In response to a request from the ABET Board of Directors for input into their current environmental scanning and strategic planning process, NSPE provided written input on November 24 on key policy and planning issues facing engineering education accreditation. Addressing anticipated changes in the expected knowledge, skills, and abilities for new technical graduates entering engineering, NSPE reminded ABET of NSPE’s Engineering Body of Knowledge, which identifies 30 capabilities that an individual must know and possess to responsibly practice professional engineering.
Addressing anticipated changes in demand for ABET accreditation, NSPE noted that an ABET-EAC accredited education (as the requisite standard for licensure) is certainly good for licensure, but that licensure is also good for accreditation. NSPE urged ABET, in assessing its future, to place a greater emphasis on the value of licensure in engineering. NSPE acknowledged that many of its recommendations regarding ABET’s proposed revisions to Criteria 3 and 5 of the ABET Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs had been approved by ABET. However, NSPE strongly reiterated its request that ABET reconsider NSPE’s recommendations in full. NSPE understands that ABET has received some feedback suggesting that these criteria are difficult to meet. However, NSPE urged ABET to ensure that students are adequately prepared to enter the profession with the necessary skills, experience, and judgment.
To learn more, please read the letter from NSPE President Tim Austin, P.E., F.NSPE.