Records of the School of Engineering

The School of Engineering began in 1888 as the Trade and Mechanical Department. Courses in the first two decades included plumbing, boat and ship building, shop work, woodwork, bricklaying, steam, and others related to the technical aspects of programs arts programs, such as drafting for architecture. The department was renamed Department of Mechanic Arts (1890-1892), then the Department of Science and Technology (1892-190), the School of Science and Technology (1909-1946), and eventually the School of Engineering.

In 1909, the department became the School of Science and Technology and began awarding certificates for 2 and 3 year programs in 1910. During the First World War, the school was active in training merchant marine engineers and electrical engineers, as well as activities involving the nearby Brooklyn Navy Yard. By 1920, though possibly before, the school offered evening courses in addition to its day courses.

The School of Science and Technology, alongside the other schools of Pratt Institute, began awarding baccalaureate degrees in 1938. In 1939, the Engineers’ Council for Professional Development (ECPD) accredited the electrical and mechanical engineering departments. In 1950, the chemical engineering department was accredited by the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and in 1957 the school awarded its first graduate degree. Also in the 1950s, the campus constructed several new buildings in the engineering quad for courses in the school.

The school experienced major changes in the 1960s, beginning with the change to the School of Engineering. During this time, the curriculum was enlarged greatly; in 1961, the first computer classes were offered. In 1965, the school established the Computer Center and began offering computer science degrees in 1966. Also in 1966, the ECPD reaccredited the electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering departments, but not the department of industrial engineering.

Perhaps one of the most impactful changes in the school was the introduction of the co-operative education program in 1963-64. The program paired students with companies for 5 year programs where they could study at Pratt and work onsite for the company. This program grew out of a successful cooperative program with the Navy at the Brooklyn Navy Yard that began in 1956. The program continued until at least 1975.

By 1991 enrollment in the school, now the School of Engineering, decreased and the institute in general was struggling financially. The Board of Trustees considered its options regarding the School of Engineering, which included among other options: moving the program offsite, transferring the program to another school, or shutting the school down entirely. The Trustees eventually decided to close the School of Engineering, making 1992-93 its last academic year.