The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering has reached a significant milestone this spring, graduating 49 students with 50 engineering degrees. This marks the largest graduating class of Florida A&M University (FAMU) engineering students since the turn of the millennium, signaling a remarkable resurgence in the program’s popularity and success.
The achievement is not merely a one-time event but the result of sustained efforts to enhance recruitment, academic support, and student success. University leaders attribute this growth to a comprehensive strategy that has been implemented over the past five years.
The Growth of Engineering Enrollment
Over the last five years, undergraduate enrollment in the engineering program has surged by 66 percent. This impressive growth can be attributed to expanded recruiting efforts and the introduction of new resources designed to support student success. Dean Suvranu De emphasized that “Our enrollment has grown, our support infrastructure has matured, and our faculty have deepened their investment in student success.”
The college has made significant investments in scholarships, peer tutoring, and Engineering Living Learning Communities. These communities provide students with immediate access to support networks from the moment they arrive on campus. The impact of these initiatives is evident, with 85 percent of first-time graduates participating in Engineering Student Access programs aimed at improving student success.
Student Experiences and Success Stories
Mariah Johnson, a recent FAMU engineering graduate, shared her experience, stating, “Engineering… I was like, ‘Whoa, this is a lot different than what I’d ever experienced before.’ But the programs I was in helped me build that foundation and gave me that support system to continue and be able to graduate.” Johnson’s sentiments reflect the broader student experience, where the college’s support systems have played a crucial role in helping students navigate the challenges of an engineering degree.
Johnson also noted the continuous growth within the engineering program, saying, “Throughout the four years, I was able to see the continuous growth within engineering, and when we got to graduation and saw that many people graduate, it made me feel prideful and hopeful.” This sense of pride and hope is shared by university leaders who see this milestone as just the beginning of a broader initiative to expand opportunities for future engineers.
Meeting the Demand for Skilled Workers
University leaders hope that this year’s milestone is just the start of a continuing trend. They aim to expand opportunities for future engineers while addressing the growing demand for skilled workers across Florida. The college’s strategic investments in recruiting, academic support, and student success are designed to create an environment where more students can complete one of the university’s most challenging degree programs.
The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is not only celebrating its largest graduating class in over 25 years but also setting the stage for future growth and success. As the demand for skilled engineers continues to rise, the college’s commitment to student success and continuous improvement positions it as a leader in engineering education.
