University of Nevada, Reno, College of Engineering Records

The Nevada state constitution in 1864 placed emphasis on the mechanic arts and mining, and instruction was directed toward these disciplines as mining engineering. In 1896-97, the university register listed for the first time a department of engineering with two subdivisions: the School of Mines and School of Engineering (Civil and Mechanical). The first dean of the College of Engineering was appointed in 1914, which continued to include mining until 1951, when it was separated from the college. In the late 1950's nuclear engineering was added, but with financial troubles in the early 1970s, it was absorbed into electrical engineering.

During this period, the College of Engineering offered instruction in various engineering specialties through the following departments: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Nuclear. It also offered technology programs designed to prepare technicians to assist engineers in the major areas of research, development, and manufacturing.