Overview

Architectural Science is a bridge between design theory and construction practice. Architectural Technologists perform a variety of important functions in many areas of the architectural and building construction fields and are widely recognized by professionals in the construction industry. Graduates find employment as drafters, designers, construction planners, estimators, inspectors, technical sales representatives, and many other exciting areas.

Career Opportunities

Graduates obtain employment in a wide variety of organizations: architectural firms, engineering firms, interior design firms, contractors, design-build construction firms, surveying firms, government agencies, construction product manufacturers, construction material suppliers, inspection and testing firms, specialty consultants, and computer applications consultants.

Program Description

The program in Architectural Science is designed to provide graduates with a practical architectural education combining an understanding of the philosophy of building design with an applied technical knowledge of construction systems and materials. Graduates are prepared with the knowledge and skills to assist in developing drawings and related documentation, constructing architectural models, developing architectural renderings, creating digital images and visualizations, preparing cost estimates and construction planning documentation, and making professional presentations.

Program instruction includes architectural drafting, construction methods and materials, design principles, environmental systems, building systems, building codes, structural principles, project management, sustainability, and professional presentations.

Overview

Civil engineers design a better world in which to live. They design, build, and maintain our nation’s infrastructure including: roads and bridges; buildings and foundations; water supply and waste-water facilities; stormwater management systems; and environmental protection facilities.

The mission of the civil engineering program is to prepare students for professional engineering and management positions in all phases of civil engineering projects. The program provides a broad educational background with a foundation in basic engineering and business principles. These basic skills are complemented by advanced topics in engineering design, management, finance, computer applications, and real world civil engineering experiences throughout the baccalaureate degree program. The civil engineering program at WKU focuses on construction, geotechnical engineering, construction materials, structures, surveying, and hydrology.

The teaching philosophy of this program focuses on project-based learning. This is achieved by placing competent, practicing engineers in the classroom as professors, engaging students in the practice of civil engineering through hands-on class projects, and involving students in faculty consulting and applied research activities. Real engineering projects often serve as class projects. Project sites and professional engineering and construction management firm offices often serve as classrooms.

The curriculum requires a minimum of 62-63 technical specialty hours, completion of pre-major courses, additional 32 semester hours of math and science requirements, and completion of Colonnade general education hours.

The WKU Civil Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Civil Engineering Program Educational Objectives

The program achieves its mission by focusing on specific educational objectives. A few years after graduation, WKU CE graduates are expected to have the following characteristics:

Objective 1: Graduates attain positions of Engineer in Responsible Charge on projects in both the public and private sectors and successfully execute projects using technical and managerial skills while demonstrating professional and ethical behavior.
Objective 2: Graduates attain Engineering licensure and other professional certifications as appropriate to their career.
Objective 3: Graduates continue to pursue life-long learning opportunities through advanced degrees and various continuing education endeavors.
Objective 4: Graduates become leaders within their companies, the profession, and other activities.

The CE student outcomes are listed on the program website at https://www.wku.edu/seas/.

Overview

Computer Information Technology (CIT) is an integral part of modern life and business. Careers in the CIT field frequently exceed median pay and future job outlook growth. The CIT program at WKU can help prepare students for many rewarding careers, including:

• Computer Network Architect
• Computer Programmer
• Computer Support Specialist
• Database Administrator
• Information Security Analyst
• Network and Computer Systems Administrator
• Software Developer
• Web Developer

Overview

Computer Science Program Educational Objectives
The program achieves its mission by focusing on specific educational objectives. Within three to five years after graduation, WKU CS graduates are expected to be:               

Objective 1: Attain, contribute to, and advance in a fulfilling professional computing career, utilizing and continuously improving technical skills and non-technical communication, while demonstrating a commitment to ethical computing and social responsibility.
Objective 2: Effectively manage and lead complex computing initiatives, projects, and teams using adaptable leadership skills.

The CS student outcomes are listed on the program website at https://www.wku.edu/seas/.

Overview

Construction Management involves planning, coordination, and control of projects from inception to completion. Construction Managers work out of a main or field office to perform a variety of important functions, including Project Planning, Cost Management, Time Management, Quality Management, Safety Management, and Contract Administration.

Career Opportunities

Graduates obtain employment in a wide variety of organizations, including construction management firms, general contractors, and specialty contractors serving the commercial, industrial, heavy civil, and residential construction sectors. They may choose to become specialists in estimating, scheduling, safety, quality, or field supervision. Typical job titles include project manager, project engineer, office engineer, field engineer, estimator, quantity surveyor, and superintendent, along with many others.

