Engineering, Major, Undergraduate Program, �鶹ɫ��Ƭ

Engineering Major Success By The Numbers

Placement of Graduates

Through the years, our graduates consistently find success in employment or graduate schools within six months of graduation.

First Job, Dream Industry

SECCM graduates land their first jobs in their targeted industries, such as engineering, defense, construction, manufacturing, technology, or consulting.

Average Starting Salary

of 2022 SECCM graduates.

Engineering Degree Requirements

The 4+1 M.B.A and B.S. in Engineering pathway is part of the Bachelor’s Plus Program, which offers seamless admission into the Masters in Business Administration Program at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ students can complete their undergraduate and graduate education in five years with the ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Engineering and the AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration with the 4+1 program.

More information on the Bachelor’s Plus program

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ and UMass Dartmouth have partnered to create three joint 4+1 master's programs. The educational partnership agreement between the institutions will provide undergraduate students at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ with the opportunity to earn accelerated graduate degrees in electrical engineering, computer engineering, and civil engineering at UMassD.

During their senior year, �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Engineering students can begin taking courses toward a master's degree at UMassD, allowing them to complete both degrees in five years. This unique opportunity offers students an efficient and cost-effective pathway to reach their academic goals and begin careers in high-demand fields.

Eligibility & Application

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Students may apply to the accelerated pathway upon achieving classification as juniors with the Engineering major Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering Specializations.

To apply, students must:

Have a 3.2 or better GPA overall after completion of the fall semester of their junior year.
Complete a short application to be reviewed by the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at UMassD, including unofficial transcripts.
Provide one letter of recommendation from an �鶹ɫ��Ƭ faculty member in Engineering.

Students will apply during the spring semester of their junior year or when they have completed all the required courses for the first five semesters of study in the major. The �鶹ɫ��Ƭ program coordinator will be responsible for sending applications to the Graduate Program Director in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at UMassD by March 31st.

A preliminary decision on conditional admission to the accelerated pathway will be communicated before the end of April during the applicant's junior year. As a result of preliminary admission to the accelerated pathway, formal application and matriculation to the Computer Engineering master's program at UMassD will be expedited. A formal application to the master's program will be required. An official acceptance into the master's program at UMassD will be conveyed to the student no later than May 31st of their junior year.

Civil Engineering

Students may apply to the accelerated pathway upon completing 75 credits with a major in Engineering and a Specialization in Civil Engineering.

To apply, students must:

Have a 3.0 or better GPA overall.
Meet with the UMassD CEN Graduate Program Director in the spring of their junior year to discuss course selection for their senior year.
Provide one letter of recommendation from a �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Engineering faculty member.

Students should apply to the accelerated program during the spring of their junior year no later than May 1st. Students may apply directly to the program through the

Students may choose to take graduate level courses at UMassD during their senior year after consulting with the UMassD CEN GPO. Students may then register for graduate classes during the usual UMassD class registration period on or around March of their junior year after meeting with the UMassD CEN Graduate Program Director.

Accelerated Pathways

Computer Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete any two �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Computer Engineering Specialization courses from the list can apply six credits to the Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD. The required grade is B or better for each course.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 424 - Digital Signal Processing (3 credits) to UMassD ECE475 Digital Signal Processing (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 450 - Mechatronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering VLSI (3 credits) to UMassD EGE 413 - Introduction to VLSI Design (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering Power Electronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD during their senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the ECE graduate program director. The required grade is C or better.
An �鶹ɫ��Ƭ student may opt to take one of the following Cybersecurity-related courses at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ as part of their full-time load, which counts as a 500-level free elective in the ECE graduate program. The required grade for the Cybersecurity-related course at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is (B-, B minus) or better.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 600 - CyberSecurity Essentials (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 615 - Intrusion Detection: Firewalling and Defense (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 620 - Ma/ware Analysis and Malicious Software (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 625 - Pen Testing and Incident Response (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)

Double counting

With option (1) only, a maximum of 6 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following set:
- ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics).
- The student will have 6 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (2) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (3) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from 3 of the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1), (2) and (3), a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- By (3), the student will earn 3 credits for a standalone graduate-level ECE course at UMassD, which is excluded from the double counting scheme. All in all, the student will have 12 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.

