A literature review of the different approaches that have been implemented to increase retention in engineering programs across the United States

Final Paper pdf 163KB

Engineering programs in the United States are faced with the challenging problem of decreased retention rates at the undergraduate level. This paper presents an exhaustive literature review that summarizes the attempts made by several different universities across the United States to increase retention in engineering programs. A common theme between different approaches is developed and presented in a clear and concise manner. The main purpose of this paper is to provide engineering faculty members and administrators that are attempting to increase retention in their programs with a resource that will provide them with a general background idea of the strategies that have already been attempted, enabling them to make informed decisions while attempting to increase retention in their programs.

Author(s):

Niranjan Desai    
Department of Mechanical and Civil Engineering
Purdue University Northwest
United States

George Stefanek    
Computer Information Technology and Graphics
Purdue University Northwest
United States