The ACCEND program: a combined BS and MS program in environmental engineering that includes co-operative work...

Area of Science:

• Environmental engineering education
• Civil engineering
• Higher education pedagogy

Background:

• Rapid expansion in environmental engineering education necessitates innovative teaching methods.
• Industry professionals advocate for a Master of Science (MS) in environmental engineering as the minimum qualification.
• Practical training is considered essential for environmental engineering practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an innovative integrated BS in Civil Engineering and MS in Environmental Engineering program.
• To highlight the inclusion of extensive co-operative education (co-op) experience.
• To present a five-year program model combining academic rigor with practical application.

Main Methods:

• Integration of Bachelor of Science (BS) in Civil Engineering and Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Engineering curricula.
• Incorporation of extensive co-operative education (co-op) work experience.
• Inclusion of distance learning opportunities during co-op periods.

Main Results:

• Graduates are well-trained with enhanced professionalism and maturity.
• The program leads to higher salaries and more challenging career opportunities.
• A five-year integrated model effectively combines academic and practical training.

Conclusions:

• The innovative BS/MS program with co-op provides a superior educational experience in environmental engineering.
• This model addresses the need for advanced, practical training in the field.
• Graduates are better prepared for the demands of the environmental engineering profession.