Electrical Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete any two �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Electrical Engineering Specialization courses from the list can apply six credits to the Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD. The required grade is B or better for each course.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 424 - Digital Signal Processing (3 credits) to UMassD ECE475 Digital Signal Processing (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 445 - Dynamic Modeling and Control (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 450 - Mechatronics (3 credits) toUMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering VLSI (3 credits) to EGE 413 - Introduction to VLSI Design (3 credits)
5. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering Power Electronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD during their senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the ECE graduate program director. The required grade is C or better.
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one of the following Cybersecurity-related courses at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ as part of their full-time load, which counts as a 500-level free elective in the ECE graduate program. The required grade for the Cybersecurity-related course at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is (B-, B minus) or better.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 600- CyberSecurity Essentials (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 615 - Intrusion Detection: Firewalling and Defense (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 620 - Ma/ware Analysis and Malicious Software (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 625 - Pen Testing and Incident Response (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)

Double counting

With option (1) only, a maximum of 6 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following set:
- ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics).
- The student will have 6 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (2) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (3) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1 ), (2) and (3), a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- By (3), the student will earn 3 credits for a standalone graduate-level ECE course at UMassD, which is excluded from the double counting scheme. All in all, the student will have 12 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.

Civil Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete two of the courses listed with a grade of B or better can apply up to six credits to the MS in Civil Engineering at UMassD.
1. ENGR 405 Air Pollution and Control to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
2. ENGR 407 Solid and Hazardous Waste Management to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
3. ENGR 418 Construction Engineering to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
4. ENGR 428 Open Channel Hydraulics to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
5. ENGR 419 Highway Bridge Design to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level CEN course at UMassD during their junior or senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the CEN GPO. They may also apply three credits to the MS in Civil Engineering at UMassD for taking the following course.
1. CNST 540 - Sustainable Construction to UMassD CEN 530 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng

Provided that the student meets the grade requirements for the two courses selected under (1) and completes the course under (2) with a B or better grade, the student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the CEN MS degree.

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More information on the Bachelor’s Plus program

Eligibility & Application

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Students may apply to the accelerated pathway upon achieving classification as juniors with the Engineering major Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering Specializations.

To apply, students must:

Have a 3.2 or better GPA overall after completion of the fall semester of their junior year.
Complete a short application to be reviewed by the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at UMassD, including unofficial transcripts.
Provide one letter of recommendation from an �鶹ɫ��Ƭ faculty member in Engineering.

Civil Engineering

Students may apply to the accelerated pathway upon completing 75 credits with a major in Engineering and a Specialization in Civil Engineering.

To apply, students must:

Have a 3.0 or better GPA overall.
Meet with the UMassD CEN Graduate Program Director in the spring of their junior year to discuss course selection for their senior year.
Provide one letter of recommendation from a �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Engineering faculty member.

Students should apply to the accelerated program during the spring of their junior year no later than May 1st. Students may apply directly to the program through the

Accelerated Pathways

Computer Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete any two �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Computer Engineering Specialization courses from the list can apply six credits to the Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD. The required grade is B or better for each course.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 424 - Digital Signal Processing (3 credits) to UMassD ECE475 Digital Signal Processing (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 450 - Mechatronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering VLSI (3 credits) to UMassD EGE 413 - Introduction to VLSI Design (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering Power Electronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD during their senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the ECE graduate program director. The required grade is C or better.
An �鶹ɫ��Ƭ student may opt to take one of the following Cybersecurity-related courses at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ as part of their full-time load, which counts as a 500-level free elective in the ECE graduate program. The required grade for the Cybersecurity-related course at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is (B-, B minus) or better.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 600 - CyberSecurity Essentials (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 615 - Intrusion Detection: Firewalling and Defense (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 620 - Ma/ware Analysis and Malicious Software (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 625 - Pen Testing and Incident Response (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)

Double counting

With option (1) only, a maximum of 6 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following set:
- ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics).
- The student will have 6 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (2) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (3) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from 3 of the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.
With options (1), (2) and (3), a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Computer Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- By (3), the student will earn 3 credits for a standalone graduate-level ECE course at UMassD, which is excluded from the double counting scheme. All in all, the student will have 12 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Computer Engineering MS degree.

