Department of Physics, Geology, and Engineering Technology - B.S. in Engineering Physics

z-2019-2020 Program - New - Major or Certificate

completed

What can I do next?

View the Proposal

  • View changes to the proposal by clicking the Discussion tab and selecting "Show current with markup" on the User Tracking dropdown.
  • View current comments concerning this proposal by clicking the Discussion tab.
  • View the history of the proposal by clicking the Workflow Status tab.
  • View the signatures the proposal has collected by clicking the Signatures tab.
  • View the files associated with the proposal by clicking the Files tab.
  • Compare the proposal with related proposal by clicking the Proposal Lookup tab.
General Catalog Information
Next

  • Select Program below.

    Shared Cores are available in Acalog for shared information in program curriculum.

  • Type of Program *

  • **Read before you begin**

    1. Please turn on the help text before starting this proposal by clicking on the icon in the top right corner of the heading. Items with help text indicating format should be typed in the exact format as the help text (excluding the quote marks).
    2. Once all required fields have been filled in, click in the upper left corner, to launch proposal.
    3. Once you have launched the proposal form you can then begin editing imported fields, adding justifications, etc. All changes from that point will be tracked. Optionally, you may also attach syllabi or any additional supporting documents by clicking on the Proposal Toolbox icon.  . Please be aware that forms submitted without appropriate justifications will be returned to the proposer without consideration.
  • Status*
  • Identify Purpose of Proposal*
  • BASIC INFORMATION
  • College*
  • Department*
    (e.g. Department, Division, School)
  • Program Level*
  • Title of Proposed Degree Program*
    B.S. in Engineering Physics
    B.S. in Engineering Physics
  • Provide Catalog Program Description:*

    Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics  is designed for students who have an interest in both engineering and physics.  The proposed degree program consists of courses from physics, engineering technology, mathematics, computer science, statistics and chemistry as required courses. It requires 31 credit hours of physics courses, 21 credit hours of engineering technology courses as the core requirement. In addition, the students are required to choose a track either from mechanical & manufacturing engineering technology or electronics engineering technology which will consist of 12 credit hours. As supporting requirements, a student will take 30 credit hours in chemistry, mathematics statistics and computer science. Therefore, the total credit hours required for the degree is 94 credit hours (in addition to the General Studies requirements).

    This bacelors' degree program is designed to  produce graduates who will combine knowledge in advanced physics and engineering technology to solve problems in engineering fields. The graduates from this program will have knowledge and practical experience in designing, planning, testing, evaluating, reporting, as well as process management and problem solving skills. A graduate in engineering physics will:
     
    1. Be able to gain employment in engineering, technical, or leadership careers where they continue to enhance their knowledge in mechanical or electronics engineering disciplines.
    2. Be able to pursue graduate studies in physics, engineering or applied physics. 

     

  • Does this proposal require TEC approval?*

  • Substantive Change:  Please use the following link to determine if this will constitute a SACCOC substantive change to NKU's current curriculum.   Substantive Change Form
    This form must be filled out, signed by the submitter and appropriate Dean (or Designee), and uploaded to this curriculog proposal.  If you have question about this form please contact the SACSCOC Liaison, Abdou Ndoye at ndoyea2@nku.edu or 859-572-5379

  • What previously approved NKU programs are closely related to this new program and how are they related?

    B.S. in Eingeering Technology and B.A. in Physics.  The proposed program has 31 credit hours from Engineering Technology and 31 credit hours of physics. Hence the proposed major overlaps with both degrees.

  • Will this constitute a SACSCOC Substantive Change?*
  • Degree Level*
  • If Certificate, select appropriate option
  • Program Type*
  • Degree Type*
  • Name of Program Director*
    Dr. Sharmanthie Fernando
    Dr. Sharmanthie Fernando
  • Intended Date of Implementation*
    Fall 2019
    Fall 2019
  • Anticipated Date for Granting First Degrees*
    Summer 2022
    Summer 2022
  • Evaluation Criteria

  • All actions in the approval of new programs for public institutions are subject to a stipulation regarding the program’s ability to attain specified goals that have been established by the institution and approved by the Council on Postsecondary Education (the Council). At the conclusion of an appropriate period of time, the program’s performance shall be reviewed by Council staff following criteria established in the Council’s Academic Programs Policy.

  • Centrality to the Institution’s Mission and Consistency with State’s Goals

  • A program will adhere to the role and scope of the institution as set forth in its mission statement and as complemented by the institution’s strategic plan.

    Follow this link to view the state's postsecondary education strategic agenda.

  • 1. List the objectives of the proposed program. These objectives should deal with the specific institutional and societal needs that this program will address.*
    Brief description of the program:
    The engineering physics program is designed for students who have an interest in both engineering and physics.  The proposed degree program consists of courses from physics, engineering technology, mathematics, computer science and chemistry as required courses. It requires 31 credit hours of physics courses, 21 credit hours of engineering technology courses as the core requirement. In addition, the students are required to choose a track either from mechanical engineering or electronics engineering which will consists of 12 credit hours. As supporting requirements, a student will take 30 credit hours in chemistry, mathematics and computer science. Therefore, the total credit hours required for the degree is 94 credit hours (in addition to the General Studies requirements).
     
