Our engineering studies curriculum provides students with the mathematical and analytical skills that constitute the foundations of engineering, supporting a wide array of fields including mechanical, electrical, civil, and environmental engineering. In addition, the concentration offers practical, applied skills such as working with laboratory instrumentation, design software, and/or fabrication techniques. Completing this concentration in combination with a major in a natural science or math prepares students to pursue graduate work in engineering. To get started in this concentration, begin by taking science courses that fit your interests and math courses based on your math placement.
Typical First-Year Schedule
Fall
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- World Language
- MATH 119 or MATH 120 or MATH 126 or MATH 128
- Science Course of your choosing (Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Environmental Studies)
january term
- PHYS 160: Intro to Engineering Design
Spring
- FYS 120 or WRIT 120 or Conversation Program
- World Language
- Continue Math Sequence
- Science Course
Additional Information
The courses listed above are simply suggestions for how to get started on the concentration. The Physics 160 course over January Term is not a required course, but it counts toward the concentration and serves as a great way for first year students to determine if engineering might be something they enjoy!
The concentration is meant to be compatible with any major, especially science majors. Students should look at the requirements for the major(s) in which they are interested to determine the optimal science class for the first semester. For example, potential biology majors should take the appropriate first course for that major in the first year (Chemistry 122, 125, or Biology 150); an environmental studies potential major can take Environmental Studies 137. Students can begin the required chemistry and physics courses for the concentration in the first, second, or later years.
CREDIT FOR PREVIOUS COURSEWORK
Credit for previous courses is not common, but when appropriate, it is done in consultation with the Registrar and the Director of Engineering Studies.
Placement
Not applicable.
Informational Events
Engineering Studies and Physics Joint Information Session: Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 3 PM Central time at this Zoom link: https://stolaf.zoom.us/j/96585498593?pwd=Mlpxb3BZSVhaUHVCRUM1OVZua3NLdz09
CONTACT INFORMATION
Director of Engineering Studies: Brian Borovsky (borovsky@stolaf.edu), Professor of Physics