The purpose of the Engineering major is to develop in students the necessary knowledge and analytical skills for professional engineering practice or for successful graduate studies. The Engineering program is characterized by breadth but permits study in depth, to include attaining a specialization in civil, computer, electrical, or mechanical engineering. The Engineering major also provides for flexibility to address the unknown challenges of the 21st century. In consultation with an academic advisor, students may design a Custom Specialization to prepare for emerging fields not immediately definable with traditional specializations.
Engineers apply the principles of mathematics and the laws of natural science to analyze, design, develop and devise improvements that benefit humanity. The Engineering program consists of a course of study in mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals during the first two years of study. Students then tailor their program to their own specific needs by selection, with the assistance of their advisor, of appropriate elective courses constituting a specialization. The resulting curriculum is designed to achieve a balance between science and engineering, to provide an understanding of the economic and social implications of engineering activity, and to develop creative talents. This program includes the necessary topics found on the Fundamentals of Engineering exam.