    The proposed degree does not require any additional resources currently since it will utilize the existing courses offered regularly at NKU. It capitalizes the fact that both physics and engineering technology disciplines are housed in the same department and offers future growth to both disciplines.
     
    There are   two tracks within the Engineering Physics degree as follows:
     
    B.S. Engineering Physics, Mechanical and Manufacturing Track: This track will require 12 credit hours from courses in engineering technology with specialization in mechanical and manufacturing: the courses required are Quality Control (3 credit hours), Metrology and Geometric Tolrencing (3 credit hours), Electro-mechanical instrumentation and control (3 credit hours), and Machine design (3 credit hours). A student completing the degree in this track will be able to design, manufacture, test and maintain mechanical systems.
     
    B.S. Engineering Physics, Electronics Track: This track requires 12 credit hours from courses in engineering technology with specialization in electronics: the courses are Digital electronics (3 credit hours), AC circuit analysis (3 credit hours), Microprocessors (3 credit hours), and Advanced microprocessors (3 credit hours). A student completing the degree in this track will be able to design, build, test and maintain electronic systems.
     
          The objectives of the proposed program:
     
    The program objectives are to produce graduates who will combine knowledge in advanced physics and engineering technology to solve problems in engineering fields. It is also the intension to fill a critical need in the Northern Kentucky region by training skilled individuals who can be in the work force to fill positions in engineering related jobs. The graduates from this program will have knowledge and practical experience in designing, planning, testing, evaluating, reporting, as well as process management and problem solving skills. A graduate in engineering physics will:
     
    1. Be able to gain employment in engineering, technical, or leadership careers where they continue to enhance their knowledge in mechanical or electronics engineering disciplines.
    2. Be able to pursue graduate studies in physics, engineering or applied physics. 
    3. Be able to communicate effectively and practice effective team work in a technical or multidisciplinary working environment.
    4. Be able to practice ethical, professional, and social responsibilities in their professional lives and community service.
    5. Be able to attain skills necessary to engage in self-directed continuing professional development.
    These objectives should deal with the specific institutional and societal needs that this program will address.
  • 2. Explain how the proposed program relates to the institutional mission and academic strategic plan. *
    Currently, the institutional mission and strategic priorities are governed by the NKU Fuel the Flame Strategic Goals (2013 –2018). There are 5 main goals in that document.
     
    The B.S. in Engineering Physics degree supports the NKU Strategic Plan in the following specific areas in those 5 goals:
     
    Student Success: “Strengthen critical thinking, communication, and team work skills across the disciplines and through co-curricular programs”
     
    The proposed program embraces multidisciplinary approach by combining courses from engineering, physics, mathematics, chemistry, and computer science. The student learning outcomes are set such that the graduates of this program will have strong critical thinking, communication and team work skills which will prepare them to work in the industry or government organizations.
     
    Talent Development: “Produce skilled graduates prepared for the workforce, advanced careers, and graduate education: Increase co-ops, internships, workshops, and other applied learning experiences”
    The proposed degree will produce graduates who will be able to work in the engineering field or go to graduate school in engineering, physics or applied physics. They will be required to have a co-op experience in a local engineering industry.
     
    Academic Innovation: “Expand relevant programs in high-demand fields to meet regional workforce needs”
    The proposed program will provide high quality engineering education to help students graduate with a degree which is in high demand. In the Northern Kentucky region, NKU is the only institution providing a four-year degree in engineering technology. By expanding that to include a four-year degree in engineering physics, the program will be able to meet the work force needs of the region.
     
    Community Engagement: “Collaborate with community partners to expand applied learning and research opportunities”
    The engineering physics program will increase the level of partnerships between NKU and area industries, local government and local businesses to provide applied learning and experiential learning for its students. The engineering physics program also will increase the awareness of STEM and disciplines in the Northern Kentucky region.
     
    Institutional Excellence: “Increase public awareness of NKU’s strengths and contributions to the region and state”
    The strength of the engineering physics program is to provide potential leaders, managers, and supervisors in industry or in government agencies in the region and the state. The program will be marketed to the regional and state entities to attract potential students to the program.
  • 3. Explain how the proposed program addresses the state’s postsecondary education strategic agenda.*

    NKU Engineering Physics degree program supports the statewide postsecondary education strategic agenda for 2016 – 2021 as follows:
    Student Success:
    Objective 9:     Improve the career readiness and employability of postsecondary education graduates.
    Strategy 9.1: Make career development a state and institutional priority and a key strategy for student success. Improve career development through earlier advising efforts, clearly articulated career pathways, degree maps, tools that match skills to jobs and students with employers, and entrepreneurship training.


    The proposed engineering physics degree with two tracks in mechanical and manufacturing and electronics engineering will prepare the students to be successful in the modern industry with the training they get through this program.  The Department of physics, geology and engineering technology has a strong advising program where students are guided from the first semester to be prepared to complete the degree on time and to be prepared for inclusion in the work force. There are clear degree maps in place for the students to complete the degree. Students will have hands on experience with engineering subjects that will prepare them for future jobs in the industry.

    Strategy 9.2: Survey higher education alumni and Kentucky employers to assess the career readiness of Kentucky graduates and identify needed skills and competencies for current and future employment opportunities.

