Kettering University

What is the history of Kettering University?

Kettering University is a private university in Flint, Michigan, whose academic identity grew out of training for the automotive industry. Founded in 1919 as the School of Automobile Trades, it later became General Motors Institute. The institution became independent of General Motors in 1982 and adopted the name Kettering University in 1998, honoring inventor and former General Motors research executive Charles F. Kettering.

That history helps explain the university's emphasis on engineering, applied science, business and cooperative education. Kettering's required undergraduate co-op model connects periods of academic study with work at an employer; it is more central to the degree experience than an optional summer internship.

What are the faculties and departments at Kettering University?

Kettering concentrates on engineering, science, computing and business rather than offering a broad range of liberal-arts majors. Its academic organization includes the College of Engineering, the College of Sciences and Liberal Arts, and the School of Management.

Undergraduate options include mechanical, electrical, computer and chemical engineering, along with computer science, applied mathematics, biology and business-related study. Graduate programs include engineering and management fields. Students comparing majors should examine each program's curriculum and co-op requirements: an interest in technology does not necessarily mean that every Kettering major leads to the same kind of work or professional credential.

What is the location of Kettering University?

Kettering's main campus is at 1700 University Avenue in Flint, Michigan. It is an urban campus, so students should consider both campus facilities and how they will travel to work placements, groceries and activities elsewhere in the area.

Flint's automotive and manufacturing history is relevant to Kettering's institutional ties, but co-op employers are not limited to Flint. A placement elsewhere may require a separate housing and transportation plan. Bishop International Airport serves the Flint area; students without a car should check local transit routes and the practical commute to a prospective employer before accepting a placement.

What is the mission and vision of Kettering University?

Kettering describes its educational purpose in terms of combining academic learning with practical experience and developing people who can apply science, technology and business knowledge. Its co-op structure is the clearest expression of that stated approach.

The university's stated priorities are useful for understanding what it asks of students: academic terms and professional work are intended to inform one another. That is an institutional aim, not proof that every placement offers the same responsibilities or mentoring. Applicants should compare the requirements and employer arrangements for their intended major.