Joining the existing concentrations of mechanical engineering and electrical engineering are civil engineering and computer engineering.
Union University has added two new concentrations to its engineering degree program. Beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, students can now choose a concentration in civil engineering or computer engineering, in addition to the existing concentration options of mechanical engineering and electrical engineering. The new concentrations have been added thanks to the opening of the university’s new Ethos Forum, designed to create collaborative opportunities between the Department of Engineering, the Department of Computer Science, and the McAfee School of Business, all of which are housed in the new building.
According to an article on Union University’s website, Fred Johnson, who serves as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, explained how the new building paved the way for the additional concentrations. He is quoted as saying, “Each of these new engineering pathways is designed to prepare Union students to serve in the world as prepared professionals, in ways that are currently in demand. What’s more, we’re launching at this perfect moment in Union University’s life, where the programs will have a home in our newest campus building. These new concentrations add even more opportunities for departments to work together, which is exactly what this space was designed to support. The great new building will benefit the program and its students every day, but the best thing students will find inside is our faithful Christian faculty and their commitment to preparing capable, well-rounded engineers in the context of Union’s rich tradition of Christian liberal arts education.”
Civil engineering and computer engineering are both concentrations that are in high demand, both from the student population and from the local workforce. Civil engineering involves the design and construction of the structures that are integral to society, like bridges, roadways, and community buildings. Computer engineering focuses on digital infrastructure, a growing need in today’s technology-driven society.
Jeannette Russ, who serves as the chair of the engineering department, noted, “Our vision for the department has always been to add more concentrations. We just had to wait until the time was right, and we feel like that time is right now.”
Russ added that the new concentrations will play into an important aspect of a Union University education. She said, “We want our students to have a heart for missions, and we want them to see that what they do in engineering can impact the world for Christ as well as making life better for the people they serve.”
For more information about Union University, visit the school’s website.