Electrical Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete any two �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Electrical Engineering Specialization courses from the list can apply six credits to the Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD. The required grade is B or better for each course.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 424 - Digital Signal Processing (3 credits) to UMassD ECE475 Digital Signal Processing (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 445 - Dynamic Modeling and Control (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 450 - Mechatronics (3 credits) toUMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering VLSI (3 credits) to EGE 413 - Introduction to VLSI Design (3 credits)
5. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ ENGR 479 - Special Topics in Engineering Power Electronics (3 credits) to UMassD ECE403 Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD during their senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the ECE graduate program director. The required grade is C or better.
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one of the following Cybersecurity-related courses at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ as part of their full-time load, which counts as a 500-level free elective in the ECE graduate program. The required grade for the Cybersecurity-related course at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is (B-, B minus) or better.
1. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 600- CyberSecurity Essentials (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
2. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 615 - Intrusion Detection: Firewalling and Defense (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
3. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 620 - Ma/ware Analysis and Malicious Software (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)
4. �鶹ɫ��Ƭ SEC 625 - Pen Testing and Incident Response (3 credits) to UMassD ECE591 Special topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering (3 credits)

Double counting

With option (1) only, a maximum of 6 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following set:
- ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics).
- The student will have 6 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (2) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one graduate-level ECE course at UMassD.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1) and (3) only, a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- The student will have 9 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.
With options (1 ), (2) and (3), a maximum of 9 credits may be double counted toward the Engineering BS degree at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ and Electrical Engineering MS degree at UMassD from the following sets:
- two courses from ENGR 424, ENGR 445, ENGR 450, ENGR 479 (VLSI), ENGR 479 (Power Electronics), and one course from SEC 600, SEC 615, SEC 620, SEC 625.
- By (3), the student will earn 3 credits for a standalone graduate-level ECE course at UMassD, which is excluded from the double counting scheme. All in all, the student will have 12 credits invested toward the 30 credits required for the Electrical Engineering MS degree.

Civil Engineering

Accelerated Pathways

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students who complete two of the courses listed with a grade of B or better can apply up to six credits to the MS in Civil Engineering at UMassD.
1. ENGR 405 Air Pollution and Control to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
2. ENGR 407 Solid and Hazardous Waste Management to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
3. ENGR 418 Construction Engineering to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
4. ENGR 428 Open Channel Hydraulics to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
5. ENGR 419 Highway Bridge Design to UMassD CEN 430 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng
�鶹ɫ��Ƭ students may opt to take one graduate-level CEN course at UMassD during their junior or senior year at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ. The course should be chosen in consultation with the CEN GPO. They may also apply three credits to the MS in Civil Engineering at UMassD for taking the following course.
1. CNST 540 - Sustainable Construction to UMassD CEN 530 Topics in Civil & Environ Eng

Engineering Program Educational Objectives

Three to five years after graduation, we expect our graduates to:

Possess an inquisitive mind, demonstrate excellence in technical knowledge and skills, achieve success as a practicing engineer or graduate student, and apply the highest ethical standards in all pursuits.
Value the concept of, and demonstrate through practice, activities and actions that contribute to continual intellectual growth.
Advance the engineering profession by becoming actively involved in professional associations and societies, serving in professional and community volunteer positions, acting as a role model for the future generation of engineers, and assisting the SECCM Engineering Program in achieving its mission and goals

Tailor Your Engineering Expertise with a Specialization

Once you have a broad background in Engineering practices, beginning in your third year, you will have the flexibility to tailor your education to your own Engineering interests by selecting a specialization. Students may choose from Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, or Mechanical, or can consult with their faculty advisor to create a custom specialization.

Civil Specialization

From the roads, highways and bridges we drive on to the clean water we drink and the buildings we see in the skyline, Civil Engineering makes modern life possible.

