Houston Community College System (HCCS) Planning for Engineering Transfer

Houston Community College, Houston TX

Investigators

Abstract

PROPOSAL NO.: 0230615 PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Garcia, Carlos INSTITUTION NAME: Houston Community College TITLE: HCCS Planning for Engineering Transfer Abstract Houston Community College System Planning for Engineering Transfer The Houston Community College System (HCCS), a Hispanic Serving Institution with five colleges, has partnered with local and regional universities (the University of Houston, Lamar University) and community engineering agencies and corporations (NASA, Schlumberger) to develop an engineering transfer program. The primary goal of the project is to increase the number of underrepresented students enrolled in engineering degree programs. The planning group will develop the new curriculum by investigating best practices in engineering education through consultations and visits with exceptional programs throughout the country. Because Texas has no approved engineering community and junior college curriculum (approval is dependent upon credits accepted by the transfer institution), collaboration with university partners is critical to the success of the program. Ultimately, the program will serve as a model that can be replicated by colleges and universities throughout Texas and will set the standard for engineering transfer programs. The program will offer its greatest benefits to the underrepresented students who will find new career opportunities, and to the engineering industry, which will have an expanding pool of well-educated, successful employees.