R0021/2026-03-25/Q001/SRC01/E01

Research	R0021 — Prompt engineering definitions
Run	2026-03-25
Query	Q001
Source	SRC01
Evidence	SRC01-E01
Type	Factual

ABET definition of engineering design and student outcomes defining engineering competency

URL: https://www.abet.org/accreditation/accreditation-criteria/criteria-for-accrediting-engineering-programs-2025-2026/

Extract

ABET defines Engineering Design as:

"Engineering design is a process of devising a system, component, or process to meet desired needs and specifications within constraints. It is an iterative, creative, decision-making process in which the basic sciences, mathematics, and engineering sciences are applied to convert resources into solutions."

ABET requires all accredited baccalaureate engineering programs to demonstrate seven student outcomes:

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
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
5. An ability to function effectively on a team
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed

Relevance to Hypotheses

Hypothesis	Relationship	Strength
H1	Supports	Provides a formal definition with specific, measurable criteria; converges with ECPD/IEEE definitions on scientific/mathematical foundation
H2	Contradicts	Demonstrates a formal definition exists from an authoritative body
H3	Supports	Some outcomes (e.g., "make informed judgments," "ethical responsibilities") are qualitative rather than precisely measurable

Context

ABET's criteria apply to all accredited engineering programs in the United States. The definition of engineering design and the student outcomes collectively define what ABET considers to be engineering competency. These criteria are the basis for program accreditation decisions.

Notes

ABET does not provide a standalone definition of "engineering" as a profession — instead, it defines engineering through its design process and required competencies. This is a functional definition rather than a lexical one.