Historical Perspective on Applied Science and Engineering: A Dichotomy in Education

The decline in capability of young aerospace engineers from U.S. schools has been suggested as a major contributor to a reduction of U.S. competitiveness. It is believed this decline stems from the typical undergraduate aerospace program currently offered in this country. The emphasis in most engineering curricula has shifted from systems design and synthesis to theoretical analysis. The growth of this emphasis, almost to the exclusion of design considerations, is perceived as an over-reaction to modern scientific successes. The influence accrediting and professional organizations have exerted on the nature of the present engineering educational system is also discussed.