School of Engineering records

The College of Engineering first opened in September of 1910 with Brother Adam Hofmann as its head. The college initially offered courses in chemical and electrical engineering and graduated its first seniors in 1914. It has expanded over the last century to include undergraduate degrees in chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, engineering mechanics, and electrical and computer engineering. The graduate school offers programs in aerospace engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, civil and environmental and engineering mechanics, electrical engineering, electro-optics, engineering management and systems , materials engineering , mechanical engineering, and renewable and clean energy.

According to a 1938 letter from the religious community to an un-named religious leader, the College of Engineering did not receive the desired accreditation from the Engineers’ Council for Professional Development, and the University seriously considered reducing the program and growing the College of Arts and Sciences. However, they presented a case for the continuation of the programs, including suggested improvements. In 1940 the College of Engineering was recognized by the Licensing Board of Professional Engineering in Ohio, and in 1952 it received accreditation from the Engineers’ Council for Professional Development.

The college offered a variety of courses throughout the 1900s that reflected the evolving technologies and industries, specifically those of the Dayton area. In 1960 the college initiated a graduate program, adding a doctoral program in 1973.

There is some discrepancy with regards to dates. In "A History of the University of Dayton" (1937), William O. Wehrle states that the establishment of the department was announced in 1910 with courses in chemical, electrical, mechanical and civil engineering, although only the Chemical and Electrical Departments offered courses in 1911. According to Wehrle, courses began in mechanical engineering in 1916 and in civil engineering in 1919. According to Wehrle, in 1915 the first engineering degree conferred was in Chemical Engineering. However, this account contradicts the 1910-1911 St. Mary’s Institute Bulletin and 1910 College of Engineering catalog that list classes beginning in September 1910. Students were also listed in the engineering roster for the 1910-1911 school year. The Register of Students for 1910-11 lists the first engineering students, and "Hallowed Memories," a chronological history of the University, notes the first engineering graduates in 1914.