Key Takeaways
- Morehead State University’s engineering technology and engineering technology management programs have been recommended for full ATMAE accreditation for the maximum six‑year term with no conditions.
- The recommendation covers the BS‑ET, BS‑ETM, and MS‑ETM degrees, including all program options and tracks.
- The visiting ATMAE team found full compliance with all 12 accreditation standards across seven programs.
- Strong student outcomes support the recommendation: graduation rates >80 %, average admitted GPA 3.36, 100 % job placement in four concentrations, and 83 % of alumni reporting promotions or salary increases within the past year.
- Faculty leadership emphasizes continuous improvement through curriculum updates, assessment, and collaboration with industry stakeholders.
- ATMAE accreditation assures that degrees meet nationally recognized quality standards valued by students, employers, and industry partners.
- The final decision rests with the ATMAE Board of Accreditation; upon approval, the six‑year term will reinforce Morehead State’s reputation as a leader in applied engineering and technology management education.
- For more information, contact Dr. Jen O’Keefe via email ([email protected]) or phone (606‑783‑2381).
Program Accreditation Overview
Morehead State University recently completed an accreditation review conducted by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). The visiting team concluded its on‑site evaluation in mid‑April and will recommend to the ATMAE Board of Accreditation that all of the university’s engineering technology and engineering technology management programs receive accreditation for the maximum allowable period of six years, with no further action required. This recommendation encompasses the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology (BS‑ET), the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology Management (BS‑ETM), and the Master of Science in Engineering Technology Management (MS‑ETM), including every concentration and track offered within those degrees. Achieving the full six‑year term without conditions signals that the programs consistently meet or exceed ATMAE’s rigorous standards.
ATMAE Visiting Team Findings
During the review, the ATMAE visiting team examined evidence related to the twelve accreditation standards that govern curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support, resources, and continuous improvement processes. The team reported full compliance across all seven programs and tracks associated with the engineering sciences department. This comprehensive adherence reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic quality, aligning program outcomes with industry expectations, and fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and professionally. The visiting team’s unanimous endorsement underscores the strength and coherence of Morehead State’s engineering technology offerings.
Student Success and Workforce Outcomes
The accreditation recommendation is bolstered by impressive student success metrics. All engineering sciences programs currently report graduation rates exceeding 80 %, indicating that the majority of enrolled students persist to degree completion. Incoming students possess an average GPA of 3.36, demonstrating a solid academic foundation upon entry. Graduates enjoy exceptional career outcomes: 100 % job placement has been recorded across four concentration areas, and 83 % of alumni report having received a promotion or salary increase within the past twelve months. These figures testify to the relevance of the curriculum, the effectiveness of experiential learning components, and the strong connections between the university and regional employers.
Faculty Leadership Statement
Dr. Jen O’Keefe, chair of the Department of Engineering Sciences, attributed the positive review to the dedicated efforts of the engineering faculty. She emphasized that continual program improvement is driven by systematic curricular adjustments, rigorous assessment practices, and active collaboration with stakeholders—including students, industry partners, and advisory boards. According to Dr. O’Keefe, this collaborative approach ensures that the programs remain responsive to evolving technological demands while maintaining a focus on student learning outcomes. Her remarks highlight the faculty’s role as both educators and industry liaisons, a dual focus that underpins the programs’ accreditation success.
ATMAE Role and Significance
The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering serves as the primary accrediting body for undergraduate technology management programs throughout the United States. ATMAE accreditation signals that a program meets nationally recognized quality standards established by professional and technical societies. For students, employers, and industry partners, this accreditation provides assurance that graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and competencies deemed essential by the engineering technology community. It also facilitates credit transfer, eligibility for certain professional certifications, and enhances the marketability of degrees in a competitive job market.
Dean’s Remarks
Dr. Ahmed Zagari, dean of the College of Science & Engineering, described the ATMAE team’s recommendation as an “extraordinary affirmation of program quality and relevance.” He noted that the combination of maximum accreditation without conditions and the outstanding student success metrics reflects the collective strength of the faculty, the preparedness of the student body, and the intrinsic value of a Morehead State engineering technology education. Dr. Zagari’s comments reinforce the institution’s strategic goal of being recognized as a leader in applied engineering and technology management education, both regionally and nationally.
Next Steps and Contact Information
The final accreditation decision awaits the formal action of the ATMAE Board of Accreditation. Once approved, the six‑year accreditation term will further solidify Morehead State University’s standing as a premier provider of engineering technology and technology management education. Prospective students, current learners, industry partners, and other stakeholders seeking additional details are encouraged to reach out to the Department of Engineering Sciences. Dr. Jen O’Keefe can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 606‑783‑2381 for inquiries about the programs, accreditation status, or related opportunities.