In the context of our strategic plan, a pillar refers to a fundamental area of focus that supports and drives the overall strategy of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences (CEAS). Each pillar represents a core component of our strategic framework, encapsulating a specific domain where concerted efforts and resources will be directed to achieve our vision and mission. Pillars are broad in scope and encompass multiple priorities, objectives, and tactics that collectively contribute to our overarching strategic aims.

Guided by our vision to be a leader in engineering and applied sciences education and research, and recognized for our impact on technological innovation, economic development, and societal well-being, we have structured our strategic plan around four pivotal pillars: Undergraduate Education, Graduate Education, Research, and Community Engagement and Professional Service. These pillars embody our mission to provide an excellent education in engineering and applied sciences, foster innovative research, and contribute to the advancement of society through collaboration with industry and community partners. 

• Through our commitment to Undergraduate Education, we strive to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. 
• Our focus on Graduate Education is designed to cultivate advanced scholars who push the boundaries of knowledge and drive innovation. 
• In Research, we are dedicated to pioneering transformative discoveries that address critical challenges and open new frontiers. 
• Lastly, our emphasis on Community Engagement and Professional Service reflects our dedication to applying our expertise for fostering strong partnerships, promoting professional integrity, and supporting the betterment of society. Together, these strategic themes ensure that we remain at the forefront of engineering and applied sciences, advancing our vision and fulfilling our mission.

The College of Engineering and Applied Sciences is committed to providing a transformative undergraduate experience that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability required to thrive in an evolving technological landscape. Through rigorous academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and strong faculty mentorship, we prepare students to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to society. We prioritize student success by fostering an inclusive and supportive environment from recruitment to graduation, ensuring that every student is empowered to reach their full potential.

Priority 1: Recruit, retain and graduate a well-qualified and diverse undergraduate student body.

Objectives

1. Increase undergraduate enrollment headcount to 2400 by 2029.
2. Maintain the enrollment of females and under-represented minorities above 20% ea
3. Maintain first year retention rates of first-time in any college (FTIAC) at 80% or better.
4. Improve first year retention rates across all demographics to 80% or better.
   Increase and maintain our six-year graduation rate for FTIAC students to 60% or better.

Priority 2: Recruit and retain well-qualified and diverse faculty and staff to support excellence in undergraduate instruction and advising.

Objectives

1. Increase permanent faculty headcount to 105 by 2029.
2. Assure faculty in each undergraduate program is sufficient to maintain continuity, stability, oversight, student interaction, and advising.
3. Increase the diversity of our faculty applicant pool.
4. Provide professional opportunities for faculty to increase their effectiveness as instructors and career advisors
5. Provide professional opportunities for staff development.

Priority 3: Ensure adequate infrastructure/facilities/equipment to support the attainment of our undergraduate student outcomes and to provide an atmosphere conducive to learning.

Objectives

1. Provide appropriate and sufficient spaces for undergraduates to conduct senior capstone design, student registered organization, and undergraduate research projects, and other experiential learning activities.
2. Ensure modern classroom space and tools to support effective instruction.
3. Ensure adequate laboratory space, equipment, and software to support effective instruction.

Priority 4: Offer programs and academic pathways for engineering and applied sciences students and graduates that align with stakeholders’ needs and feedback.

Objectives

1. Ensure the curriculum in each program area is comprehensive, up-to-date, and aligns with student outcomes and educational objectives.
2. Create and promote dual-enrollment programs. 
3. Create and promote certificates and certifications which may lead to stackable credentials.
4. Develop and maintain articulation agreements with two-year and four-year institutions that support student access.
5. Create and support experiential learning within the content and context of our programs.
6. Support international experiences.
7. Cultivate and support external practical training, such as internships, CPT, and OPT.