Program Description

The program in Construction Management is designed to provide students with technical and managerial skills needed to assume leading positions in the construction industry. A minor or second major is not required. Course requirements for the major are shown below. Students should consult with an advisor in planning their four-year degree program.

Overview

Electrical engineering touches virtually every aspect of life in the twenty-first century. Electrical engineers are experts in dealing with electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics. Electrical engineers are employed in a variety of industries including:

• Circuits and Electronics
• Communication and Signal Processing
• Electrical Power Systems
• Computer Hardware and Embedded Systems
• Robotics, Control Systems and Automation
• Biomedical Applications
• Automotive and Aerospace Systems
• Manufacturing plants

The mission of our Electrical Engineering Program at WKU is to build a foundation of knowledge in electrical engineering by integrating a variety of project experiences at every level throughout the curriculum. Our program is to be relevant to our region and to produce graduates who can immediately contribute to the profitability of their employer. Our electrical engineering curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics to prepare them for careers as engineers.

The WKU Electrical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Electrical Engineering Program Educational Objectives

The program achieves its mission by focusing on specific educational objectives. A few years after graduation, WKU EE graduates are expected to be:

Objective 1:  Pursuing successful and productive careers;
Objective 2:  Applying their engineering education to address real-world problems;
Objective 3:  Continuing their professional development and engaging in lifelong learning; and
Objective 4:  Emerging as leaders in their companies, professions, and communities.

For detailed information on the electrical engineering program, please see http://wku.edu/seas and/or contact your advisor.

Overview

Technology is defined as any tool or operating system designed to improve the efficiency, quality, and competitiveness of an organization. Engineering Technology Management at Western Kentucky University is a 2+2 program designed specifically for students who currently hold a certificate (with at least 24 hours of technical credit) or an associate of applied science degree from a technical school, two-year college, or four-year institution. The Engineering Technology Management program is a capstone program that provides a two-year management emphasis for those working toward a supervisory position in industry. Graduates are empowered to obtain a position of leadership in business, industry, or workforce development in support of innovation and global competitiveness. Students who transfer to WKU with an applied associate degree (e.g., Associate of Applied Science) receive a 12-hour waiver from the overall 42 hour upper-level course requirement.

Career Opportunities

Graduates obtain employment in a wide variety of positions, some job titles of graduates include: systems integrator, industrial engineer, production manager/specialist, manufacturing engineer, maintenance specialist, quality manager, quality engineer, production engineer, general manager, plant manager, industrial trainer, project manager, systems analyst, shift supervisor, and technology educator.

Program Description

Western Kentucky University provides upper-division hours both in the major and in general education toward the completion of the degree. Students take 33 hours of major courses that includes six (6) hours of upper-division electives approved by the advisor. Majors then take general education or elective courses to fulfill university requirements regarding the following:

• 30 hours minimum in WKU courses
• 42 hours minimum upper-division courses (unless receiving a waiver)
• 120 hours minimum for graduation
• Colonnade Program Requirements
• MATH 116| or equivalent

Overview

This program prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and advanced manufacturing technical skills in support of industrial operations. The major includes instruction in optimization theory, human factors, organizational behavior, industrial processes, industrial planning procedures, systems integration, quality, and project management.  Graduates achieve positions of leadership in business and industry while practicing innovation in the global marketplace.

Program Description

A minor or second major is not required. Course requirements for the major are shown below. Students should consult with an advisor in planning their course schedules and career goals.

Project Lead the Way

The School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) agrees to grant college level credit for secondary school students from certified Project Lead the Way (PLTW) schools who satisfy the following requirements:

First, students must complete the following two (2) PLTW courses with a grade of B or above and a 6 or above on the End of Course college credit exam: 1. Introduction to Engineering Design; and 2. Principles of Engineering

Second, students must complete two (2) of the following PLTW courses with a grade of B or above and a 6 or above on the End of Course college credit exam: Aerospace Engineering; Biological Engineering; Civil Engineering and Architecture; Computer Integrated Manufacturing; Computer Science and Software Engineering; Digital Electronics; Capstone Course – Engineering Design and Development

Third, students must meet the requirements for admission to Western Kentucky University and enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering Technology program within SEAS. Finally, students requesting the credit must provide a written statement from the instructor of the PLTW program and the principal or guidance counselor, stating the student has successfully completed the program with the above specifications. In addition to the written statement, an official transcript should be submitted for verification.

