Page 152 - Educating the Engineer of 2020: Adapting Engineering Education to the New Century

Educating the Engineer of 2020: Adapting Engineering Education to the New Century
http://www.nap.edu/catalog/11338.html

International Recognition of
Engineering Degrees, Programs, and

Accreditation Systems

Kevin Sweeney
Miami University

As economic globalization increases, we must bring down artificial
barriers that limit workforce mobility. One way to increase mobility is
through the mutual recognition of degrees, degree programs, and ac-
creditation systems. Some places—Europe, for example—have a strong
desire to work towards global harmonization, and, given the expansion
of the European Union (EU) and its need for workforce mobility, re-
gional harmonization as well. This has provoked a great deal of activity,
especially in countries that do not have recognized accreditation sys-
tems in place, or even a tradition of accreditation, such as Germany.
The United States, which has a strong tradition of engineering accredi-
tation, is also working toward global recognition of accreditation meth-
ods. Mutual recognition and accreditation will not only benefit gradu-
ates in a particular country, but will also promote quality control and
attract students to national degree programs.
It is generally accepted that a competent practicing engineer must
have the following qualifications:

• a strong education that teaches analytical and theoretical think-
ing that enables problem solving, innovation, and invention
• training in working with people from diverse backgrounds and
solving technical problems
• work experience, including responsibility for making decisions

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