The College of Engineering and Applied Sciences is dedicated to cultivating advanced scholars who push the boundaries of knowledge and drive technological innovation. Our graduate programs are designed to develop expertise, critical thinking, and leadership skills, preparing students for impactful careers in industry, government, and academia. Through cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development opportunities, we create an environment where graduate students thrive as innovators and problem-solvers in their respective fields.

Priority 5: Offer programs and academic pathways that attract and retain a diverse and well-qualified graduate student population.

Objectives

1. Increase graduate enrollment headcount to 450 by 2029.
2. On average, full-time M.S. and Ph.D. students will complete their degree requirements in 2 and 4 years, respectively.
3. Grow funding for graduate assistantships.
4. Create, maintain, and market innovative graduate programs, such as international experiences, 1+1 masters degree programs, and accelerated graduate degree programs.
5. Cultivate and support practical training, such as internships, CPT, and OPT.
6. Offer graduate experiences tied to program objectives and outcomes.
7. Ensure the curriculum in each program area is faculty driven, up-to-date, and prepares graduates for future opportunities and challenges.
8. Create and promote graduate certificates and certifications which may lead to stackable credentials.

Priority 6: Recruit and retain well-qualified and diverse faculty to support effective graduate instruction and advising.

Objectives

1. Assure faculty in each graduate program is sufficient to maintain continuity, stability, oversight, student interaction, and advising.
2. Increase diversity of faculty applicant pool.
3. Provide professional opportunities for faculty to increase their effectiveness as instructors, researchers, and academic and career advisors.

The College of Engineering and Applied Sciences is committed to advancing knowledge through transformative research that addresses global challenges and fosters technological breakthroughs. By integrating research with education and hands-on experience, we cultivate an environment where faculty and students collaborate to develop innovative solutions. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, interdisciplinary partnerships, and external funding, we aim to expand our research impact and drive progress in engineering and applied sciences.

Priority 7: Create and sustain an environment conducive to faculty productivity in research and scholarship.

Objectives

1. Research expenditures over a three-year average will increase to at least $7.5M by 2032.
2. Provide robust funding and infrastructure to support active CEAS faculty researchers with the goal of increasing external funding with full F & A and funded research positions.
3. Continue to create endowed professorships supported by private donors, industry, and foundations.
4. Develop a model for more effective research space allocation.
5. Create incentives for collaboration across departments and/or colleges for interdisciplinary research, space, and equipment.

Priority 8: Increase student participation in research and scholarship.

Objectives

1. The percentage of CEAS graduating seniors who have had a paid research experience will be at least 15% by 2028 and 18% by 2032.
2. The percentage of CEAS graduate students taking thesis/dissertation credits and receiving financial support will reach at least 40% by 2028 and 50% by 2032.
3. Increase the total support for undergraduate students engaged in research.
4.  Increase the number of students included in professional publications.

The College of Engineering and Applied Sciences is dedicated to leveraging our expertise to strengthen industry partnerships, support lifelong learning, and contribute to societal well-being. We actively engage with local and global communities through outreach initiatives, service-learning projects, and professional collaborations. By fostering strong relationships with industry leaders, alumni, and community organizations, we enhance educational opportunities, promote economic development, and prepare students to become ethical and engaged professionals who make meaningful contributions to society.

Priority 9: Foster engagement in the community

Objectives

1. Serve as a technical and academic resource to our constituents and community.
2. Actively participate in service-learning projects with community organizations.
3. Encourage faculty, staff, and student participation in outreach opportunities.
4. Support faculty and staff participation with external boards and professional organizations.
5. Market CEAS programs, opportunities, and activities to the community.
6. Identify community experiential learning opportunities available through RSO projects.

Priority 10: Support and strengthen industry and alumni relations.

Objectives

1. Enhance learning through collaboration with industry.
2. Create an easy process for “fee for service” projects.
3. Strengthen the engagement of our alumni with the college.
4. Grow the number of externally sponsored senior design projects.
5. Encourage and foster industry partnerships with RSOs and RSO projects.