UVSC computer courses accredited

OREM — Computer courses at Utah Valley State College have been upgraded.

UVSC's computer-science courses received certification from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, an organization that scrutinizes U.S. colleges and universities to make sure computer classes are demanding enough to produce a well-trained work force in the technological field.

The thumbs-up accreditation decision by the board came after rigorous on-site examinations and more than 600 pages of documentation. The Orem school took the first steps toward accreditation in 1998.

Only schools with demanding courses gain accreditation. Top-tier schools such as Harvard and Stanford also seek approval from the accrediting body.

"This accreditation is the highest form of accreditation that you can get, so that puts us in a pretty elite group," said Tom McFarland, dean of the college's School of Computer Sciences and Engineering. "It means for students that the degree they get here for computer science will rank very well when they apply for employment. Without that accreditation, students are kind of on their own to prove themselves."

UVSC won approval on its first attempt.

"Every year there are some schools that fail," said Gordon Stokes, an associate dean.

Of the more than 800 computer-science programs in the United States, 168 programs are accredited through the ABET. In Utah, Brigham Young University and Utah State University also are ABET-approved.

UVSC's computer-science program has grown over the years. Students now in the program must take two semesters of calculus and physics, which weren't required in the past. A new computer science building was built after the Utah Legislature allocated funds for its construction.

McFarland said in 2001, members of ABET's accreditation committee visited the UVSC campus to speak with students and faculty, examine the program and analyze campus facilities such as libraries and laboratories. An initial report found the program was lacking in some areas.

Professors looked at the problem areas and worked to improve them. A legislative initiative that same year for computer science, engineering and technology programs funded additional laboratory facilities.

"With a new building, exceptional laboratory facilities, an expanded faculty and a great curriculum, we were able to apply for accreditation," Stokes said.

McFarland said the accreditation requires a renewal every year and the college's program could undergo on-site evaluations every six years to ensure quality.

"I'm just proud," McFarland said. "This sort of thing helps people realize we have some great academic talent here in Utah, so this is just one more example of that. . . . In talking to students in the last weeks since this was announced, when they learn the details, they're really pleased. They've been really tickled."

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