The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois and Chicago State University announce a new 4+1 pathway program for physics students interested in pursuing graduate studies in electrical and computer engineering. The innovative five-year program gives CSU physics students a direct route to a Master of Engineering from one of the nation's top-ranked engineering programs.
"The demand for advanced engineering professionals in the workforce continues to grow, and this program gives CSU students a clear, cost-effective path to meet that need," said Jonathan Makela, Abel Bliss Professor and associate dean for Undergraduate Programs at Grainger Engineering. "We're proud we can open a door for these exceptional physicists so they can continue to pursue careers and challenges that change people's lives."
Through the partnership, Grainger Engineering's M.Eng. in Electrical and Computer Engineering program will guarantee admission to CSU students who meet the academic requirements. Students will also have access to a dedicated Illinois-CSU liaison for support throughout their education. To earn the M.Eng. in Electrical and Computer Engineering degree, students complete a Bachelor of Science in Physics with an engineering focus at CSU, including two undergraduate semesters at Illinois, then transition to a full year of graduate study at Illinois.
"This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to graduate engineering education and to bringing talented students into our community of researchers and innovators who are shaping the world." — Jennifer Truman Bernhard, Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Head
Dr. Archie Peters, Interim Chair of the Department of Chemistry, Physics and Engineering at CSU, emphasized the program's strategic design. "Our physics program with an engineering focus has always prepared students for rigorous graduate study and professional success. This partnership formalizes that pathway with one of the premier engineering schools in the country, giving our students both the personalized attention they receive at CSU and access to Illinois' cutting-edge resources and research opportunities."
"We're excited to welcome CSU students into our Master of Engineering program," said Jennifer Truman Bernhard, Donald Biggar Willett Professor and head of the department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in The Grainger College of Engineering. "This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to graduate engineering education and to bringing talented students into our community of researchers and innovators who are shaping the world."
Students interested in the 4+1 pathway can begin planning with advisors in CSU's Department of Chemistry, Physics and Engineering Studies. The program is open to students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Physics with an engineering focus.