A strategy for resolving the conflict between rapidly emerging technologies and slowly changing curricula

The strategy proposed would require the reduction of the amount of technical specialization in undergraduate engineering curricula. The foreclosure of narrow technical specialties beyond basics would leave fewer majors programs at the BS level in larger engineering schools and perhaps would lead smaller schools to offer only a basic single degree in engineering. The slots gained in the curricular by reducing the number of technical specialties would be available for additions in communications, engineering economy, public policy, design, and management. These additions would strengthen the foundation necessary for maturing professionals to transfer specialties in order to keep abreast of emerging technologies and economic changes. Undergraduate curricula enhancements and complementary requirements for structured life-long-learning packages (continuing education) are projected and discussed on the basis of feedback from successes and problem which midcareer and older graduates have encountered in the work place. It is thought such an approach will help graduates shift specialties in accordance with the requirements of employers