The role of IEEE in engineering accreditation

One of the most significant activities which the IEEE conducts in the area of education is accreditation. In addition, this activity is of critical importance to a significant portion of the members of the Education Society. Within the United States, IEEE is a participating body of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), which has been designated by the US Government as the entity for accrediting programs in engineering and technology. As the world moves toward a global economy and engineering talent flows among countries throughout the world, the need for cooperation in accreditation will increase. As a worldwide organization, the IEEE is strategically positioned to play a vital and central role in engineering accreditation on an international scale. The author examines the IEEE's position within the US accreditation structure, the worldwide environment for accreditation, the international issues which are currently being addressed, and finally some potential future directions.<>