Computer Specialization

The rapid advances in today’s computer technology are largely the result of the research, development, and design efforts of computer engineers.

Electrical Specialization

In a world where technology is constantly growing and evolving, Electrical Engineering is becoming more essential, from lighting and wiring in buildings to electric motors for automobiles.

Environmental Specialization

Environmental engineers work on solutions to water and air pollution, design water supply and wastewater treatment systems, and study the effects that acid rain, global warming, and automobile emission have on our everyday lives.

Mechanical Specialization

From power-producing machines like wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, and internal combustion engines to power-using machines like cars, planes, robots, and medical devices, mechanical engineers are constantly designing and developing life-changing mechanisms.

Custom Specialization

Students interested in more than one type of Engineering, or those who want to prepare for an emerging field not defined by a traditional specialization, can work with their faculty advisor to design a custom specialization perfectly tailored to their interests.

4+1 Master's Program Partnership with UMass Dartmouth

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ and UMass Dartmouth have partnered to provide joint accelerated master's programs in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Civil Engineering.

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ engineering students can take two courses their senior year and apply those 6 credits to one of 3 UMass master’s in engineering degrees – civil, computer or electrical, allowing them to complete both degrees in five years.

This unique opportunity offers students an efficient and cost-effective pathway to reach their academic goals and begin careers in high-demand fields.

Students interested in the accelerated B.S./M.S. programs may consult their program coordinator or dean about eligibility and the application process.

Engineering State-of-the-Art Facilities

An exterior shot of the SECCM Labs building

A closeup of equipment in the Electrical Engineering lab

Tensile and compression testing machines in the Mechanics and Materials Lab

The newest building on the Bristol campus, the Richard L. Bready Applied Learning Laboratories is designed to foster collaboration and innovation while offering high-tech resources for experiential learning. The three-floor, 27,325-square-foot building features seven cutting-edge laboratories, senior design project rooms and open spaces dedicated to hands-on education.

NASA-Funded Undergraduate Engineering Research

Two undergraduate Engineering students spent the summer working on cutting-edge lasers research, funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Senior Santiago Armas and junior Hunter Phillips, both Engineering majors with Electrical specializations and minors in Mathematics, received prestigious summer research scholarships from the NASA Rhode Island Space Grant Consortium. Assistant Professor of Engineering Ahmet Akosman, whose areas of expertise include lasers and fiber optics, served as their advisor. This valuable hands-on research experience will set the students apart when applying for jobs or graduate school after Roger.

Read Full NASA Research Story

Hear from Hawks

Jared Ramos '18

“By the time I was in advanced classes there were only 10-12 students in each class. We were all really close with our professors. I remember one professor who would stay late after class helping students with projects, working on robotics, having fun and always being there for support. You could tell he really cared."

Jared Ramos '18
Major: Civil Engineering
Project Engineer at Gilbane Building Company in Providence, R.I.

Daniella Giannotti '22

"The Electrical Engineering courses I took gave me a very good basis to build off, and I like that I was able to get an interdisciplinary engineering experience. I won't be working on a project that's strictly electrical. There will be mechanical components, and having that background of knowing how things work is really helpful. That's one of the reasons I chose Roger."

Daniella Giannotti '22
Major: Electrical Engineering
Integration and Test Engineer at L3Harris Technologies in North Amityville, N.Y.

Hannah Darling '22

"All my Engineering professors were attentive, supportive, and genuinely cared about whether we were learning the material. Dr. Maija Benitz has always been an inspiration for me as a woman in Engineering. She really cares about her students and is very approachable and accessible. She gave me the push and encouragement I needed to pursue my Ph.D."

Hannah Darling '22
Major: Environmental Engineering
Ph.D. candidate in UMass Amherst's Mechanical Engineering program

Cooking Up A Pizza Robot

The Senior Design Project is a fundamental element of senior year. Much like the cross-discipline work that will be in their future careers, the design of our students’ senior projects integrates math, science, computer science, and engineering principles into a comprehensive, client-based engineering design project. Student teams work with faculty advisors to design and fabricate solutions to open-ended problems and present their projects at professional conferences and competitions.

