Texas Woman’s University has moved forward with plans to launch its inaugural engineering program after the System Board of Regents approved the proposal on Aug. 14.
The board authorized the creation of a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, with the goal of opening classes in fall 2027. The university stated that the program aims to address workforce shortages in a high-growth sector where women remain significantly underrepresented. Industry data indicates that women make up just 16% of professional engineers nationwide.
Angela Bauer, the university’s executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, highlighted the strategic value of the new degree. She noted that employers are actively recruiting women engineers and that Texas Woman’s is positioned in a region with strong industry connections. Bauer described the institution’s woman-focused learning environment as a unique opportunity within the state.
Bauer explained that mechanical engineering was selected as the initial offering due to high worker demand and student interest. The university collaborated with consultants to design a curriculum featuring three distinct components: AI literacy integrated throughout the coursework, leadership training alongside technical skills, and immediate hands-on laboratory work starting on the first day of instruction.
Most engineering programs require students to complete two years of math and science prerequisites before engaging in practical projects, Bauer said. The new approach places students in labs during their first semester to encourage retention and ensure graduates are comfortable with practical application.
