Engineering

Engineering is a highly technical and diverse career field that plays an integral role in many facets of today’s workforce. Engineers are in high demand as advancements in technology continue to rely on the principles of science, technology, engineering and math.

OBU’s distinguished program features state-of-the art lab spaces and world-class faculty who prioritizes the value of hands-on learning. This emphasis, combined with extensive engineering theory and a distinctive Christian liberal arts education, prepares you for a successful and rewarding future.

Alexander Shuman

Class of 2027

“I am very excited that OBU is opening an engineering program as it gives me the opportunity to learn about engineering practices from a Godly perspective.”

Engineering Concentrations

You may select from three engineering degree programs at OBU.

Electrical Engineering

In this highly specialized area of engineering, you will discover concepts that will equip you to meet industry’s demands.  As a student, you will explore topics such as the areas of circuit design, microchip fabrication, embedded control systems, electromagnetic applications and remote monitoring. Deeper study will include the elements of electrical circuits, electromagnetism, control systems, digital signal processing, electrical power, data communication and microprocessors with personal instruction and hands-on training from world-class faculty holding PhD distinction.

Mechanical Engineering

OBU’s mechanical engineering is taught in the context of the aerospace industry. However, graduates can work in any industry. As a student in mechanical engineering, you will study topics such as heat transfer, strength of materials, additive manufacturing, vibrations, fluid mechanics and robotic systems with personal instruction and hands-on training from world-class faculty holding PhD distinction.

Systems Engineering

The systems engineering program will equip you to design and coordinate complex projects and processes. You will study topics such as systems design, systems modeling and simulation, systems validation and aerospace tools. Systems engineers in the aerospace industry work with mechanical engineering and electrical engineers, to ensure that all equipment and systems are working in harmony which includes both the hardware and the software. They look at the big picture to ensure all elements of a given system are properly integrated.

Benefits of OBU’s Engineering Program

Hands on Training and Application

In addition to exceptional instruction in engineering theory, a major objective of our program is an emphasis on application of the specific theory taught. Our goal is for you to be well-grounded in concepts and to be able to confidently apply what you are learning in situations on the field through hands-on experience. You will learn to use appropriate equations and formulas to critically assess the results.

Excellent Job Market

As careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) are on the rise, the need for highly trained engineers continues to grow. In the state of Oklahoma, there is a significant lack of engineers in the aerospace workforce. OBU is collaborating with key industry partners related to the aerospace industry. OBU’s engineering program is dedicated to producing graduates who can meet this need in our state and nation.  Studies show that engineering is the 2nd highest growing career field with a 10.2% rate of growth from now through 2031.

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Scholarship and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) emphasis

Our university hosts an OBU STEM Day, annually showcasing the many majors on campus that incorporate STEM skills. Students and faculty provide live demonstrations and instruction in various labs and classrooms using diverse equipment for the benefit of all who attend.

As a supporter of STEM careers, OBU has entered an agreement with Project Lead the Way to begin the fall semester of 2024. Through this agreement, OBU will offer an annual $1,000 scholarship to students who have completed at least two PLTW courses during their high school years. This applies to PLTW students who enroll in any area of study at OBU.

Industry Partners

As a way of supporting the Oklahoma workforce and to offer lucrative, meaningful jobs to our engineering graduates, OBU is partnering with key industrial and state leaders to formulate opportunities for student internships, capstone opportunities, partnerships and jobs. Collaborative relationships with Tinker Air Force Base, Boeing, Kratos and United Dynamics and Oklahoma Career Tech play an instrumental role in the success of our program. These industry partnerships are a win-win situation for our students and the Oklahoma industry and economy alike.

Impact of Professors

Dr. Charles E. Baukal, Jr. serves as director of the OBU engineering program. He provides the program with extensive leadership and expertise and over 40 years of industrial work experience. Our entire scope of STEM professors who teach engineering, math and science curriculum, as well as our host of liberal arts professors, are all world-class scholars. You will receive individualized instruction in a personal setting that fosters true mentorship.

Integration of Faith

The engineering program is taught from a Christian worldview. It is Christ-centered and scientifically sound. It seeks truth through the integration of faith and knowledge, thereby cultivating a deep appreciation and sense of responsibility for creation. OBU professors serve as personal mentors, supporting both your intellectual and spiritual development, and instill a solid foundation of faith and biblical perspective through their instruction and personal lives.

Equipment

The OBU engineering program features state-of-the art lab spaces, a metal shop, a wood shop, wind tunnel, two 3D printer labs, classrooms and associated lab equipment. The facility allows you to learn in diverse and flexible learning environments that adapt to each specific learning discipline.

Job Opportunities and Outcomes

Electrical engineering affords you the opportunity to design and test electrical systems for aircraft, automobiles, industrial control systems and many other applications. Electrical engineers work on projects such as the circuits required to control the engine output for an aircraft, the advanced controls in automobiles including electric vehicles, advanced power generation, among many others. Electrical engineers are in high demand in a range of industries.

Engineering Advisory Board

A strong engineering advisory board has been assembled to give advice and feedback to the program. It includes large and small companies, public and private companies, government and education institutions, engineers and non-engineers, and OBU alumni.

Our Mission

Industry needs engineers with integrity, critical-thinking skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset to play transformative roles in a diverse global marketplace. It is the mission of OBU’s Division of Engineering to meet this demand by preparing students within a Christian liberal arts framework where faith and common sense are integrated with high academic standards throughout the learning process. All degrees will use aerospace as the context in which students are equipped.

Program Options

Bachelor of Science (BS)

World-Class Faculty

OBU faculty are experts in their fields and will be with you every step of the way.

Dr. Contessa Edgar

Chair, Division of Science
Associate Professor of Biology

Dr. Chuck Baukal

Associate Professor of Engineering
Director of Engineering Program

James E. Hurley School of Science and Mathematics

Become a Future Shaper

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