Past Senior Design Projects have included:

Arthroscopic surgery suturing device
Bike path bridge and foundation design
Human powered vehicle competition
Wearable blood oxygen meter
Stormwater modeling and retention design

Engineering Majors Innovate Medical Device

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ Shawmut Scholars Get Full Scholarships and Great Internships

Combining industry-aligned education with real-world experience, the �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Shawmut Scholars program is an innovative partnership that enhances student learning beyond the classroom. Along with full-tuition scholarships, Shawmut Scholars get paid internships, professional development and career networking opportunities with leading industry professionals.

Career Preparedness in Engineering

Our students are encouraged and supported to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and become an Engineer In Training (EIT), a professional designation from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and a key step toward licensure as a Professional Engineer.

Employer Praise for �鶹ɫ��Ƭ Engineering Alumni

“We couldn’t have a better partner in developing the most talented professionals for our industry than �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, with its outstanding and nationally-ranked programs in construction management and engineering.”

Les Hiscoe
CEO of Shawmut Design and Construction

Faculty Experts in Engineering

Janet Baldwin, Ph.D., P.E.

Professor of Engineering

Ways for Engineering Majors to Get Involved

Society of Women Engineers

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ's chapter of the provides opportunities for women students to build community and connect with faculty mentors and industry professionals to advance women in engineering. Students travel to the Society of Women Engineers Conference, making industry connections that lead to success after graduation.

Each year, SWE brings scores of fourth-grade girls to campus for a hands-on engineering lesson that helps them earn a Girl Scouts badge.

In Fall 2020, women students accounted for 49% of all students in STEM majors, which includes the sciences, math, engineering, and computer science
41% of tenured and tenure-track Natural Science, Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics professors are women, ahead of the national average of 36%

Engineers Without Borders

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ's chapter focuses on community based projects by providing an engineering solution. Throughout the school year, students and faculty collaborate to plan, design, and prototype for upcoming projects. They also take part in various local engineering projects. In recent years, EWB has traveled with The Foundation of the International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC); their first trip was in 2016 to Dajabon, Dominican Republic.

American Society of Civil Engineers

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ's chapter of the competes in the American Institute of Steel Construction's Steel Bridge Competition in which students will plan, design, construct, and compete with various schools to see how fast they can assemble their bridge and how much load it can withstand.

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

The mission of �鶹ɫ��Ƭ's chapter of the is to inspire the application of engineering techniques, assist with the development of curious minds, and embrace the diverse benefits of calling one's self a mechanical engineer. ASME membership offers students a variety of benefits to help build their careers.

Electrical and Computer Engineering Club

As part of �鶹ɫ��Ƭ's , members participate in professional development, social outings, basic electronic activities, and discussions about technology. IEEE is the world’s largest professional association dedicated to advancing technological innovation and excellence for the benefit of humanity, and its members are engineers, scientists, and allied professionals whose technical interests are rooted in electrical and computer sciences, engineering, and related disciplines.

Robotics Innovation

Members of the Robotics Innovation club tabling at a student involvement fair The goal of the Robotics Innovation club is to gather passion-driven students of all academic years who wish to innovate and gain hands-on experience in the fundamentals of building robots with kits and previous pre-existing projects. Students can participate in robotics/innovation competitions, conferences, and more. Robotics Innovation encourages both engineers and technology-interested non-engineers to share the passion for robotics and innovation.

Multicultural STEM Alliance

The Multicultural STEM Alliance aims to strengthen the sense of community among students of color in STEM majors at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ by offering activities, mentorship, and networking opportunities at and outside of the university.

Frequently Asked Questions

SECCM FAQ

Does SECCM accept Advanced Placement (AP) credits?

Please visit Advanced Placement for all your questions about AP credits.

How can I redo my math placement?

You can take the online Math placement up to two times. A third time may be allowed as an in-person exam. Please visit Placement by Subject for more information on Math placement and how to register for the online or in-person exam.

What is the writing placement process?

