Getting ABET accreditation right the first time

Abstract

This paper describes the authors' experiences in securing ABET accreditation for a new Computer Engineering and Systems (CES) program. Though some programs at the university had received joint accreditation in conjunction with similar programs at the main campus, the CES program was the first program to receive national accreditation on its own. How we dealt with the challenges we faced, and the lessons we learned in the process are discussed in detail in this paper. Those seeking first-time program accreditation should take advantage of preparation workshops given by ABET and professional societies. Early in the preparation cycle they need to identify the criteria that are applicable to the accreditation being sought. It is never too early to start preparing for accreditation. Every program must have clearly defined and documented objectives; ABET requires that program constituencies be involved in setting objectives. When objectives are in place, ABET student outcomes need to be mapped to individual courses. Next, assignments are identified that can be used to evaluate the achievement of the outcomes. For many programs specific program criteria need to be satisfied in addition to the general engineering criteria. For example, engineering programs that contain the modifier "computer" in the title must demonstrate that graduates have a knowledge of discrete mathematics. Having an assessment plan in place and being able to show documentation that demonstrates that it has been followed is the next step. That includes having a documented advising system in place for the current students and a tracking mechanism for graduates. Student transcripts sent to ABET need to be checked prior to any accreditation visit and clear explanations atypical situations must be documented. Preparation for the visit should include educating the faculty, staff and administrators on the roles they will play. It is particularly important to help faculty from service units, who are not familiar with the ABET accreditation process. Students need to understand the importance of their role in the process too. Facilities need to be checked prior to the visit with any safety concerns or accessibility issues properly addressed. An advisory board should be established well before starting an accreditation process. Their participation in all stages of the accreditation process, including in the evaluation visit, is highly recommended. Under the current budget shortages across the universities, it is important show that there are solid plans for maintaining the laboratories current and for providing the junior faculty with adequate develop opportunities. Our final observation is that it is much easier to succeed when all involved in accreditation work together as a team. The effort involved in preparing for an ABET visit is far too great for just one or two individuals. Active participation of the entire team is important to achieving the goal of accreditation. © 2012 American Society for Engineering Education.