    A need assessment survey has been done with the local industries in the Northern Kentucky region as to employability of engineering physics graduates and the skills that are expected from the employers. Our survey indicated that 62.5% of respondents anticipate the hiring of 1 to 15 engineering professionals, 12.5% will hire 16 to 50 and 12.5% will more than 50 in the next 5 years. More information on this survey in pages 9 – 11.

    Strategy 9.3: Work with the employer community, foundations, and state agencies to provide “work and learn” opportunities, including experiential or project-based learning, co-ops, internships, externships, and clinical experiences.

    Engineering physics degree students will have one semester of mandatory training in the local industry as co-op education. This is a great opportunity for students to “work and learn” on how to apply the engineering subjects they have learnt in the program. Companies such as Mazak, Bosch Automotive, Fives, Mubea are some of the local industries where students will do their co-op education. 

    9.4. Promote regular, meaningful employer involvement in the development and evaluation of
    postsecondary programs that are relevant to their business/industry.

    The engineering technology program at NKU has an advisory board who meet once a year to give feed back to the faculty and administrators of the programs. The board consists of members from the local industry where NKU graduates are employed, as well as alumni. We will be able to gain feedback from relevant industry and business in the region to develop and implement the engineering physics program via the advisory board.

    Economic and Community Development:

    During the 2017 Governor’s Conference on Postsecondary Education Trusteeship, the Governor of Kentucky, Matt Bevin made the statement “My vision for Kentucky is that we become the absolute center for engineering and manufacturing excellence in USA.”  In order to achieve this goal, the universities across Kentucky were urged to produce more engineering graduates.  By producing engineering physics graduates we are supporting this initiative and help the economic development of the state. There is a shortage of employees in engineering and manufacturing in the region. The employers in the region have expressed the need to have trained individual to local institutions’ faculty and administrators. Engineering physics graduates who has essential critical thinking skills and problem solving skills in engineering will be able to become leaders, supervisors, and managers in the industry with a broader view of STEM disciplines: they will also provide additional incentives to attract more students to STEM disciplines. Efforts will also will be directed to recruit non-traditional and underrepresented students to the engineering physics degree program to full fill the diversity of the work force in the industry.

    Efficiency and Innovation:  

    There are as many as 30 students a year who come to NKU as pre-engineering students who wish to transfer to other engineering schools after 2 or 3 years to pursue engineering. The proposed engineering physics degree will give such students a pathway to pursue a career in engineering related field without transferring. Given the fact that the Northern Kentucky region houses many industries which will be future employers for such graduates, an engineering physics will be quite appealing to some of those pre-engineering students. Also, we have many non-traditional students (full-time working adults) to whom transferring may not be a viable option.

  • Program Quality and Student Success

  • The curriculum should be structured to meet the stated objectives and student learning outcomes of the program.

  • 1. List all student learning outcomes of the program.
    Student Learning out comes are in the file attached. Name of the file is Student Learning Outcomes.
    List all student learning outcomes for the program.
  • 2. Explain how the curriculum achieves the program-level student learning outcomes by describing the relationship between the overall curriculum or the major curricular components and the program objectives. *

    The engineering physics degree has two sets of objectives: one is program objectives to produce graduates who has the knowledge and skills to solve engineering problems and who will be able to meet regional work force demands (see the file Employer demand). The other objective is to meet student learning outcomes (see the file Student Learning Outcomes). Student learning outcomes are integrated to the degree program throughout the curriculum in the courses student has to take. Student learning outcomes are designed and measured such that the program objectives are met.

    The courses required for the degree will undergo rigorous assessment every semester as a requirement by NKU. While assessing course specific student learning out comes, the overarching program objectives also will be assessed. This process will lead to continuous improvement of the program. The program also will undergo review by external constituents such as the Industrial Advisory Board to assess how the graduates from this program will meet the work force needs of the region. Based on the feedback from the external reviewers the curriculum will be changed to meet program objectives. 

    Describe the relationship between the overall curriculum or the major curricular components and the program objectives.
  • 3. Highlight any distinctive qualities of this proposed program*

    There are several engineering physics degrees in the state of Kentucky. But the proposed program is the only engineering physics program in the Northern Kentucky region which offers a degree with tracks in both mechanical & manufacturing and electronics engineering technology. The nearest university which has a similar option is Murray State University which is about 320 miles  from NKU. Also, even though engineering physics degree is not equivalent to the engineering degree offered at UK or UL, the proposed program is the only 4-year degree in engineering field which is based on calculus and advanced mathematics courses such as differential equations in the northern Kentucky region. Also, the program  is based on multidisciplinary approach which will give the graduates great advantage in becoming effective in the work force as engineers to solve multidisciplinary and non-traditional problems.

     

  • 4. Will this program replace any existing program(s) or concentrations within an existing program?*
  • If yes, please specify.
  • 5. Include the projected faculty/ student in major ratio

    20-30.

  • 6. Is there a specialized accrediting agency related to this program?*
  • If yes, identify the agency
    EAC: Engineering Accreditation Commission
    EAC: Engineering Accreditation Commission

  • 7. Upload the SACS Faculty Roster Form in the Proposal Toolbox . Faculty resources shall be demonstrated to be adequate and appropriate for the proposed program. The number of faculty should meet external standards where appropriate. The qualifications of faculty will support the objectives and curriculum of the proposed program.