Writing Placement at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is determined by a directed self-placement survey. Directed self-placement helps students decide which first-year writing course will be best for them. Please visit Placement by Subject for more information on Writing placement.

Engineering FAQ

How is a specialization different from a degree in that discipline at a different school?

At our university, students pursuing a degree in engineering receive an ABET-accredited B.S. in Engineering degree. Students focused on a particular engineering discipline by specializing in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Computer, or Environmental Engineering. Unlike programs at some other schools where you must choose your major early on, our students can wait to decide on their specialization until the end of their second year. This approach allows students to explore various engineering disciplines through foundational courses before making a more informed choice.

Additionally, our interdisciplinary training emphasizes collaboration across different fields of engineering, reflecting the increasing interdisciplinary nature of the industry. This broadens students' skill sets and prepares them for the collaborative work environments they will encounter in their careers. Even with this interdisciplinary focus, students still complete all necessary courses for their specializations while meeting ABET standards, the leading engineering accreditation organization.

When do I need to declare my specialization? What do I do if I want to do something other than the pre-listed specializations?

Students declare their engineering specializations by the end of their second year. This decision is made in consultation with academic advisors and after taking courses in several areas of engineering during the first two years. If you are interested in a specialization beyond civil, mechanical, electrical, computer, or environmental engineering, you can opt for a custom specialization. This requires you to develop a plan that will be reviewed and approved by a subset of the engineering faculty. Two examples of custom specialization that students have completed in the past have focused on biomedical engineering and chemical engineering.

Can I do a minor in another program?

All engineering students automatically earn a minor in Mathematics by completing the program requirements. While most students focus on their engineering coursework, 5-10% choose to pursue a second minor, which is certainly possible with careful planning.

Popular second minors for engineering students include Architecture, Construction Management, Physics, and Sustainability Studies, allowing students to expand their expertise in complementary fields. With over 70 minors available at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ, students have the flexibility to tailor their education to their career goals and interests.

Full list of majors and minors offered at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ.

How can I access the fabrication shops? Can I use the 3-D printers?

Engineering students have access to fabrication and testing labs as well as our 3D printers in the Innovation Lab as part of their coursework and research. To use these resources, you will need to be enrolled in a course that integrates them or in a club that has approved use, ensuring you receive the proper training and follow safety protocols.

These labs provide hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology, supporting both class projects and research opportunities. If you have questions about access, safety procedures, or how to get involved, consult your course instructor or reach out to Mr. James Dorothy, SECCM’s Director of Operations.

Are there any study-abroad opportunities?

Yes, our engineering students have numerous study-abroad opportunities. Ireland and England are particularly popular destinations for semester-long study abroad programs. For more options and detailed information, visit our study abroad webpage.

Engineering students who wish to study abroad should discuss their plans with their academic advisors as early as possible, ideally at least a year before they intend to travel. Typically, students go abroad during the spring semester of their third year. Many students wonder if they can still graduate in four years, and the answer is yes, provided they follow the program guidelines and meet the requirements set by their advisors and the study abroad office.

It's becoming increasingly common for our engineering students to participate in semester-long study abroad programs. Additionally, many students opt for short-term study abroad experiences by taking summer courses. There are numerous summer course options, with the core senior seminar being a popular choice for summer study abroad between the junior and senior years.

Learn more by visiting �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s study abroad web page.

What are the career outcomes for engineering graduates?

Our engineering program boasts a 95-100% employment rate for graduates within six months of graduation. This impressive statistic reflects our commitment to ensuring students attain employment or graduate school admission promptly. Graduates secure their first jobs in their industries of interest, including engineering, defense, construction, manufacturing, technology, and consulting.

To support students in their career journeys, the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) offers various services, including resume reviews, career fairs, and alumni panels. Additionally, all engineering students take a 1-credit senior seminar course focused solely on career and professional development, run collaboratively between CCPD and our engineering program. This comprehensive approach equips our students with the necessary skills and connections to thrive in their chosen fields.

What kinds of career opportunities are available for the graduates?

