The University of Akron (UA) has long been a trailblazer in higher education, earning accolades at state, national and global levels for its distinct academic programs and research contributions. That energy comes from passionate students and expert faculty dedicated to their success, and bettering our world. It also helps that many of UA’s programs are the first or only of their kind, because UA is a university of opportunity for students.
Global Pioneers in Emergency Management
Imagine being part of the world’s first accredited bachelor’s program in emergency management and homeland security (EMHS). At UA, students gain cutting-edge knowledge in a field that has become vital in today’s interconnected world. Co-developed with FEMA more than 20 years ago, this program equips students with the skills to navigate crises, making them indispensable in safeguarding communities. Notably, it remains the only accredited EMHS program among public universities in Ohio.
Cybersecurity Trailblazers
With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, UA launched Ohio’s first public university degree in cybersecurity in 2017. But UA didn’t stop there — it also became one of the nation’s earliest adopters of undergraduate courses in applied cryptography, teaching students the art of code-making and breaking. To enhance the experience, the R.C. Musson and Katherine M. Musson simulation lab, a one-of-a-kind facility in Ohio, allows students to simulate and counter cyberattacks. UA’s role as a regional programming center for Ohio’s Cyber Range Institute under-scores its leadership in preparing tech professionals for high- stakes environments.
Forensic Edge on Criminal Intelligence Analysis
For crimesolvers at heart, UA offers Ohio’s first and only bachelor’s degree in criminal intelligence analysis. Recognized as one of the top 25 intelligence analysis degrees nationwide, the program combines academics with hands-on experience. Students train in crime analysis labs using the same tools as professional investigators, bringing them one step closer to solving the mysteries of tomorrow.
Polymer Science Powerhouse
Polymers may sound technical, but their everyday applications — from medical devices to sustainable materials — are transformative. UA made history as the first public university in Ohio to launch a Bachelor of Science in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. Starting in 2022, this program has attracted students worldwide, eager to make an impact in industries that shape modern life. This program complements the graduate programs, which are ranked as top in the nation.
Aerospace systems engineering degree helps launch careers
Outside of the U.S. Air Force Academy, UA is the only institution in the U.S. that offers a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. The curriculum focuses on designing and building vehicles that fly, including rockets, satellites and planes. Students participate in a mandatory co-op program, which gives them industry experience and earnings up to $45,000. while they are enrolled. Graduates have a 99% employment or graduate school placement rate. Alumni work at companies such as SpaceX, NASA, Lockheed Martin, Collins Aerospace and PCC Airfoils. The program was created approximately 15 years ago to expand the pool of qualified scientists, engineers and managers for the aerospace industry, which is particularly strong in Northeast Ohio.
E.J. Thomas ceiling helps raise University's profile
The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall may be the most unique building on the UA campus — because it’s believed to be one of a few of its kind in the nation.
The Hall is home to the Witzman Counterweights system that raises and lowers the ceiling inside the performance space. The facility, which has three tiers, seats nearly 3,000 at its greatest capacity. It’s transformed into a more intimate venue for around 750 when the ceiling is at its lowest level. The process takes about 15 minutes.
The 27 chrome counterweights, which weigh a combined 47 tons, hang in the Hall’s Goodrich Lobby, making for a stunning sight for visitors. Counterweights are common in performance spaces to raise and lower scenery and curtains, but E.J.’s ceiling system is unique.
The Hall was recognized upon the occasion of its opening in 1973 by a New York Times architecture critic, who called it “a splendid performing arts center, synthesizing all that has gone before it.”