A brief history of the undergraduate acoustical engineering programs at the University of Hartford.

Abstract

Located in West Hartford, CT, the University of Hartford’s undergraduate mechanical engineering program has had required coursework in acoustics and vibrations for over 40 years. The evolution of two undergraduate degree programs with a focus in acoustics will be discussed: (1) the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) with Acoustics Concentration and (2) the interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE), Acoustical Engineering & Music, which requires acceptance into the University’s music conservatory, The Hartt School. The programs provide both theoretical instruction on the concept of acoustics and vibrations as an inherent element of engineering design, and the benefits of applied, sponsored full-semester design projects. The program has evolved to incorporate real-world projects during the sophomore (second) year of the 4-year program, in addition to the well-established design project coursework during senior (fourth) year. A description of the acoustic and vibration facilities and equipment used by our students will be given, in addition to the results of a recent ABET accreditation visit.