Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering
Sharon A. Jones, Ph.D., P.E., dean
Tammy VanDeGrift, Ph.D., associate dean
Faculty: Albright, Crenshaw, Dillon, Doughty, Hoffbeck, A. Inan, M. Inan, Jones, Kennedy, Khan, Kuhn, Lu, Lulay, Male, Munro, Murty, Nuxoll, Osterberg, Schulz, Takallou, VanDeGrift, Vegdahl, Vijlee, Ward, Yamayee
Introduction
Engineering and computer science are dynamic and creative professions dedicated to achieving the technological aims of society. It is a profession in which knowledge of the natural sciences and mathematics is applied with judgement to develop ways to utilize, economically and with concern for the environment and society, the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of humankind. Engineers and computer scientists enjoy a unique professional satisfaction. They can usually point to tangible evidence of their efforts. For example, every artificial heart valve, skyscraper, solar panel, bridge, wind turbine, television, computer, robot, video game, smart phone, search engine, airplane, and automobile is a lasting testimonial to the engineers and computer scientists responsible for the design.
Mission
The Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering continues its progress within the framework of the University of Portland mission.
The Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering is committed to providing the best possible education to its students, thus enabling the students to become competent practicing engineers and computer scientists. The programs also provide a base for both graduate study and lifelong learning in support of evolving career objectives. These objectives include being informed, effective, and responsible participants in the engineering profession and society. The Shiley School endeavors to develop qualities that are essential for the practice of engineering and beneficial service to the community. These qualities include a knowledge of engineering and computer science principles, the ability to apply those principles to solve problems, and the development of professional, personal, and social values.
The Shiley School provides a personalized and caring learning environment for its students, enhanced by high quality faculty, staff, facilities, and equipment. The environment includes exceptional instruction; frequent opportunities for relevant laboratory experience; practice of communication and teamwork skills; the challenge of undertaking realistic projects; and the personal attention, guidance, and example of faculty and administrators. This environment is also enhanced by students who have an aptitude and motivation for engineering and computer science study, as well as general intellectual curiosity.
Program Educational Objectives
The Shiley School of Engineering prepares graduates who will:
- Be successful as practicing professionals in diverse career paths or in graduate school.
- Distinguish themselves in breadth of perspective and the ability to solve complex problems.
- Be effective communicators and team members, with many assuming leadership roles.
- Be active in their profession and participate in continuing education opportunities to foster personal and organizational growth.
- Demonstrate a concern for justice, ethical behavior, and societal improvement through participation in professional and civic organizations.
Professional Societies
Student chapters of the following professional societies are currently active on campus:
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
American Society for Metals (ASM — International)
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)
Engineers without Borders (EWB - USA)
Engineering World Health (EWH)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
All students are encouraged to join organizations of interest to them. The University of Portland Oregon Gamma Chapter of Tau Beta Pi, the national engineering honor society, offers admission to the top upper-division engineering and computer science students.
Community College Transfers
Transfers from community colleges are accepted regardless of whether they have completed a course of study. Students from engineering transfer programs can generally complete the B.S. degree requirements with no loss of time. Students from non-engineering programs will likely need more time to complete prerequisites. Students who are interested in transferring to the University are encouraged to seek individual counseling both at their community college and at the University. Discussions at the University can be used both to develop a suitable academic plan and financial plan.
Prospective transfer students are strongly urged to contact the Academic Program Counselor for the Shiley School at least one semester before they plan to transfer to identify potential deficiencies that may cause sequencing problems and delay graduation. In some cases, students can save a full semester by taking key courses in the summer preceding planned entry.