  • Attached
    Pull From Digital Measures

  • Access to the qualitative and quantitative library resources must be appropriate for the proposed program and should meet recognized standards for study at a particular level or in a particular field where such standards are available. Adequacy of electronic access, library facilities, and human resources to service the proposed program in terms of students and faculty will be considered.

  • 8.a. Describe the library resources available to support this program. You may attach any documentation provided to SACS*

    The department of physics, geology & engineering technology has a library liaison who work with faculty to order books that are needed for engineering physics students. The library has substantial set of books on physics and engineering technology.
    NKU Steely Library provides digital access to data bases that are essential for students to conduct effective literature reviews of research in the
    area of engineering physics.  In addition, the library utilizes interlibrary loan of sources that are not readily available in full text.

     

  • Describe the physical facilities and instructional equipment available to support this program. Physical facilities and instructional equipment must be adequate to support a high quality program. The proposal must address the availability of classroom, laboratory, and office space as well as any equipment needs.

  • 8.b. Describe the physical facilities and instructional equipment available to support this program*

    Physics program is housed in the Science Center of NKU. The physics program has 4 teaching labs which are fully equipped to teach all the physics courses included in the engineering physics program.

    Engineering Technology program is housed in the Business Center of NKU. Engineering Technology program has several labs which are fully equipped to teach all the engineering technology courses.  Support courses such as chemistry also has facilities in the Science Center to teach the courses required for the engineering physics degree.

  • 9. Clearly state the admission, retention, and completion standards designed to encourage high quality*
    Admission Requirements - Freshmen
    All freshman students offered admission to NKU will be placed in one of two categories: regular admission or admission with conditions.
    Regular Admission
    To be granted regular admission an applicant must meet the following three conditions:
    1. High school or equivalent completion as evidenced by:
    a. A diploma from an accredited high school with a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale.
    – OR –
    b. A general equivalency diploma (GED).
    – OR –
    c. Documented completion of an approved home school or distance learning high school program.
    2. Satisfactory standardized test performance as evidenced by:
    a. A minimum ACT composite score of 20 and minimum English, mathematics, and reading subject scores of 18.
    – OR –
    b. A minimum SAT composite score of 1020 (combined mathematics and critical reading scores) and minimum subject scores of 25 in writing, 23.5 in mathematics, and 25 in critical reading.
    – OR –
    c. A minimum COMPASS score of English 74 or higher, mathematics 36 or higher, and reading 85 or higher. (For applicants 21 years of age or older)
    – OR –
    d. A minimum ACCUPLACER score of writing 92 or higher or write placer 6 or higher for English; elementary algebra of 84 or higher AND a college level math score of 50 or higher for mathematics; and reading score of 96 or higher.  (For applicants 21 years of age or older)  
    3. Completion of the Kentucky Pre-College Curriculum (waived for applicants 21 years of age or older)
    Students are required to submit all required credentials to be considered for admission. NKU reserves the right to verify authenticity of all submitted educational credentials.
     
    Admission with Conditions
    Admission with conditions may be granted to a limited number of students who do not meet all criteria for regular admission.
    1. Conditionally admitted students are required to take placement test(s) and enroll in any required developmental courses during their first year.
    2. Students who are granted admission with two or more academic deficiencies are assigned to Norse Advising. Norse Advising advises students regarding their academic plan and refers students to appropriate support programs. The students may have a limited course load for their first semester. The limited course load and mandatory academic support may be continued if a student is not in good standing after his or her initial semester.
    3. Students admitted with conditions may not declare/change a major until all conditions are satisfied. Therefore, students in this category will not be admitted to the engineering physics degree program until all conditions are satisfied.
     
    Regular Admission - Transfer Students
    To be considered for regular admission, transfer applicants must have a 2.00 GPA. Students are required to submit all required credentials to be considered for admission. NKU reserves the right to verify authenticity of all submitted educational credentials.
    Admission with Conditions - Transfer Students
    Admission with conditions may be granted to a limited number of transfer students who do not meet all criteria for regular admission.
    1. Conditionally admitted students may be ineligible to declare a major.
    2. Students admitted with conditions may not declare/change a major until all conditions are satisfied.
    3. Conditionally admitted students may be limited to a 12-credit course load for their first semester.
     
    Hence, students transferred with conditions may not be able to declare engineering physics degree as a major.
     
     
    Retention standards for engineering physics degree:  70% retention rate
     
    Degree completion standards: The degree completion standards are described in detail in the section 10 below.
  • 10. Clearly state the degree completion requirements for the program*
    GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
    Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics.
     
    In order to receive a bachelor’s degree in engineering physics, a student must:
    1. Complete a minimum of 120 semester credit hours.
    2. Complete from NKU* at least 25 percent of the credits required for the degree.
    3. Complete the last 30 semester credit hours from NKU*. Limited exceptions are possible when approved by the dean (or designee) of the college where the student’s major is housed.
    4. Complete developmental coursework, if required.
    5. Complete the general education requirements for a bachelor’s degree.
    6. Complete at least 45 semester credit hours in courses numbered 300 and above. Note: Freshman- and sophomore-level courses completed at other institutions may have course titles or content similar to certain 300- and 400-level courses at NKU. The Office of Transfer Services, in consultation with the department chair where the equivalent NKU course is housed, will determine whether such courses will contribute to meeting NKU’s requirement for 45 credits in courses numbered 300 and above.
    7. Complete the requirements for the major (engineering physics degree): That includes, 
    a. 30 hours of supporting courses, 
    b. 31 hours of physics courses, 
    c. 21 hours of engineering technology core courses, 
    d. 12 hours of engineering technology courses for the chosen track (mechanical & manufacturing or electronics engineering technology).

