Dean's Report

As I reflect on my first five years as Dean of the University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science, I am inspired by the remarkable strides our college has made, fueled by the dedication and passion of our students, faculty, and staff. This report highlights the CEAS journey through our student achievements, innovative research, and transformative partnerships, setting us on a path toward a new era of innovation and impact marked by experiential learning and knowledge creation. 

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to preparing the next generation of engineers and computer scientists. We are equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, support, and experiences necessary to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions. Our top-five, nationally ranked cooperative education (co-op) program is our crown jewel of the student experience. Co-op integrates classroom learning with professional work experience, providing valuable benefits to our students (with over 4,500 annual placements) and to their employers (593 unique companies).  

Our focus on research and innovation is clear through our record growth in annual research funding, with a 200% increase since 2019. Our faculty and student researchers are making significant strides in our groundbreaking labs, centers, and institutes, impacting everything from the helmets protecting our youth athletes to the future of hypersonic flight. 

Our success is deeply rooted in the strength of our community partnerships. Collaborations with alumni, industry leaders, academic colleagues, government agencies, and the surrounding community, serve to support educational opportunities, research breakthroughs, and workforce development. With new and strengthened partnerships, we are innovating solutions to critical global problems. 

Looking ahead, we will use our past successes to fuel our bold plans for the future. By integrating cutting-edge research, new state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, real-world problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking into the core of our curricula, we strive to become a national leader in engineering and computing education and research. 

We remain dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment for all of our students, faculty, and staff, as we continue to build strong partnerships with the community. Thank you for being an integral part of CEAS. Together, we're not just shaping the future of engineering education but driving positive change in society.

John W. Weidner, PhD
Dean

Explore each of the three sections of the Dean's Report by clicking the headlines below.

At the College of Engineering and Applied Science, research is more than discovery — it’s about impact. Our dedication to tackling global challenges has led to a 200% increase in research funding since 2019, emphasizing our goal to make a tangible societal impact through transformative work. Our success is driven by talented graduate student researchers collaborating with faculty to advance knowledge and develop solutions. They enhance AI trustworthiness, improve health outcomes, reduce carbon emissions, and innovate infrastructure for safer roads and vehicles. Engaging with industry, government, and the community, our vibrant research ecosystem fosters collaboration and drives meaningful global progress.

At the College of Engineering and Applied Science, student success is central to our mission. Our education equips students with skills, experiences, and support for academic and professional excellence. Our top-ranked co-op program integrates classroom learning with real-world experience, offering graduates a competitive edge. We support the whole student through dedicated advising, including mental health counseling and academic and co-op advisors, fostering a culture of belonging. With early research opportunities, entrepreneurial focus, international partnerships, and engineering-specific student organizations, CEAS scholars can craft unique paths to become leaders in engineering and applied science.

The College of Engineering and Applied Science is committed to partnerships that drive innovation, enhance education, and uplift communities. Collaborating with industry, schools, government, and donors, the college creates transformative opportunities for students and addresses societal challenges. Partnerships with leading companies shape technology and workforce development through semiconductor training, AI advancements, and simulation centers, equipping students with cutting-edge skills. Donors and alumni support scholarships, research, and educational initiatives, empowering student success. These collaborations reinforce the college's vital role in the region's economic, educational, and technological growth.