Sacred Heart University’s School of Computer Science & Engineering has established a new bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering. The program will begin in the fall 2019 semester.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, technological innovation is driving demand for electrical engineers in research and development. For example, innovations in solar arrays, semiconductors and communications technologies demand the expertise of electrical engineers, who earned a median pay of $97,970 in 2017, according to the labor bureau.
Employment in the field is projected to rise 7 percent over the next decade, according to the bureau. A BS degree is an adequate academic credential for a typical entry-level position.
“There are currently hundreds of electrical engineering positions in the Northeast that are unfilled,” said Tolga Kaya, associate professor and director of engineering at SHU’s School of Computer Science & Engineering. “And we know from our industry contacts that they are looking for local talent.”
Graduates with Sacred Heart’s new bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering will be prepared for careers as electronics engineers, power systems engineers, electronic device designers, systems engineers, microelectronic circuit designers and other related fields, the university said.
The curriculum includes engineering mathematics and electrical engineering principles, with a broad foundation in electronics and computer engineering of analog and digital electrical systems, as well as support for various areas of specialization. Students will develop skills progressively, culminating in a capstone design experience that complements the analytical part of the curriculum.
The program requires 121 credits, and students can complete the degree within four years, with an opportunity to pursue industry internships.
“We believe our innovative curriculum with embedded internships and potential co-op opportunities will give an edge to our students,” said Kaya. “Our brand new, 11,000-square-foot makerspace with the most relevant equipment for engineering students will also provide a platform for interaction, collaboration and numerous opportunities to realize ideas into prototypes.”
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