     

    8. The requirements for a student’s major(s), minor(s), and focus area(s) must all be based on the same catalog. 
    9. Remove all incomplete grades by earning a grade of A through F in place of each one.
    10. Earn an overall GPA of at least 2.00 (excluding developmental coursework) and a GPA of 2.00 in each of the following: the major, and focus (unless the major or minor department has a higher GPA requirement).
    11. Satisfy all financial and administrative obligations to the university.

    *Note: For the purposes of the policies related to graduation and graduating with honors, approved courses taken through the Greater Cincinnati Collegiate Connection are treated as though they were taken from NKU.

    NOTE:  The Department of Physics and Geology requests that the BS in Engineering Physics be exempt from the secondary graduation requirement of a second major, a minor, or a Focus.  Justification to waive secondary requirement to have a minor or a focus:

    The engineering physics degree require 31 credit hours of physics and 33 hours of engineering technology. In addition, it requires 30 credit hours from support courses in chemistry, mathematics and computer programming. The total hours required for the major with all the above plus general education requirements add to 121 credit hours. If a minor or a focus area is added, the number of credit hours to graduate will be higher than 121 credit hours.  Since the major pulls from two related disciplines (physics and engineering technology)  as well as substantial material from other disciplines (mathematics and chemistry), the degree would be waived of a secondary requirement to have a minor or a focus.

     

  • 11. Provide the following information for the program and for each concentration (some categories may not apply to all programs):

  • Total number of hours required for degree (incuding General Education credits)*
    120
    120
  • Number of hours in degree program core*
    52
    52
  • Number of hours in concentration*
    12
    12
  • Number of hours in guided electives*
    30
    30
  • Number of hours in free electives*
    0
    0

  • 12. Describe how the proposed program will articulate with related programs in the state. It should describe the extent to which student transfer has been explored and coordinated with other institutions.

    Attach all draft articulation agreements related to this proposed program in the Proposal Toolbox .

  • Describe how the proposed program will articulate with related programs in the state*

    NKU engineering technology program has worked with community schools in Kentucky to establish path ways to the existing engineering technology degree programs: Electronics engineering technology degree and Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering technology degree.  Currently there are 4 pathways from Cincinnati State Community College (CSCC) and 2 from KCTCS. They are: for CSCC, Electronics Engineering Technology in pre-engineering to BS at NKU; Mechanical Engineering Technology – Design major (METD) to BS at NKU; Mechanical engineering technology -Manufacturing management option (METM) to BS at NKU; Mechanical engineering technology pre-engineering to BS at NKU. For KCTS, the associate degrees to Electronics engineering technology and Mechanical & Manufacturing Technology degrees at NKU.

    Currently, we are in the process of establishing a path way between the electro-mechanical program at Elizabeth Community & Technical College and the Mechatronics engineering technology degree at NKU.

    We will work with KCTCS to foam similar articulations to the engineering program we have proposed here. Since the engineering physics program demands more mathematical skills than the engineering technology degree, one has to be careful how to foam these articulations. Also, our ambition is to get the engineering physics degree to be ABET accredited when it graduates its first graduates in about 5 years. Therefore, one has to make sure that the pathways we create align with the expectations of ABET.
     

     

    It should describe the extent to which student transfer has been explored and coordinated with other institutions.

  • 13. List courses under the appropriate curricular headings, Then follow the directions below to create proposed curriculum in Proposal.  Click here to download the course template.

    Prospective Curriculum Field

    Step 1

    There are two options to add courses for proposed changes: "Add Course" and "Import Course." For courses that already are in the catalog, click on "Import Course" and find the courses needed. For new classes that are in the Curriculog Approval Process click on "Add Course"-- a box will open asking you for the Prefix, Course Number and Course Title.

    Step 2

    Click on  "View Curriculum Schema." Click on "Add Core" which will be the header for your course groups of the program. After creating the different sections you can proceed to assign courses in each header by clicking on "Add Courses" this will bring up the list of courses available from Step 1. Select the courses you wish to add and reorder as needed by dragging courses. For removing courses click on the .

    Commonly used headers: Degree Requirements, Core Courses, Electives.

  • Prospective Curriculum*
  • Attached*
  • 14. Will this program utilize alternative learning formats (e.g. distance learning, technology-enhanced instruction, evening/weekend classes, accelerated courses)? *
  • Delivery Method*
  • 14.a. Describe planned alternative methods of program delivery you checked, involving greater use of technology, distance education, and/or accelerated degree designs, to increase efficiency, better address student educational and workforce needs, and maximize student success, for both traditional and non-traditional students.

    The program will utilize following alternative methods of program delivery:


    Distance learning: Engineering Technology has several online courses. Students may opt to choose online delivery or face to face delivery in courses such as EGT 261 (Engineering Materials).

