UCF’s College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) again ranks among the top graduate programs in the nation in Hispanic Business Magazine’ s 2009 Best Schools for Hispanics report.
This is the fifth consecutive year for CECS, which is now ranked sixth nationally — up from 10th in 2008.
The ranking isn’t just about numbers. It’s determined by factors such as active recruitment, retention and program quality. “We are extremely pleased to be ranked as one of the top engineering schools for Hispanics alongside Georgia Tech, Purdue, Cornell and MIT,” said Interim Dean Marwan Simaan.
Support from UCF faculty, and outreach programs, encourage Hispanics to study engineering. Associate Professor Eduardo Divo actively recruits high school students and encourages students to get involved in professional engineering activities, conferences and competitions. He is also the faculty adviser for UCF’s chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.
“Our college is committed to welcoming students of all backgrounds. It is especially gratifying to be recognized for five years in a row for welcoming and meeting the needs of talented Hispanic students,” said the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Charles Reilly.
The Hispanic Business Magazine’ s 2009 Best Schools for Hispanics report feature the top ten schools in the field of medicine, law, business, and engineering. The rankings are based on questionnaires sent in by the schools, reporting on enrollment, percentage of Hispanic faculty, the number of programs that recruit Hispanic students retention rates, and student services.