PCEC News
GVSU Featured by Study International as a Leading U.S. University for Engineering & Computing
April 12, 2021
Study International highlighted Grand Valley State University as a leader in offering engineering and computing programs for students looking to make a difference in the world. Here's what they had to say about the GVSU Padnos College of Engineering & Computing:
"Hands-on. Practical. Industry-focused. 100% guarantee of experiential learning during studies. Nearly 100% employment upon graduation. 8,000 alumni with work experience in high-demand fields. These descriptors define an education at the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Seymour and Esther Padnos College of Engineering & Computing (PCEC).
PCEC offers the following programmes in rapid-growth STEM fields: Computing & Information Systems (several undergraduate and graduate disciplines such as applied computer science, cybersecurity, and information technology), Engineering (several undergraduate and graduate disciplines such as biomedical engineering, computer engineering, and product design & manufacturing engineering); Occupational Safety & Health Management (undergraduate only) and Professional Science Master’s Programmes (several graduate disciplines such as applied statistics, data science & analytics, and health informatics & bioinformatics).
Each programme prepares students to become highly successful professionals in their field upon graduation. How? By beginning project-based learning in students’ first year. Students gain valuable work experience through industry internships or co-op placements, in which they collaborate with professionals to solve real industry problems and engage in applied research and development.
Internships or co-ops are required components of all PCEC programmes — all are paid, offset the cost of tuition (which is modest, and set at the same rate as domestic students at the graduate level), and often lead to job offers upon graduation.
GVSU faculty are known for their passion for teaching and commitment to student success. Small class sizes taught by dedicated full-time faculty members — with expertise and industry experience — provide personalized attention and opportunities for close collaboration. PCEC undergraduate and graduate students have 24/7 access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a wide variety of project spaces, laboratories, and equipment.
GVSU is an internationally-friendly institution, ranking sixth nationally in its category for the number of students who studied abroad in 2018-19, according to the Institute of International Education. To ensure international students’ success, the GVSU Padnos International Center assists with a diverse range of issues, from finding a community on campus to obtaining OPT. As all PCEC programmes are STEM-designated, international students can qualify for up to three years of work experience in the US after graduation.
GVSU is based in Grand Rapids — a vibrant city on the US west coast of Michigan; ranked first in “7 Places to Go in 2020” by Jetsetter for its diverse dining options, arts and music, outdoor activities, festivals, and sports. Grand Rapids is home to more than 130 international companies, including several corporate headquarters, and is ranked first in job growth by Headlight Data, offering many potential employment opportunities for graduates of PCEC programmes. Residents of Grand Rapids experience all of the culture and entertainment of a big city with the added benefit of affordability when compared to other US cities such as New York, Chicago, or San Francisco.
Visit the PCEC website to learn more about high-impact programmes in computing, engineering, occupational safety & health, and the professional sciences. Competitive and limited Graduate Assistantships are available to highly-qualified applicants."