A burgeoning demand for computer technologists has spurred the expansion of the School of Technology's electrical engineering technology program. The bachelor's degree now has two areas of emphasis: the existing program in power and industrial control, and the new one in computer engineering technology.

The computer focus begins this fall. So far 16 new and transfer students are enrolled. Leaders at the school expect the new technical emphasis to increase the enrollment in electrical engineering technology by approximately 50 percent, from 80 to 120.

Assistant Professor Nasser Alaraje, the chair of electrical engineering technology, says the new four-year specialization is "an excellent focus area." He says the addition is based primarily on two factors: the US Department of Labor's report that the job outlook for computer engineering technology graduates is favorable; and support for the program by the school's Industrial Advisory Board.

As with all technology programs, the new focus will produce technologists who have the advantage of a laboratory-intensive curriculum that emphasizes practical application, including initiatives in design and implementation.

Dean Scott Amos says the new focus area "bolsters the stature of the school while it serves the needs of industry and students."

The School of Technology, with an enrollment of about 540 students, is one of only three in Michigan with a BS in Electrical Engineering Technology program that is accredited by Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (TAC/ABET).