    Courses that combine various modes of interaction, such as face-to-face, videoconferencing, audio-conferencing, mail, telephone, fax, e-mail, interactive television, or World Wide Web:

    There are some courses that are offered face to face but utilize the Canvas to have course material. All the courses offered via WEB in engineering technology are  completely online where the course material will be uploaded to Canvas. There will be videos of instruction as well. There are no Hybrid (part face to face and part online) courses in engineering technology currently. Majority of courses are face to face since many of them has a lab component which has to be in class.

    Technology-enhanced instruction: Most of the courses in engineering technology does include laboratory work which utilize new technologies and computer software. Physics courses are taught in laboratories which has  modern technology. For example, PHY 220, 222, 224 which is the introduction to physics with calculus uses many labs with PASCO interface.


    Evening/weekend/early morning classes: Many of the engineering technology classes are offered in the afternoon or evening to  accommodate non-traditional students. may of the physics courses are offered in the morning or afternoon.


    Instruction at nontraditional locations, such as employer worksite: EGT  301, Cooperative Education in Engineering Technology,  is a coop course: students will be working in industry in the local region to gain experience in the work place. 

     

Demand
Next

  • Program Demand/Unnecessary Duplication

    Proposed programs must respond to the needs of the academy and to larger economic and social environments. Thus, the institution must demonstrate demand for the proposed program. All proposed programs must address student demand. Programs must also address either employer demand or academic disciplinary needs.

  • 1. Student Demand

  • a. Provide evidence of student demand. Evidence of student demand is typically in the form of surveys of potential students or enrollments in related programs at the institution, but other methods of gauging student demand are acceptable. *

    Please see the attached document (name of the file: Student Demand C.1)

    Typically in the form of surveys of potential students and/or enrollments in related programs at the institution.
  • b. Identify the applicant pool and how students will be reached. *

    Any student accepted to NKU (under regular admissions or regular transfer) could declare engineering physics as a major. There are no special requirements. The applicants will be reached by engineering career awareness evets such as Black and Gold event, Majors and Minors fair, Academic Sessions, engineering career day, summer academies, and high school visits. There is recruitment material, such as brochures that will be distributed. The department web page also has lot of information about the degree programs in the department.

     

  • c. Describe the student recruitment and selection process. *

    We adhere to the NKU admissions standards. Students admitted to NKU are divided into 2 categories: regular and admissions with conditions. For regular admissions, a student need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of Kentucky Pre-College Curriculum, and, satisfactory standardized test performance. A minimum ACT composite score of 20 and minimum English, mathematics, and reading subject scores of 18. Also, equivalently, a SAT composite score of 1020 (combined mathematics and critical reading scores) and minimum scores of 25 in writing, 23.5 in mathematics, and 25 in critical reading is sufficient for admissions to NKU.

    Students are recruited via  recruitment events described in section b.

  • d. Identify the primary feeders for the program.*

    High school students from the high schools in the Northern Kentucky region are the primary feeders for the program. In addition there will be transfer students from community schools and non-traditional students  who may be candidates for the program.

  • e. Provide any evidence of a projected net increase in total student enrollments to the campus as a result of the proposed program*

    As described in item 1.a, there is demand for engineering related degrees in the region. Some student who would have transferred to other schools to complete an engineering degree will choose to stay at NKU to complete the engineering physics degree. Also there will be new students added due to the new program. 

  • f. Project extimated demand for the first five years of the program.
  • Degrees Conferred
  • Degr Conferred Year 1
    0
    0
  • Degr Conferred Year 2
    0
    0
  • Degr Conferred Year 3
    0
    0
  • Degr Conferred Year 4
    1
    1
  • Degr Conferred Year 5
    3
    3
  • Majors (Headcount - Fall Semester
  • Major Headcount Fall Semester Year 1
    10
    10
  • Major Headcount Fall Semester Year 2
    18
    18
  • Major Headcount Fall Semester Year 3
    25
    25
  • Major Headcount Fall Semester Year 4
    31
    31
  • Major Headcount Fall Semester Year 5
    35
    35

  • 2. Employer Demand:

    Clearly describe evidence of employer demand. Such evidence may include employer surveys, current labor market analyses, and future human resources projections. Where appropriate, evidence should demonstrate employers’ preferences for graduates of the proposed program over persons having alternative existing credentials and employers’ willingness to pay higher salaries to graduates of the proposed program.

    Attach additional documentation in Proposal Toolbox.

    Data provided in tables should be uploaded in the proposal toolbox.

  • a. Describe the types of jobs available for graduates, average wages for these jobs, and the number of anticipated openings for each type of jobs. *

    Please see the attached file (name of the file: Jobs available for graduates and wages)

    For employer demand, a file is uploaded: name of the file is Employer Demand

  • 3.  Academic Disciplinary Needs:

    If the program proposal is in response to changes in academic disciplinary need, as opposed to employer demand, please outline those changes. Explain why these changes to the disciple necessitate development of a new program.

  • Clearly describe all evidence justifying a new program based on changes in the academic discipline or other academic reasons*

    The program was not proposed based on evidence of change in academic discipline. It was proposed to meet the work force demand in the region and the state.

     

  • 4. Similar Programs:

    A new program may serve the same potential student population. The proposed program must be sufficiently different from existing programs in the state or access to existing programs must be sufficiently limited to warrant initiation of a new program.

    Identify similar programs in other Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) states and in the nation.

