Todd Pedlar (department head)

The student majoring in Engineering Science will gain a solid background in our current understanding of the physical universe and in the principles of engineering design. Students will learn and experience first hand how that understanding evolves through the interplay between theory and experiment. Research facilities include computer labs

for theoretical research and analysis of experimental data, modern experimental labs, and an astronomical observatory. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one internship experience. 

Required for an Engineering Science major: The major consists of PHYS/ENGR 150, PHYS 201, 202, ENGR 251 and 351, and PHYS/ENGR 311 and 312, and PHYS/ENGR/MATH 250. One additional course chosen from ENGR 353, PHYS 359, PHYS 361, and PHYS 364 is required. PHYS 151 and PHYS 152 may be used to satisfy the requirement of PHYS 201 and 202. In addition a year of college chemistry is required, in the form either of CHEM 151/152, or CHEM 201, or transfer equivalent, is required. Finally, coursework equivalent to MATH 351 is required. The capstone experience for Engineering Science is a required Senior Project, which consists of a 1 credit ENGR 490 and 2 credit ENGR 491. Eligible students may apply to replace ENGR 490/491 with a year-long Senior Honors Project, ENGR 493. 

Students are also encouraged to take other PHYS and ENGR courses based on their future area of engineering specialization, such as PHYS 359 (Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics), PHYS 364 (Electricity and Magnetism), ENGR 353 (Fluid Mechanics), PHYS 369 (Numerical Physics), and/or PHYS 411 (Quantum Mechanics). Further supporting courses in mathematics, computer science, and other sciences are desirable. Each student’s course of study is designed to meet the needs and special interests of the student and their preparation for the engineering discipline of their choice.

Advanced Placement Credit: Students with exceptional preparation in physics (a thorough calculus-based introductory physics course including weekly laboratory work) may begin in PHYS 202 or PHYS 203 after consultation with a member of the physics faculty. Students earning a grade of B- or above in this higher numbered course will receive credit for PHYS 201 and (when appropriate) PHYS 202. 

Because of the substantial overlap of the requirements for the Physics Major and for the major in Engineering Science, a student cannot both major in Engineering Science while also earning a major or minor in Physics.