If the previous four conditions are met, the following three (3) courses will be articulated to the student’s Western Kentucky University record:

Overview

Mechanical engineers are involved in designing and building almost everything that is needed in our modern world, from nearly invisible electro-mechanical devices to enormous power generating and distribution systems producing millions of horsepower. Mechanical engineers use scientific principles from the physical world to create a tremendous variety of mechanical and thermal systems. Practicing mechanical engineers use these principles to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain systems that include:

• automobiles and aircraft
• heating and cooling systems
• electric power plants
• specialized materials
• manufacturing plants
• industrial equipment and machinery

Mechanical engineers need a solid understanding of engineering science, which includes mechanics, engineering materials, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. The program at WKU focuses on these sciences as well as design and professional skills necessary for a successful career in mechanical engineering. Our graduates have a strong competitive advantage with their unique background of engineering fundamentals combined with practical knowledge and experience. The mechanical engineering program provides a project-based, learner-driven environment relevant to the needs of modern society. In support of this learning environment, the professional engineering activities of the faculty create opportunities for the students to practice the art and science of contemporary Mechanical Engineering.

The curriculum requires a minimum of 58.5 technical specialty hours, completion of required Colonnade coursework, and 32-33 semester hours of required mathematics and science.

The WKU Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Mechanical Engineering Program Educational Objectives

The mission is achieved by focusing on specific program educational objectives. Within a few years of completing the Mechanical Engineering Program, a graduate will:

Objective 1: Either be contributing to their regions’ economic development through employment in mechanical engineering or related professions, or pursuing advanced credentials.
Objective 2: Occupy leadership roles in their profession, or in their communities, as their career develops
Objective 3: Demonstrate professionalism on diverse teams across a range of varied responsibilities
Objective 4: Be proactive in their professional development and engage in the continuing education needed to maintain and enhance their career.

For detailed information on the mechanical engineering program, please see the “Mechanical Engineering Program Guide” (available at  http://wku.edu/seas ) and/or contact your advisor.

Program Requirements (20 hours)

The following 20 credit-hour program leads to a minor in computer science.

¹

All CS courses counting toward the CS program minor must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.

Program Requirements (21-21.5 hours)

Systems engineering is a robust approach to the design, creation, and operation of systems. The minor requires 21 hours for CE and ME majors and 22 hours for EE majors. Students must complete 12 or 12.5 hours of required courses and choose a minimum of 9 hours from elective courses

The technical elective must incorporate or expand on systems engineering principles as outlined in ENGR 400. Technical elective courses currently meeting this intent include but are not limited to the following: 

Overview

Undergraduate students majoring in civil engineering or post-graduate students with baccalaureate degrees in civil engineering, mining, or agricultural engineering accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) may obtain a Certificate in Land Surveying (reference number 1700) in order to pursue licensure as a professional surveyor in the state of Kentucky by completing the following courses (15 hours) under the program requirements tab.

Post-graduate students with baccalaureate degrees in majors other than civil engineering, mining or agricultural engineering may obtain a Certificate in Land Surveying in order to pursue licensure as a professional surveyor in the state of Kentucky by completing the same courses as listed for the minor in land surveying (26 hours). See minor in land surveying.

Overview

This program is designed to provide post-graduate education for individuals seeking professional careers in computer science. Areas of emphasis are information systems, systems programming, computer networking, and algorithms.

Overview

The Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSEM) offers students Thesis and Non-thesis concentrations. 

The Thesis concentration is for students who plan to pursue additional degrees, such as Ph.D. or who have specific work-related projects that need further exploration. Students who choose the thesis concentration will conduct a research project, which will likely involve several semesters of work.

The Non-thesis concentration is designed to be more flexible and is tailored for students who do not want to conduct a research project. The non-thesis concentration is recommended for working professionals who do not have the time and resources to conduct a research project. Students who choose the non-thesis concentration must take three credits of additional electives and required to take a capstone course.

The MSEM develops leaders to support the needs of the modern world-wide industry. The curriculum enhances both career and personal objectives. Graduates of the program are equipped to manage organization resources, lead technological change, and strategically integrate higher level knowledge within their companies.

The MSEM provides a broad-based core of management competency in business functions, along with a solid understanding of engineering technologies and capabilities. Courses build upon existing technical competency while allowing the student to customize their depth of study in specific management technologies that enhance long-term professional career goals.

All courses can be taken online.