    If similar programs exist in Kentucky,

  • a. Are there similar programs in other Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) states and in the nation? *
  • Please identify similar programs in other SREB states and in the nation.

    There are  large number of schools which has engineering physics as a degree in the nation. 10 of them are:

    1. University of Illinois

    2. Northwestern University

    3. Stanford University

    4. Illinois Institute of  Technology

    5. Purdue University

    6. Missouri University of Science and Technology

    7. Universiyt of Iowa

    8. University of Wisconsin, Madison

    9. Case Western Reserve University

    10. Ohio State University

     

  • b. Please identify any similar programs exist at public institutions in Kentucky.

    Please see the attached document with a table of a summary of the existing programs in engineering physics in Kentucky and nearby Ohio. Name of the file: similar programs in KY and OH.   

  • c. Does the proposed program differ from existing programs? *
    (i.e., students in a different geographic area)
  • If yes, please explain

    Please see the attached file, similar programs in Kentukcy and OH,  with a table of a summary of the existing programs in engineering physics in Kentucky and nearby Ohio.

    The proposed degree differs from most of the programs described above other than the one at Murray State University. The degree at Murray State has 2 tracks similar to the proposed degree. Miami University offers a minor in the given fields of engineering. Eastern Kentucky University and Xavier University has the emphasis on electronics engineering.  Most of them do not have a co-op experience as the proposed degree has.  Morehead State University has only one concentration.

  • d. Does the proposed program serve a different student population (i.e., students in a different geographic area) from existing programs?
  • If yes, please explain.

    The proposed degree is the only 4-year engineering physics degree in the Northern Kentucky area. The nearest one in  Kentucky is at Eastern Kentucky University which is 100 miles from NKU. The other nearest one on the Ohio side is at Xavier University. Miami University is 47 miles from NKU on the Ohio side. For both these schools the tuition will be out of state for Kentucky residents. Hence having an engineering physics degree on the Kentucky side serves the residents well. 

     

  • e. Is access to existing programs limited?*
  • If yes, please explain

    Most of the students at NKU are residents from the nearby Northern Kentucky region. If an engineering physics degree is offered here, then it will be easily accessible for them rather than to travel to other Kentucky Universities which are far.

     

  • f. Is there excess demand for existing similar programs?*
  • If yes, please explain

    Engineering graduates are in demand in the region.

     

  • g. Will there be collaboration between the proposed program and existing programs?*
  • If yes, please explain the collaborative arrangements with existing programs

    The department chair of the Physics, Geology & Engineering Technology at NKU, visited the Physics Department, Xavier University, Ohio to discuss their engineering physics program in October 2017.

    The department chair of the Physics, Geology & Engineering Technology at NKU had written communication with the chair of the Institute of Engineering, Murray State University, with regard to the engineering physics program they have: a course plan for the engineering physics was requested and was sent. 

  • If no, please explain why there is no proposed collaboration with existing programs
  • Advanced Practice Doctorates

  • If the proposed program is an advanced practice doctorate, please address the following 5 questions.  If not, skip to the COST/FUNDING section.

    For submission to CPE you will need to attach the following, additional documentation, in the Proposal Toolbox. 

    1. Letter of commitment from each clinical site that specifies the number of students to be accommodated and identifies other academic programs that also use the facilities.

    2. Letter from each institution with a similar program stating that the proposed program will not negatively impact the existing program.

  • 1. Does the curriculum include a clinical or experiential component?
  • If yes, list and discuss the natureand appropriateness of available clinical sites.
  • 2. Describe how the doctorate builds upon the reputation and resources of the existing master’s degree program in the field.

    N/A

  • 3. Explain the new practice or licensure requirements in the profession and/or requirements by specialized accrediting agencies that necessitate a new doctoral program.

    N/A

  • 4. Explain the impact of the proposed program on undergraduate education at the institution. Within the explanation, note specifically if new undergraduate courses in the field will be needed.
  • 5. Provide assurance that funding for the program will not impair funding of any existing program at any other public university.
COST/FUNDING
Next

  • The resource requirements and planned sources of funding of the proposed program must be detailed in order to assess the adequacy of the resources to support a quality program. This assessment is to ensure that the program will be efficient in its resource utilization and to assess the impact of this proposed program on the institution’s overall need for funds.

  • Will this program require additional resources?*
  • If yes, provide a brief summary of additional resources that will be needed to implement this program over the next five years
  • Will this program impact existing programs and/or organizational units within your institution?*
  • If yes, please describe the impact
  • Provide adequate documentation to demonstrate sufficient return on investment to the state to offset new costs and justify approval for the proposed program.

    The new program will utilize existing resources such as equipment, and faculty. Hence any increase in investment from the state due to the program will be offset by the tuition earned from the new students enrolled to this program.

  • Complete the Funding Sources, by year of program template and Breakdown of Budget Expenses/Requirements template tables for the first five years of the proposed program and provide an explanation of how the institution will sustain funding needs, attach document in Proposal Toolbox. *The total funding and expenses in the table should be the same, or explain sources(s) of additional funding for the proposed program.

