USC Upstate has launched a new industrial engineering program, addressing a growing demand for engineers in the region while providing students an opportunity to study and gain industry experience close to home, according to a college news release.
The program features a comprehensive curriculum blending theoretical knowledge with practical application and is designed to meet Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology compliance standards, the release stated. Full certification will be achieved once the first cohort graduates, the release stated.
“Offering an engineering program has been a goal of mine since I started at Upstate, and I am excited about welcoming our first students next year,” Chancellor Bennie Harris said in the release. “As an engineer myself, I know how valuable it is to develop career-ready skills while earning your degree. This program will ensure our students gain the knowledge and training that are critical to success in the field.”
Informed by feedback from local industry leaders and students, the program aligns strategically with regional needs, focusing on community-based projects such as infrastructure development, sustainable energy solutions, and environmental conservation, the release stated. Partnerships with local businesses will provide students with internships and employment opportunities, preparing them to be workforce-ready upon graduation.
Designed with a “lab in industry” approach, the program offers students hands-on experience in real-world settings, utilizing industry-grade equipment and processes, the release stated. This practical focus enhances learning and helps students connect with potential employers early in their academic journey.
“We are proud to announce USC Upstate‘s new engineering program, offering students a top-tier option right here in their community,” Don Bent, USC Upstate executive-in-residence and former chief operating officer at Oshkosh Defense, said in the release. “With strong support from over a dozen local leading industry partners, this program is designed to provide a high-quality, affordable pathway to a career in engineering. Our goal is to reach every student, parent, and counselor to ensure they know this opportunity is now available close to home. It’s a transformative moment for USC Upstate and the Upstate region.”
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Jeannie Chapman, dean of the College of Science and Technology at USC Upstate, emphasized the program’s importance in fulfilling the university’s mission to serve the community and meet industry demands.
“The decision to introduce this program was driven by both student demand and the urgent need for engineers in our region,” Chapman said in the release. “We are eager to see the positive impact our students and faculty will have through this initiative.”
The announcement of the new industrial engineering program took place on Dec. 2 at USC Upstate during an event that brought together local industry leaders.
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