Courses % time
Math 14
Physics & Chem. 13
Intro. Computing 5
Mechanics & Thermodynamics 5
Electromagnetic Fields 2
Logic Circuits & Lab 3
Computer Architecture & Switching 5
Circuits & Electronics & Labs 13
Energy Conversion 2
Linear Systems 2
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 13
Other electives* 18
|
*Electives may include additional technical courses in Semiconductor
Device Construction, Advanced Topics in Computer Languages, Computer
Architecture, Computer Construction, Communications, Microwaves,
etc., depending on the interests and the size of the faculty. Topics
in business and arts and sciences may also be included.
Courses % time
Math 14
Physics or Chem. 13
Intro. Computing 5
Computer Hardware & Microcomputers 7
Software Engineering 7
Lab & Design Work 9
Electrical engineering electives 9
Other technical electives 9
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 13
Other electives* 9
|
Courses % time
Math 13
Physics & Labs 6
Digital Systems & Microcomputers 6
Intro. Programming 2
Advanced Programming 3
Circuits & Electronics & Labs 22
Computer Systems & Applications 5
Linear Systems 2
Communications 3
Control Systems 3
Oral/Written Communication 7
Social Science/Humanities 12
Technical electives 16
|
Courses % time
Math 6-19
Physics & Labs 6
Computer Programming 2
Digital Electronics & Microprocessors/
Microcomputers 3-6
Circuits, Networks, Electronic Devices 12-23
Linear Circuits & Systems 6-19
Machines, Control Systems, Robotics 2-7
Drawing/CAD/Fabrication Skills 2
Oral/Written Communications 5
Social Science/Humanities 5
|
Engineering courses require a high degree of analytical skill and
the ability to handle abstract models of physical phenomena. In
general, the more abstract or theoretical the course, the more
condensed is the information, and the more broadly it can be applied
when accompanied by fundamental concepts and common sense. Learning
the theory of engineering allows you to create designs and to build
models of systems. It also allows you to analyze the potential
failure of systems that have already been constructed.
An electrical engineering program will usually include more
mathematics and science than will technology and technician
programs. The program may include electives in electronic design,
communications, control and signal processing theory, solid state
devices, integrated circuit design, radio wave and optical
communications systems, and power generation and distribution.
Mathematics courses will typically include calculus, differential
equations, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistics. The basic courses of computer engineering are almost identical to
those for electrical and electronics engineering. The differences
occur toward the end of the college program where the technical
concentration is on computer architecture, switching theory, and
computer design. You will probably find more electives in numerical
methods, database design, operating systems, artificial
intelligence, data communications, and voice communications. Engineering technology programs emphasize both technical and
practical proficiency. They are more likely to specialize in a
particular discipline starting with the first year. They also
include a laboratory experience with almost every technical course,
and they usually include courses in computer-aided drafting (CAD),
fabrication, software development, data acquisition, and report
writing. An electronics program may emphasize solid-state circuitry and
communications, while an electrical program would offer more
instruction in electrical machines, control systems, power systems,
robotics, and automated manufacturing. Computer technology programs
provide students with a stronger background in computer software and
hardware, but still include basic circuits and electronics courses. If you compare courses in engineering with similar courses in
engineering technology, you'll find that engineering technology
programs tend to be oriented to contemporary devices and systems and
current technology. There is less emphasis on the underlying science
and more on the here and now.
Work experience can help make educational activities more
meaningful, and it often provides insight into the kind of work you
will be doing after graduation. A number of universities offer co-op
programs, which involve alternating education and work experience.
These programs may take longer than the standard four years to
complete, but many employers compensate for this with higher
starting salaries. Summer jobs or internships in engineering offer
alternatives to practical co-op experience and provide some of the
same benefits. |