Revolutionize the Methods of Engineering
Build upon Northwestern Engineering’s existing research strengths to define the methods and tools that engineers of tomorrow will need to know and use.
Cover Story
Envisioning Engineering’s Future
Dean Christopher Schuh and faculty leaders have spent the last year mapping out Northwestern Engineering’s future in research and education. The school’s new strategic vision offers a glimpse of what is to come.
Imagine McCormick’s future. What will it look like?
Over the past academic year, Northwestern Engineering leadership—including Dean Christopher Schuh, the school’s nine department faculty chairs, and senior administrative leaders—have worked to answer this deceptively simple prompt.
Through months of planning meetings and collaborative discussions that engaged the entire faculty, the team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the school’s strengths and anticipated growth areas in research and education, collaboration with key partners, and leadership thrusts connected to the University’s own priorities.
“I wanted us not only to think about how we can continuously improve the things we do well, but also to consider what we don’t do all the time—once-in-a-generation ideas and goals—that can carry us into the future together,” Schuh says.
In late spring, the school formalized its guiding strategic vision, one poised to embrace the fast-changing nature of the engineering field and usher in a period of redefinition and growth. The plan focuses on three strategic pillars that are key to pushing engineering into the next era.
Transform Engineering Education
Pair these engineering methods with a curriculum steeped in innovation, design, and entrepreneurial thinking to prepare the next generation of engineers.
Advance the Critical Applications of Engineering
Apply engineering methods and a whole-brain mindset to positively impact the biggest challenges facing the world today—and tomorrow.
Northwestern Engineering’s priorities dovetail the school’s future growth with four of the University's six research and innovation priorities over the next seven years:
- Advance the biosciences
- Lead in decarbonization, renewable energy, and sustainability
- Foster interdisciplinary innovation among social sciences and global studies
- Harness the power of data analytics and artificial intelligence
- Enhance the creative and performing arts
- Deliver an outstanding educational experience for undergraduate and graduate students
Explore the University’s research and innovation priorities >