Graduates from our engineering program have numerous exciting career opportunities across various industries. They work for prestigious companies such as Raytheon, General Dynamics Electric Boat, Boeing, Aramco, and Amazon. Our alumni hold diverse roles, including design engineers, operations managers, project managers, and research scientists. They excel in sectors such as aerospace, defense, automotive, healthcare, and finance, contributing to advancements in technology, infrastructure, and more. Additionally, some of our graduates pursue advanced degrees, including master's and PhDs, further enhancing their expertise and career prospects.

What research opportunities exist?

Our engineering program offers numerous research opportunities for students, starting as early as their first year. Many faculty members have research projects funded both internally and externally, which often require student research assistants for both short and long-term engagements.

Students interested in participating in research should express their interest to their instructors and explore the faculty research interests on our faculty page. While ongoing paid research opportunities are not guaranteed, reaching out to faculty members is the first step.

Paid research opportunities are typically available every semester, including winter and summer sessions. Students generally work a few hours per week during the regular semesters, with the potential to work up to 20 hours per week. During winter and summer semesters, opportunities to work up to 40 hours per week are also available. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students looking to deepen their understanding of their field and contribute to cutting-edge engineering projects.

How can I get involved with an engineering club?

�鶹ɫ��Ƭ and SECCM offer several engineering clubs and organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Robotics Innovation, the Society of Professional Engineers (SPE), Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and Engineers Without Borders (EWB). These clubs provide hands-on projects, networking opportunities, and professional development, as well as opportunities to practice leadership skills as an officer of the club. You can get involved by attending the Involvement Fair, reaching out to club leaders or faculty advisors, or joining meetings and events. Getting involved is a great way to apply your skills outside the classroom and connect with peers and industry professionals. For more details on engineering clubs and other opportunities, visit Ways to Get Involved.

Can I take classes part-time or online?

The Engineering program at �鶹ɫ��Ƭ is designed as a full-time, in-person program, typically completed in eight semesters. While almost all required courses are in-person, there are some online course options, particularly within the general education curriculum, that may provide flexibility along the way. However, it is not possible to complete the entire degree online due to the hands-on nature of the curriculum.

This in-person experience is a key advantage, allowing students to engage in lab work, research, and collaborative projects while benefiting from direct faculty support and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Are there any opportunities for internships or hands-on experience?

Yes! �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s Engineering program emphasizes real-world, hands-on experience through internships, research projects, and industry collaborations. Many students intern with engineering firms, government agencies, and research institutions, often leading to full-time job offers after graduation.

Students also engage in lab work, design projects, and senior design experiences, working on real-world, client-based challenges that apply their engineering skills in practical settings. These opportunities help develop technical expertise, industry connections, and career readiness.

To explore these opportunities, students can connect with faculty advisors and �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s Center for Career & Professional Development, which offers resume reviews, career fairs, alumni panels, and other career support services.

Are there any resources available for students who need additional academic support?

Yes! �鶹ɫ��Ƭ offers a range of academic support resources to help students succeed. The Tutoring Center provides free tutoring in subjects like math, writing, science, and business, as well as dedicated support for engineering courses through the SECCM Tutoring Center. The Center for Student Academic Success (CSAS) offers additional academic advising, peer mentorship, and Student Accessibility Services (SAS) for students who need accommodations. Engineering students also benefit from small class sizes and a dedicated engineering faculty advisor who provides academic guidance throughout the students’ time in the program. These combined resources ensure students have the support they need to excel academically and professionally.

What is the typical class size for engineering courses?

Most engineering courses have around 24 students, typically ranging from 20 to 30. Lab sections are even smaller, usually between 12 and 16 students, ensuring hands-on learning, close faculty interaction, and individualized support. This structure allows students to collaborate effectively, engage deeply in experiments and design work, and receive personalized instruction.

Do you recommend I purchase a laptop with certain specifications?

You can purchase a new laptop or use one you already own if it meets or exceeds the . Please note that students using Apple-based machines or Chromebooks may need to supplement the operating system to be able to work with Intel-only software packages.

Contact Us

Charles R. Thomas, Ph.D.

Emailcthomas@rwu.edu

Phone(401) 254-3259

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