History

Engineering Roots at Valpo

Valpo’s engineering legacy began in 1873 with civil engineering and saw its first female graduates in 1915. Full four-year programs launched in 1920, with post–WWII degrees in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. In 1968, the College moved to the Gellersen Center, a modern facility designed for faculty offices, classrooms, and labs. Milestones include the founding of Tau Beta Pi (1963), cooperative education (1983), and its first co-op graduates (1986).

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College of Engineering

Early Foundations

As early as 1873, civil engineering was taught at Valparaiso University. Sisters Ethel and Merle McCall were the first women engineering graduates, each receiving civil engineering degrees in 1915. Full four-year programs were established in 1920, with offerings in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. During World War II, with the shortage of male students, the program was temporarily reduced to two years at Valparaiso University followed by two years at Purdue University.

College of Engineering

Growth and Recognition

Four-year engineering programs returned after WWII, led by student initiative. Degrees in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering resumed in 1951. Tau Beta Pi’s Indiana Delta Chapter was founded in 1963.
In 1968, the College moved into the Gellersen Engineering and Mathematics Center. The co-op program began in 1983, with its first graduates in 1986.

Contact and Help

Engineering students, faculty, and staff may contact the Engineering IT Specialist for help with any technology issues. In the case that staff are not immediately available, please contact the IT Help Desk.

College of Engineering

219.464.5678

helpdesk@valpo.edu

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