UMES Engineering - What should I know?

Hey, y'all. I've been researching the engineering programs at several different universities and right now, I'm curious about UMES (University of Maryland Eastern Shore). Can anyone give me a lowdown on their programs? Specifically, I'm interested in the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities, and the overall reputation. Thanks in advance!

University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) has a Department of Engineering and Aviation Sciences that offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree.

The program is built around a foundation of mathematics, physics, and chemistry to solve real-world problems. There are three concentrations to choose from - Aviation Science, Computer Engineering and Electronics Engineering Technology.

In terms of strengths, there are a couple of points to consider. UMES offers small class sizes, which allows for more one-on-one interaction with faculty. Here, you're seen as an individual and not just a number. This can be beneficial in terms of receiving more personalized attention and guidance throughout your academic journey. The university also provides lots of hands-on learning opportunities with practical applications, which can be a significant benefit in learning and understanding complex engineering concepts.

UMES engineering students have opportunities for internships, co-op positions, and are often recruited by local industries. Companies such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and NASA regularly come to campus for recruitment. This not only provides students with valuable experiences but also builds relationships that can lead to job opportunities after graduation.

However, not all is rosy about the program. A potential weakness might be the relatively limited engineering specialization options compared to larger universities. If you have a specific area of interest not covered by the three concentrations, you may not find exactly what you're looking for at UMES.

Also, UMES doesn't carry the same level of prestige associated with some of the public universities in Maryland, like University of Maryland, College Park, especially within engineering discipline. This doesn't mean that the quality of education is deficient, but the 'brand recognition' might not be as strong, which could be a factor when it comes to competitive job applications.

In sum, UMES's engineering program can provide a strong and practical education, particularly if you're interested in their offered specializations and appreciate close student-faculty interaction. However, it's still essential to consider whether the university's offerings align with your specific career goals and expectations.