Dr. Michel Dahlin, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Colorado, stated that although the electrical engineering degree program overlaps the computer engineering degree curriculum, UCCS believes that students desire a Computer Engineering degree. She added that if the program is approved and the demand is low, the Regents would discontinue the programs. She stated that by utilizing the same courses the proposed degree programs are cost-effective and the B.S. degree would provide a pipeline into the M.S. allowing students to continue their professional studies. The Commission requested elaboration on the demand for courses versus the demand for graduate degrees. Dr. Dahlin explained that employers seek employees with skills.
Students know they are more employable with a degree.
She said most engineering students at UCCS are degree-seeking students. She distributed letters of support for the programs from the Colorado Springs business community. Pat Byrne, General Manager of Hewlett Packard, speaking in support of the degree proposals, stated that Hewlett Packard is a major employer in Colorado Springs. Currently, five percent of employed engineers leave the field every year. The company counts on universities to increase the supply of engineers.