YSU’s new doctoral program will boost research reputation

By coming to the Mahoning Valley to announce Youngstown State University’s first doctoral degree program, Ohio’s chancellor of higher education, Eric Fingerhut, let it be known that the college’s urban research designation isn’t just window dressing. In fact, the Ph.D. in material science and engineering is guaranteed to attract world-class faculty, highly motivated students with a passion for research and businesses that recognize the practical applications of the novel ceramic, metallic and electronic materials.

It is noteworthy that the first Ph.D. degree will be in a discipline that is part of the long-range plan for higher education in Ohio developed by Fingerhut and the Ohio Board of Regents at the urging of Gov. Ted Strickland. The governor made it clear early on in his tenure that he wanted Ohio to be a major player in the highly competitive global technology arena, and for that to happen the state’s higher education system had to be revamped.

Thus, the University System of Ohio was created with the goal of making it a significant driver of the state’s economy. As a result, the state’s 12 public universities and colleges all know what is expected of them and how they fit into the overall scheme.

Youngstown State’s doctoral program gives the open admission, urban institution a valuable marketing tool and boosts its reputation as a research institution. The Center of Excellence in Materials Science and Engineering already has gained a national identity.

Federal, state dollars

Congressman Tim Ryan, who has worked closely with the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and has secured state and federal dollars for various research projects, issued the following statement after Thursday’s announcement by Fingerhut and Dr. Cynthia Anderson, the university’s new president:

“I would like to congratulate YSU President Cynthia Anderson, Dr. Martin Abraham, dean of the STEM College, and Dr. Peter Kasvinsky, dean of Graduate Studies and Research, for this exciting announcement. Historically, YSU’s engineering program has always been excellent, but under the guidance of Dr. Abraham, the STEM College has taken bold steps that have positioned it as a driving force for economic development in our region — the establishment of the Center of Excellence for Materials Science and Engineering and its partnership with Advanced Methods of Innovation (AMI) will funnel job-ready graduates and ground breaking research into our Valley, diversifying our local economy and creating new jobs.”

At the announcement, Fingerhut stressed that advanced materials is a critical area for Ohio, while the center of excellence is essential to the region’s future.

The Higher Learning Commission must give its approval to the PhD. program, but the involvement of the chancellor and the board of regents and the review conducted by the state are positive developments.

YSU should begin accepting applications to the program for the fall 2011 semester.