Cornerstone University Introduces Engineering Program in Collaboration With Grand Valley State University
Cornerstone University today announced the launch of a new academic program as part of the university’s growing emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
In a unique collaboration with Grand Valley State University, Cornerstone is introducing an engineering major with strands in environmental engineering, design and innovation engineering, engineering management and data science. The programs will enroll students as early as Fall 2017. The addition marks the first time Cornerstone University has offered engineering degrees.
“At Cornerstone we are committed to offering our students relevant and academically excellent programs,” said Dr. Joseph M. Stowell, president of Cornerstone University. “Our desire is to contribute to the flourishing of science-related enterprises in West Michigan and beyond by graduating highly competent students who influence their career fields with the virtues of Christ. Expanding our programs to include engineering is a giant step forward in contributing to this outcome.”
Engineering jobs in West Michigan have grown nearly 29% since 2010, eclipsing national trends (7.7% growth) and increasing the number of high-skill, high-wage jobs in the region. By collaborating with GVSU, Cornerstone is uniquely positioned to provide students with a Christ-centered foundational basis and access to top-tier engineering educational technology. This partnership will allow students to study alongside Cornerstone and Grand Valley professors who will expertly educate them in curriculum programs for creativity, design and innovation as well as help develop excellent critical thinking skills—a must in the engineering field.
“We want to provide our students with market-sensitive academic programs that fit the traditional job industries as well as those that are quickly expanding,” said Dr. Shawn Newhouse, Cornerstone’s vice president for traditional undergraduate academics. “It’s important for Cornerstone to be flexible and relevant in its degree offerings.”
GVSU President Thomas Haas said the agreement addresses the need for more engineers.
“This unique partnership between public and private universities will provide the opportunity for students to develop particular engineering skill sets that are needed in West Michigan and the region,” said Haas. “Grand Valley is pleased to work with Cornerstone to ensure the success of our students—our future engineers.”
Stowell said this collaboration is a perfect example of the types of higher education partnerships that will become increasingly important in the future.
“By sharing support and resources, students at both universities will have opportunities for greater success,” he said. “We will enjoy having Grand Valley students on our campus.”
About Cornerstone University
Cornerstone University is a Christ-centered university with a passion for global influence through the transforming power of the gospel. As an interdenominational institution located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Cornerstone offers traditional undergraduate programs as well as adult undergraduate and graduate programs through the Professional & Graduate Studies division, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and Asia Biblical Theological Seminary.
In addition, Cornerstone also produces the multifaceted broadcast outreach of 91.3 WCSG.
About Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University, one of the 100 largest universities in the nation, attracts more than 25,000 students with high-quality programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Grand Valley is a comprehensive university serving students from all 83 Michigan counties and dozens of other states and foreign countries. Grand Valley offers 88 undergraduate and 38 graduate degree programs from campuses in Allendale, Grand Rapids and Holland, and from centers in Muskegon, Traverse City and Detroit. The university is dedicated to individual student achievement, going beyond the traditional classroom experience, with research opportunities and business partnerships.
