McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science

Overview

The McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science, commonly referred to as McCormick, is the engineering school of Northwestern University located in Evanston, Illinois. Established in 1909, the school has evolved into a prominent institution for engineering education and research. McCormick is known for its interdisciplinary approach, integrating engineering with other fields such as medicine, business, and the arts. This approach is reflected in its diverse range of programs and research initiatives that address complex global challenges.

History

The McCormick School of Engineering was founded as the College of Engineering in 1909. It was later renamed in honor of Robert R. McCormick, a prominent Chicago publisher and philanthropist, following a significant endowment in 1989. The school has a rich history of innovation and has been at the forefront of engineering education, adapting to technological advancements and societal needs over the decades.

Academic Programs

McCormick offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various engineering disciplines. These include but are not limited to:

**Biomedical Engineering**: This program integrates engineering principles with biological sciences to develop technologies and systems that improve healthcare.

**Chemical and Biological Engineering**: Focused on the transformation of raw materials into valuable products, this program emphasizes sustainable processes and technologies.

**Civil and Environmental Engineering**: This discipline addresses the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental impact.

**Computer Science**: Offering both theoretical and practical knowledge, the program covers areas such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, and software development.

**Electrical and Computer Engineering**: This program explores the design and application of electrical systems and computer technologies.

**Industrial Engineering and Management Sciences**: Focused on optimizing complex processes and systems, this program combines engineering principles with management practices.

**Materials Science and Engineering**: This field studies the properties and applications of materials, with an emphasis on developing new materials for technological advancements.

**Mechanical Engineering**: Covering the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, this program is fundamental to various industries.

Research and Innovation

McCormick is renowned for its research initiatives that span multiple disciplines. The school hosts several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Quantum Devices, the Segal Design Institute, and the Institute for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern. These centers foster collaboration among faculty, students, and industry partners to drive innovation in areas such as quantum computing, sustainable energy, and human-centered design.

The school's research is supported by substantial funding from federal agencies, private industry, and philanthropic organizations. McCormick's faculty are leaders in their fields, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements.

Interdisciplinary Approach

A hallmark of McCormick's educational philosophy is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. The school encourages students to engage with other disciplines through dual-degree programs, minors, and collaborative projects. This approach is exemplified by the Engineering First Program, which integrates design thinking and communication skills into the engineering curriculum.

McCormick also collaborates with other schools within Northwestern University, such as the Kellogg School of Management and the Feinberg School of Medicine, to offer joint programs that prepare students for careers at the intersection of engineering and other fields.

Facilities and Resources

The McCormick School of Engineering is housed in state-of-the-art facilities that support both education and research. Key buildings include the Ford Motor Company Engineering Design Center, which provides space for design and prototyping, and the Technological Institute, one of the largest academic buildings in the world, offering extensive laboratory and classroom space.

The school also offers access to advanced computational resources, including high-performance computing clusters and specialized software, enabling students and researchers to tackle complex engineering problems.

Student Life and Organizations

McCormick students are actively involved in a variety of student organizations and extracurricular activities. These include professional societies such as the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, as well as design and competition teams like the Formula SAE and the Solar Car Team. These organizations provide opportunities for leadership development, networking, and hands-on experience in engineering projects.

Global Engagement

The McCormick School of Engineering emphasizes global engagement through study abroad programs, international research collaborations, and partnerships with institutions worldwide. Students have the opportunity to participate in global engineering projects, gaining valuable cross-cultural experience and understanding of international engineering practices.

Notable Alumni

McCormick has produced numerous distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to engineering and technology. These include Robert Langer, a pioneer in biotechnology and drug delivery systems, and Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway and founder of FIRST Robotics.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, the McCormick School of Engineering is committed to advancing its mission of education, research, and innovation. The school aims to expand its interdisciplinary programs, enhance its research capabilities, and foster a diverse and inclusive community. By addressing emerging challenges in technology and society, McCormick seeks to prepare the next generation of engineers to lead in a rapidly changing world.