About the College of Science and Engineering (COSE)

Purpose

The purpose of the Houston Christian University College of Science and Engineering is to build engineers and scientists for tomorrow who employ biblical principles for solving problems, discover truth in the created world, and serve God and man.

Vision

The vision of the College of Science and Engineering at HCU is to be the best in the world at integrating fundamental principles of science, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with historic Christian values and standards to serve God and mankind (Faith). This uniquely positions HCU as a preparer of ethical and highly qualified talent for the workforce, the community and the world.

Mission

The mission of the College is to develop scientists and engineers who will utilize God-given resources and talents to serve humanity by solving scientific and technical challenges efficiently and effectively. The College will prepare students in a nurturing, Christian environment for careers and further education to serve the Lord Jesus Christ and humanity by making the world healthier, more productive and more secure. Graduates will be able to solve problems and communicate solutions effectively.

Distinctives of STEM at HCU

Christian Principles and Foundation

COSE strives to be the best in the world at integrating fundamental principles of science, engineering and mathematics with historic Christian values and to empower its students with the tools and skills they need to serve both God and mankind.  The Christian mission of the HCU COSE is important to the faculty and administration, and to the students. It is also important to the healthcare industry, allied health professions, information security, and other executives who need  ethical, consistent and principled professionals.

Curricular Threads

Curricular threads in engineering and computer science programs include Cloud Computing (storage, access, security), Cyber security, Mobility (wireless networks, mobile devices, Internet of Things), Data Analytics (Big Data, Machine Learning), and Project Management.

Professional Experience Office

In conjunction with Title V (2019-2024), the College offers specialized advising for students planning to continue their education by attending medical, dental, optometry, pharmacy, physician assistant, physician assistant, or graduate school. Our advising/mentoring is open to all HCU students interested in medical or health professions careers. Available resources include membership and participation in the appropriate pre-professional student organization and trips to pre-professional schools. Health professions workshops and professional development seminars are offered by the Professional Experience Office.

Industry Engagement

Many industrial partners and individuals support the College by providing learning and work experiences (e.g. internships), assisting with lab development, sponsoring projects, providing guest and adjunct instructors, employing interns and graduates, and advising on curriculum design and improvement.

Project-based Learning

Engineering and computer science students learn to address cyber-related issues (e.g., security, Internet of things, embedded systems, software protection, network defense) from the beginning of the freshman year. The first-year curriculum utilizes a versatile hardware platform (mobile electronics and computing kit) to provide students with hands-on projects in an immersive learning environment.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Students in all programs are encouraged to work with faculty at HCU and with collaborators at regional medical schools and universities to design and conduct experiments leading to new discoveries and results.

Engineering-based Cyber Programs

The programs at HCU provide the only cyber-focused BS degrees in the Houston metro area.

History of the College

In 1973, the Bachelor of Science degree first became available to students at Houston Christian University. The College of Science and Health Professions was established to administer science-related degrees. The nursing and health programs were separated in 1991, creating the College of Science and Mathematics and the Linda Dunham School of Nursing.

Houston Christian University recognized the growing need for engineers and information specialists who understand how to incorporate complex, state-of-the-art technologies in the systems that they design, implement and secure. To meet the need for Houston’s energy, computing/software/information, maritime, manufacturing, healthcare, financial and aerospace industries, HCU established a College of Engineering in the fall of 2018 to offer Bachelor of Science degrees in Cyber Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

To leverage synergies and collaboration between science and engineering programs, the College of Science and Engineering was established in 2019 from the merger of these two Colleges. The primary purpose of this change has been to enhance the learning environment of our students and to position us to be on the leading edge of science and engineering education. We have created an environment in which there are strong interdisciplinary interactions between faculty in engineering, mathematics and the sciences. These faculty members work together seeking areas for enhancement in curricula, assessment, research, learning, advising, and the many other processes that impact the quality of the educational experience. With a new interdisciplinary organization, these interactions occur naturally, and collaborations are paving the way for powerful transformations.

Strategic Plan

To support the progression of the purpose, vision, and mission of the College of Science and Engineering, a strategic plan was developed for implementation through years 2020-2025.  Designed to Build Engineers and Scientists for Tomorrow, the COSE Strategic Plan employs five key priorities (student success, faith integration, meaningful growth, inspirational partnerships, and innovation).  View the entire College of Science and Engineering Strategic Plan.