    Links to the Funding Scource and Budget Expenses/Requirement Templates are:

    A.  Funding Source Template

    B.  Budget Expenses/Requiement Breakdown Template

  • Attached
  • Attached
PROGRAM REVIEW AND ASSESSMENT
Next

  • Describe program evaluation procedures for the proposed program. These procedures may include evaluation of courses and faculty by students, administrators, and departmental personnel as appropriate. Program review procedures shall include standards and guidelines for the assessment of student outcomes implied by the program objectives and consistent with the institutional mission.

    For each assessment method, please provide direct indicators of achievement of program-level student learning outcomes and frequency of data collection:

  • 1.a. Which components will be evaluated?*

    Student Learning Outcomes (SLO’s) given in the file, Student Learning Outcomes.

     

  • 1.b. When will the components be evaluated?*

    There are three engineering technology programs currently at NKU: two of them, mechanical and manufacturing, and electronics engineering technology degrees are ABET accredited. For the accreditation, the two programs undergo rigorous evaluation of student learning outcomes. Direct method is to assess all the courses students take which is done every semester via program assessment. Since students in engineering physics also will take engineering technology courses, the student learning outcomes will be assessed for all those courses.

    NKU requires on-going program assessment each semester for all programs. Hence the physics program and its upper level courses undergo rigorous assessment. Hence all the student learning out comes related to the advanced physics courses which is included in the proposed engineering degree will be assessed each semester. Assessment reports are completed by the program director of physics and are submitted to the University via a formal process.

  • 1.c. When will the data be collected?*

    There is an assessment rotation which gives which courses are evaluated in each semester. Also, the assessment rotation highlights which SLO is evaluated in that particular semester. The evaluation process will take place in Fall and Spring semester and in summer.

     

  • 1.d. How will the data be collected?*

    Data will be collected by instructors and will be sent to the program director electronically.

     

  • 1.e. What will be the benchmarks and/or targets to be achieved?*

    Since the B.S. in Engineering Physics degree consists of physics and engineering technology courses,  targets for the two disciplines are specified as follows:

    Targets for physics courses:

    Considering a normal grade distribution and talking a “C” to be at proficiency and a “B” to be above proficiency, we would then formulate targets of 68% at proficiency and 16% to be above proficiency, giving a total of 84% at or above proficiency.  

     

    Targets for engineering technology courses:

    Engneering technology courses will target 75% of students performing at or over expected level of the SLO's in engineering technology courses.

  • 1.f. What individuals or groups will be responsible for data collection?*
    Instructors of each course
    Instructors of each course
  • 1.g. How will the data and findings be shared with faculty?*
    In discipline meetings the findings will be shared with faculty.
    In discipline meetings the findings will be shared with faculty.
  • 1.h. How will the data be used for making programmatic improvements?*

    Data will be utilized to identify the deficiencies of the program and make adjustments.

  • 2. What are the measures of teaching effectiveness?*

    Teaching effectiveness will be evaluated by the department chair during the annual performance evaluations. Measures of teaching effectiveness include but not limited to, student evaluations of the courses, self-reflection by the faculty on teaching, course material, syllabus, exams, quizzes, peer-reviews etc.

  • 3. What efforts to improve teaching effectiveness will be pursued based on these measures?*

    Faculty are assigned mentoring if necessary;  faculty are guided to attend teaching workshops at NKU; there will be follow up meetings to see the improvements

  • 4. What are the plans to evaluate students’ post-graduate success?*

    The engineering physics program will have an advisory board. It will have alumni of the program. The advisory board meets annually to discuss the alumni success. Feedback from alumni will give us an understanding how alumni are doing after graduation. There will be alumni surveys given for employers and graduate schools to evaluate the success of the graduates.

     

VPUAA Processes
Next
  • CIP Code
    14.1201
    14.1201
  • BOR Approval Date
    March 20, 2019
    March 20, 2019
  • CPE Final Approval Date
    April 26, 2019
    April 26, 2019
  • CPE ID
    14685
    14685

  • User Tracking

    Help: Show Original: This option displays the proposal as it appeared at launch. No markup will be visible on the form. There will be no differentiation between fields that contain imported content and content that was created or selected by the originator by hand.

    Help: Show Current: This option displays the proposal as it appears currently. No markup will be visible on the form. There will be no differentiation between fields that contain imported content and content that was created or selected by the originator by hand.

    Help: Show Current with Markup: This option displays the proposal with all of its current content marked to show different editors. Text fields that include imported content are indicated by a blue highlight, and may also include additional changes within, indicated by each editor’s unique color. Fields containing selects, checkboxes, radio buttons, or widgets (such as the curriculum) provide an activity log above the field, indicating each editor’s selection and unique color.

    Comments

    You have not saved your changes to all the assessment fields you edited. You have the following options:

    • Click "Save All Changes" now to save every change you made
    • Click "Abandon Changes" to destroy all unsaved changes
    • Click "Cancel" to continue working on assessments and save each field individually

    What would you like to do?

      You must be logged in, in order to approve.

      Please upload the form that you just printed and signed.

      This will be used as your signature to sign this proposal upon approval.


      Listed below are the symbols and colors utilized in Curriculum:

      • = has not made a decision
      • = approved
      • = rejected
      • = held
      • = suspended
      • = cancelled
      • = multiple decisions
      • = task
      • = mine
      • = stuck
      • = urgent, out of date import source
      x

      #{title}

      #{text}

      x
      warning

      #{title}

      #{text}

      x
      warning

      #{title}

      #{text}