Computer and Engineering Degrees Gain Prestigious Accreditation

Continuing on its path of adding new STEM degrees and achieving academic success, Florida Polytechnic University has received accreditation for four of its bachelor’s degree programs.

The Computing and Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET — a nonprofit, non-governmental agency that accredits programs in engineering, engineering technology, applied and natural science, and computing, — accredited Florida Poly’s computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering programs.

Accreditation means the program has undergone a rigorous review and meets the quality standards necessary for graduates to pursue jobs in their technical fields.

Because the accreditation is retroactive to Oct. 1, 2017, students who graduated within the four fields since that date now have ABET-accredited degrees, said Lydia Guzman, director of communications. That’s critical, according to ABET’s website, because multinational companies seek students who graduate from ABET-accredited programs.

“It allows our graduates to be recruited with a top-quality degree,” Guzman said. “They will be in high demand to be hired.”

“Achieving this critical milestone is a remarkable accomplishment for Florida Poly,” said University President Dr. Randy K. Avent, adding that gaining this international accreditation is a “remarkable accomplishment.”

“Securing ABET accreditation for these four degrees proves the university’s commitment to providing students an excellent education through quality and effective programs,” he said.

ABET currently accredits 4,005 programs at nearly 800 colleges and universities in 32 different countries. Its peer-review process adds value to programs in which “quality, precision, and safety are of the utmost importance,” according to a press release.

Florida Poly prides itself on offering students more than just an in-class learning environment, offering project-based curricula, hands-on training, internships and more. ABET’s focus is similar, ensuring students learn and experience through curricula, faculty, facilities and institutional support.

“Our outstanding faculty worked tirelessly every step of the way to ensure success throughout the process,” said Dr. Terry Parker, provost and executive vice president of Florida Poly. “We congratulate our faculty as this accomplishment belongs to them. We are incredibly grateful for their diligent efforts.”