting day one, instead of months or even years into their college careers. “With the hands-on experience I’m able to receive, I feel prepared for whatever job I end up getting,” Braselton says of this unique feature of the program. With classes still in person, engineering students are still benefiting from hands-on experiences, even in the middle of the pandemic.
Anderson University’s hands-on approach to engineering is often combined with the school’s mission to prepare students for a life of faith and service. According to Dean of the School of Science and Engineering Dr. Chad Wallace, “An AU engineer is an outstanding engineer who has the heart to serve others. For instance, I am proud to report our students have already completed projects like developing a prosthetic hand that can be cheaply 3D printed. These students made those plans freely available and open-source so people anywhere in the world have the ability to make their own prosthetic hands. We are beginning to expand our humanitarian efforts with trips planned to use our engineering skills to solve basic human needs of water, shelter, safe food, power in underdeveloped communities.”
Other opportunities for engineering students at AU include an engineering club, projects that collaborate with other departments and engineering competitions, such as the evGrand Prix and Solar Car team races. In its first year competing, AU students won the 2019 Autonomous Division of the Electric Vehicle Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, with a fastest last time 22% faster than Purdue University in second place. Other projects students have worked on recently include building a VR helmet, working with the biology program to build a plant growth chamber and working with the Campus Activities Board (CAB) to build an AU Ninja Warrior course for the annual student competition.
Even in a year where classes are moving online and opportunities are canceled, Anderson University’s engineering program is still providing in-person instruction and hands-on projects from day one. Masked up and socially distanced, students can still pursue engineering degrees in computer, electrical, mechanical or mechatronic engineering. Anderson University’s engineering program is making the students a priority by providing scholarships to make quality engineering instruction possible in these difficult times. High school seniors graduating in 2021 can apply for a $5,000 scholarship if they are focusing in engineering, and Madison County students are eligible for an even bigger scholarship. Regardless of major or location, 100% of Anderson University students receive financial aid.
To sum up her experience at Anderson University, Braselton said, “While the classes and equipment are great, the engineering department would not be the same without the amazing professors. Anderson did a wonderful job in selecting them and I have been so blessed to learn from them.”
Anderson University is a private, liberal arts institution in Anderson, Indiana with a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service in the church and society. Anderson University is recognized among top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, Colleges of Distinction, and The Princeton Review. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university now offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, music education, and theology.
Anderson University is a private, liberal arts institution in Anderson, Indiana with a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service in the church and society. Anderson University is recognized among top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, Colleges of Distinction, and The Princeton Review. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, the university now offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, music education, and theology.