Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

The study of electrical and computer engineering technology (ECET) offers a strong education in electrical and electronic systems design, computer programming, microprocessor applications, automation, programmable logic controllers, instrumentation and control, and electrical testing. ECET is different from traditional theory-based electrical engineering degree programs, and also unlike skills-based programs that are focused on repair and maintenance. The applied nature of ECET offers not only working knowledge of the foundational theories of engineering, but also the hands-on laboratory focus that enables students to analyze, design, and implement the many uses of electrical and computer systems. The degree program is industry focused and emphasizes solving real-world problems in the workplace.

You Might Like This Program If...

• You're fascinated by what's inside electrical and computer systems.
• You're interested in knowing how electrical and computer systems work, how to design new systems, and how to test existing systems.
• You're looking for a hands-on applied engineering discipline.
• You're interested in both engineering and computing–and in the application of these two disciplines in solving real-world problems.

This major prepares graduates for careers in such varied areas as electronics, microprocessors, computer hardware and software, communications, instrumentation and control, and power. The major consists of two options, one in Electrical Engineering Technology, the other in Computer Engineering Technology. Both options provide education in applied mathematics, physics, electrical and electronic circuit analysis and design, microprocessors, instrumentation and quality control. The Electrical Engineering Technology option provides specialty education in control theory, communication systems, and power systems. The Computer Engineering Technology option provides specialty education in software development, embedded computer systems, and networking. Both options in the major culminate with a capstone design project involving an actual design or manufacturing problem, often sponsored by industry. Graduates may qualify as engineering technologists working side-by-side with engineers, scientists, and other skilled workers in these capacities. Occupations include electrical and electronic systems design, microprocessor applications, instrumentation and control, computer programming, electrical testing, plant engineering, quality control, management, and technical sales and service.

If you are a first year student applying to Penn State:

Click Apply to start your Penn State application. Before starting, you can also review the Applying Online Worksheet for more details and helpful hints about the application.

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After completing your Academic History, you will need to provide your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR). As you begin the SRAR process, a new window will open allowing you to complete your SRAR. SRAR will focus on your high school coursework. It is important that this step is a complete and accurate representation of your school record. Therefore, have a copy of your secondary school records available as you complete your SRAR. You will need to enter every class and every grade earned for the last three years, as well as those classes in progress.

After completing your SRAR, you will be directed back to the Penn State application in order to complete the Program of Study portion of the application. Here, you will indicate your desired starting semester, your intended program of study, and your starting and ending campus. For further details on how to complete this portion based on your applicant type, please see the steps to apply for first-year students.

After completing this section of the application, you will provide some additional information, an activities resume, and a personal statement. You will be able to paste in this information from other sources, but note that the formatting may not always paste in as intended.

If you are a transfer student applying to Penn State:

All international transfer students will be required to submit official high school transcripts in order to complete the application. International transfer students will not complete the Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) for either their high school or college coursework.

If you have accepted your offer of admission to Penn State:

If you completed SRAR and are accepted to Penn State, please provide the following for grade verification:

• Official transcript from years 9, 10, 11, and 12. If the transcript is issued in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a separate line-by-line English translation.
• Official copy of the Tawjihi, accompanied by a separate line-by-line English translation.

Within the B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology there are two options for emphasis study: Electrical Engineering Technology and Computer Engineering Technology. You'll chose the option that best fits your career aspirations. Penn State Behrend has a comprehensive support system to help you identify and achieve your goals for college and beyond. Meet with your academic adviser often and take advantage of the services offered by the Academic and Career Planning Center beginning in your first semester.

Because of the breadth of experience with both electrical and computer systems, graduates can begin their careers in such areas as electrical and electronic systems design, embedded systems and microcontroller/software applications, automation and process control, field service and application engineering, system integration and testing, quality control, and technical sales and service. Employers of recent Behrend B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology graduates include Rovisys, Process and Data Automation, SKF Aeroengine, GE, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Eriez Magnetics, First Energy, FMC Technologies, Lutron, and Westinghouse.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE ELECTRICAL AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

Opportunities for Graduate Studies

Master's degree programs in engineering or engineering technology are an option for graduates of the B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology. Advanced degree programs delve more deeply into areas of specialization such as embedded systems, automation and process control, software development, networking, and power systems. Or, you can use a master's degree to learn management skills; Penn State Behrend offers a Master of Manufacturing Management (M.M.M) degree program for aspiring organizational leaders.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES

Professional Resources

• ABET
• Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• IEEE Computer Society
• Association for Computing Machinery
• Institution of Engineering and Technology
• Society of Women Engineers
• National Society of Black Engineers