1. (1) The purpose of the Utah Engineering and Computer Science Initiative (UECSI) is to increase the number of graduates in engineering, computer science, and related technology.
2. (2) UECSI improves the quality of instructional programs in engineering, computer science, and related technology by providing supplemental money for equipment purchases and providing incentives to qualifying institutions to hire and retain faculty. This includes funding for new and renovated capital facilities and funding for new engineering and computer science programs.
3. (3) The UECSI funds shall be used for degree programs in the areas of engineering, computer science, and related technology programs. The distribution of funds to qualifying institutions shall be based on a formula developed by the Engineering and Computer Science Talent Advisory Council.
4. (4) The Engineering and Computer Science Talent Advisory Council shall evaluate and rank each proposal submitted by a qualifying institution.

5. (5) The funding amount shall be based on:

   1. (a) The quality and completeness of the elements of the proposal; and

   2. (b) The extent to which the proposed program would:

      1. (i) Expand the capacity to meet state or regional workforce needs related to the talent initiative;
      2. (ii) Integrate industry-relevant competencies with disciplinary expertise;
      3. (iii) Incorporate internships or significant project experiences, including team-based experiences;
      4. (iv) Identify how industry professionals would participate in elements described in the initiative;
      5. (v) Is cost effective; and
      6. (vi) Other relevant criteria determined by the Engineering and Computer Science Talent Advisory Council.
6. (6) The Engineering and Computer Science Talent Advisory Council shall make recommendations to the Board on the allocation and distribution of UECSI funds to qualifying institutions.
7. (7) The Board decides whether to approve the recommended distribution of UECSI funds.
8. (8) The Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education, through Talent Ready Utah, will provide staff support to the Engineering and Computer Science Talent Advisory Council.

KEY: Utah Board of Higher Education, talent education and industry alignment, engineering, computer science, program

Date of Last Change: May 5, 2026

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 53H-1-602