Last fall, Bemidji State University’s programs in industrial technology, applied engineering and technology management received accreditation from the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

Bemidji State’s bachelor of science degree in industrial technology was reaccredited, while the university’s bachelor of applied science programs in applied engineering and technology management were accredited for the first time.

Accreditation was completed in three phases, beginning with a self-study during the 2011-12 academic year and culminating with an accreditation hearing in November of 2012.

“ATMAE accreditation represents an endorsement of the three degree programs by a national organization of peers in the fields of industrial technology, technology management and applied engineering,” Dr. Jim McCracken, professor and chair of Bemidji State’s Department of Technology, Art and Design, said. “It recognizes that the programs operate with standards of quality and continuous improvement in regards to content and instructional delivery both now and for the future. Most importantly, students who graduate from these three programs are able to reference program accreditation with potential employers.”

Bemidji State’s industrial technology program has a long history at the university dating back to the 1960s, and was first accredited by the association in 2007.

The bachelor of applied science programs have shorter histories at BSU. The technology management program was established in the 1980s, and the applied engineering program began in 2004. These programs are both articulated degree programs, requiring students to transfer in an associate’s degree or diploma credits from a two-year college.

The association only recently began accrediting articulated programs, according to McCracken, which led to the opportunity for BSU to pursue accreditation for these programs.

The bachelor of applied science programs are available on campus and can also be completed 100% online.

“Distance learners currently comprise over 80 percent of our bachelor of applied science programs and include students from all over the United States and Canada,” McCracken said. “Graduates from the three programs are hired in a wide variety of technology, management and applied engineering positions in the fields of communications, construction, energy, transportation and manufacturing.”

About ATMAE
Founded in 1967, the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering is recognized as the premiere professional association responsible for: the promotion of technology in business, industry, education, and government; the accreditation of technology programs in colleges, universities, and technical institutes; and the certification of technologists and the recognition of their continued professional development. Industrial technology and engineering technology prepares technical- and management-oriented professionals for employment in business, industry, education and government. Industrial and engineering technology is involved with the management, operation and maintenance of complex technological systems. ATMAE accreditation ensures that the accredited institution has met a series of standards to provide industry with highly competent employees and assures the graduate of an ATMAE accredited program that they are receiving a marketable degree through relevant curricula. Institutions that earn ATMAE accreditation confirm their commitment to quality and continuous improvement through a rigorous and comprehensive review process.

For more information, contact the Department of Technological Studies, Visual Art and Design, (218) 755-2950.

LINKS
• Department of Technological Studies, Visual Art and Design
• ATMAE