To the Editor:
We write regarding the article on the civil engineering track ("Civil engineering track to be discontinued," Oct. 12). The article misstates that "the track itself will be gone by next year." In fact, civil engineering will continue as a standalone accredited concentration option for all students currently enrolled at Brown. For students entering with the class of 2017 and beyond, there will be a new structural mechanics track within mechanical engineering that will accommodate students with interest in structural engineering.
In this track as it is proposed to the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, students will be able to complete almost the same set of courses used now for the current civil structures track, although there will be more flexibility in course selection. Among the options available for students interested in engineering and the environment is the existing ABET-accredited chemical/biochemical engineering track and its program options in energy production and conversion and environmental issues and pollution prevention.
In any event, it is important to note that the School of Engineering is fully committed to providing an absolutely outstanding accredited program in civil engineering to all students currently enrolled at Brown.
Larry Larson and Janet Blume
Dean of the School of Engineering and
Associate Dean of the Faculty
