Retrospective Analysis of the Effect of an Online Bridging Course Sequence on Student Success in Chemical Engineering Graduate Studies

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18260/2-1-370.660-135099

Abstract

The outcomes of students who completed a ChE graduate bridging course sequence were compared against a group of students with ad hoc preparation. Bridging course students were found to have a modestly higher rate of graduate degree conferral and slightly lower graduate GPAs (though the GPA effect size was found to be small to medium) compared to ad hoc student preparation. Preparing students for ChE graduate school using bridging courses requires less time and monetary investment for students with similar outcomes.

Author Biographies

Aaron G. Frye, North Carolina State University

Aaron G. Frye is a PhD student in chemical engineering at NC State. After receiving his BS Chemical Engineering from NC State in 2012, he worked as a process engineer at ExxonMobil specializing in crude distillation and energy efficiency. He returned to NC State in 2021 to pursue a PhD in Chemical Engineering where his research interests include catalyst development for sustainable chemical production, process technology scale-up and effective teaching.

Matthew E. Cooper, North Carolina State University

Matthew E. Cooper is an Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State. After receiving a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Ohio University, he served as a researcher at RTI International before joining the NC State faculty in 2011. Dr. Cooper’s research interests include effective teaching, process safety decision-making skills, and best practices for online education.

Lisa G. Bullard, North Carolina State University

Lisa G. Bullard is an Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at NC State. A faculty member since 2000, Dr. Bullard has won numerous awards for both teaching and advising.  Dr. Bullard’s research interests lie in the area of teaching and advising effectiveness, academic integrity, chemical engineering instruction, and organizational culture.

Published

2024-08-29

Issue

Section

Manuscripts