Introduction
Engineering is a profession in which a strong knowledge
of mathematics and the natural sciences is applied to achieve practical
ends. It is typically a very rewarding career path that offers many
options for specialized, discipline-specific study.(For more information about Engineering, visit the Ingram School of Engineering).
The Transfer Option
Those who select the transfer option at Texas State will
transfer to a four-year school that offers a regular engineering program
after taking approximately 66 hours of course work. Generally, transfer
students are classified as pre-engineering majors, carry a major code
along with a pre-professional suffix code of "2", and are
advised by the Math Department (421-E), the Physics Department (431.2),
the Chemistry Department (411.2) or the Technology Department (471.2).
The choice of where advisement is sought depends on where the student
feels most comfortable being advised. Most likely, this will be related
to the department that offers the closest "second interest"
for any particular individual.The most critical feature of this program
is that students following the transfer option must transfer to a four-year
engineering school after about two years at Texas State. If at the end
of two years they choose not to transfer, they must commit to a major
on our campus.
Engineering Technology
The Engineering Technology major (major code 477), offered
through The Department of Engineering & Technology at Texas State, is an applications
engineering-oriented program that can be fully completed on the Texas
State campus. About half of the course work in this major is transferable
to a four-year engineering program. Whereas pure engineering is highly
theoretical, engineering technology combines solid engineering knowledge
with technical skills in support of engineering activity. It is a universally
recognized profession that is growing rapidly with regard to employment
opportunities. The engineering technology major at Texas State can easily
become the stepping stone to graduate level engineering programs at
traditional engineering schools. For the most part, minimal course work
is required for beginning masters level study in industrial or manufacturing
engineering. Engineering technology is also an appropriate degree from
which to pursue an MBA. Employment opportunities for graduates are excellent.
For advisement on this program, contact the Chair of the Technology
Department.
Summary
As is the case with all technical, professional and scientific
degrees, the selection and sequencing of freshman and sophomore level
course work is critical. In all of the options listed above, students
must realize that the appropriate and regular sequencing of mathematics
courses should begin in the first semester at Texas State. They should
continue paying careful attention to pre-requisite courses. Science
courses should be given that same level of attention to insure that
competencies are built at a highly controlled rate of advancement. Without
following the critical sequence of courses as prescribed by the advisor,
limited academic success can be expected, especially at the upper level
of a student's undergraduate career. If students select the transfer
option, it is recommended that they work closely with the university
to which they intend to transfer to confirm and verify full transferability
of course work taken at Texas State. In all cases, it is the university
to which one transfers that has the final say over what does and does
not count toward a degree. Finally, it is important to note that the
math and science course sequences should not be delayed. Delay can cause
serious consequences in the junior and senior years. Pursuing any of
the career options described on this page is generally a wise decision.
The engineering profession is a widely recognized and well respected
career path, which requires a strong commitment to academic study. This
will pay great dividends in the end. Texas State has played a major
role in helping many of our people find their way to a rewarding technical
and professional career in engineering. As students continue their course
work here at Texas State, they should stay in close contact with their
academic advisor. Remember, advisors can only be effective when students
seek them out for assistance.
Why Texas State ?
The various engineering-oriented options as Texas State
allow students to start their college career in the "small school"
environment that exists on our campus. Along with that small school
atmosphere comes a faculty dedicated to teaching. As a rule, classes
are smaller then those typically found at larger universities. Also,
students will experience firsthand interaction with regular professors,
not teaching assistants or part time faculty. If students choose to
transfer to another school, their time spent at Texas State will have
been academically fulfilling and will have provided them with a strong foundation
for advanced academic study. Generally, they will also find great benefit
in the exposure provided by attending two different schools.
For many students, starting their college career at a
smaller more personal university, is the difference between completing
and not completing a degree program. With the solid foundation provided
by the transfer option, the 3-2 option, or Engineering Technology degree,
employment opportunities and rewarding professional careers will become
available upon graduation. In every way, Texas State will be a lasting
part of fond memories as an undergraduate.
Department of Technology Options