When someone makes a choice on which college or university to attend, they factor in several considerations and focus a good deal of attention on how the school they choose will help them succeed overall.
Officials with the University of Detroit Mercy always have this in mind.
In addition to being named one of the top 50 schools in the country and No. 2 in Michigan, the school has recently opened new doors that gives students increased access to real-world projects that will help shape their futures.
University of Detroit Mercy’s College of Engineering & Science was recently awarded $2 million from the National Science Foundation. UDM is part of a consortium that includes four other institutions, with each receiving $400,000 over three years. The goal of this important funding is to enhance partnerships with industry.
“This grant will better enable Detroit Mercy faculty and students to engage with industry-sponsored projects,” said Rick Hill, associate dean for research and external initiatives for UDM’s College of Engineering & Science. “Working on such projects provides our students the kind of experiential learning that is core to a Detroit Mercy engineering education, while also benefiting our faculty by keeping their skills current and helping them gain a better understanding of the needs of our industrial partners which they can then bring back to the classroom.”
The hands-on experience not only enhances students’ skills but also prepares them for successful careers in rapidly evolving fields.
The focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, product innovation and robotics will equip students with the latest knowledge and skills in high-demand areas. Additionally, the grant opens doors for interdisciplinary collaboration, which will benefit students from pure sciences, health professions, business and computer information systems.
Through collaboration with consortium partners, UDM aims to leverage shared strengths and experiences to create a richer learning environment. The grant also paves the way for building new industry partnerships, which will further enhance the educational landscape for students.
“Engineering at Detroit Mercy has a long history of industry engagement; an example of this is the cooperative internships required of our students,” Hill said. “We plan to use this award to build on those relationships to expand the amount of industry-sponsored research conducted at the University.”
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