Skip to main content
NC State Home
College of Engineering
ISE Development
A red wax seal featuring 'ABET' rests on a crisp sheet of paper, symbolizing authenticity.

Student Outcomes

ABET Student Outcomes: problem solving, design, communication, ethics, teamwork, experimentation and lifelong learning in engineering.

Last Updated: 02/23/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

  1. An ability to identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics
  2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors
  3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
  4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts
  5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives
  6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
  7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Draft: December 1, 2000
Last Revised: January 7, 2022

I Want to Continue to the Faculty Survey Results

Why Student Outcomes are Important

ABET Student Outcomes matter because they define the skills students need to succeed as engineers. First, they give programs clear goals for teaching and learning. Faculty design courses to build strong skills in problem solving, design and data analysis. As a result, students gain practical tools for real engineering work.

In addition, the outcomes stress communication, teamwork and ethical responsibility. Engineers often work in groups and must explain ideas clearly. Therefore, programs teach students to collaborate and consider social and environmental impacts. Students also learn to make responsible professional decisions.

Moreover, ABET requires programs to assess and improve their results. Faculty review student performance and update courses when needed. Consequently, programs stay current with new technology and industry needs.

Finally, ABET accreditation shows that a program meets national quality standards. Employers, students and the public can trust accredited programs to prepare graduates for professional practice and lifelong learning.