7. Cockrell School of Engineering

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering is one of the most broadly based engineering disciplines. Its field of practice covers the development, design, and control of processes and products that involve molecular change, both chemical and biological, and the operation of such processes. Because many of the products that sustain and improve life are produced by carefully designed and controlled molecular changes, the chemical engineer serves in a wide variety of industries. These industries range from chemical and energy companies to producers of all types of consumer and specialty products, pharmaceuticals, textiles, polymers, advanced materials, and solid-state devices.

Careers are available in industry, government, consulting, and education. Areas of professional work include research and development, operations, technical service, product development, process and plant design, market analysis and development, process control, and pollution abatement.

The objective of the chemical engineering degree program is to prepare students for professional practice in chemically related careers after the bachelor's degree or an advanced degree. Chemical engineering graduates are expected to apply fundamentals of science and engineering to solve problems of analysis and design of components, systems, and processes important in chemical engineering practice and research; demonstrate interpersonal skills required to lead and/or participate effectively in interdisciplinary projects; recognize the importance of lifelong learning in meeting professional and personal goals so they can be successful in their chosen profession, including graduate school; exhibit effectiveness in communication skills; and articulate and practice professional, ethical, environmental, and societal responsibilities, and value different global and cultural perspectives. To meet the program objective, the faculty has designed a rigorous, demanding, and state-of-the-art curriculum that integrates lectures and laboratory experience in basic science, mathematics, engineering science, engineering design, and the liberal arts.

Curriculum

Course requirements are divided into three categories: basic sequence courses, major sequence courses, and other required courses. Enrollment in major sequence courses is restricted to students who have received credit for all of the basic sequence courses and have been admitted to the major sequence by the Cockrell School Admissions Committee. Enrollment in other required courses is not restricted by completion of the basic sequence.

Courses used to fulfill technical and nontechnical elective requirements must be approved by the chemical engineering faculty before the student enrolls in them. Courses that fulfill the social science requirement and the fine arts/humanities requirement are listed earlier in this chapter.

courses	sem hrs
Basic Sequence Courses
Chemical Engineering 210, 317 Chemistry 302, 204, 118K, 318M Mathematics 408C, 408D, 427K Physics 303K, 303L, 103M, 103N Rhetoric and Writing 306	37
Major Sequence Courses
Chemical Engineering 322, 333T, 348, 350, 353, 253K, 253M, 354, 360, 363, 264, 372, 473K	37
Approved technical area electives in chemical engineering	6
Other Required Courses
Biology 311C Chemistry 118L, 318N, 353, 153K Electrical Engineering 331 English 316K	17
Chemistry elective with a laboratory experience chosen from Chemistry 431, 354 and 154K, 154K and 354L, and 455; or Chemical Engineering 179 and Chemistry 339K, 354, or 369[6]	4
Approved advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology elective	3
American government, including Texas government	6
American history	6
Approved fine arts or humanities elective	3
Approved social science elective	3
Approved technical area electives	6
minimum required 128

Honors Program

Chemical engineering students who maintain a grade point average of at least 3.50 may take the honors research course, Chemical Engineering 679H. In this course the student performs research over two consecutive semesters under the supervision of a faculty member, makes two oral presentations, and writes a thesis. Chemical Engineering 679H may be used to fulfill either the approved area electives requirement or the approved area electives in chemical engineering requirement.

Technical Area Options

Because of the broad training in natural sciences and engineering received by the chemical engineer, opportunities are provided for students also to develop particular talents and interests in one or two areas of emphasis. Each student must complete twelve semester hours in one of the following areas or six semester hours in each of two areas, including at least two chemical engineering courses. The technical area courses should be selected in consultation with a faculty adviser and must be approved by the department chair. The courses listed in each area do not constitute a complete list of technical area courses but illustrate the types of courses that are generally suitable for a given area.

Students with a grade point average of at least 3.00 who are interested in seeking an advanced degree in chemical engineering are encouraged to discuss their plans with the graduate adviser or another faculty member. These students are encouraged to take at least one advanced mathematics course among their electives. They should also inquire about undergraduate research positions in the department.

For all areas, Chemical Engineering 325L and 377K may be counted as chemical engineering electives only with the approval of the student's academic adviser. Chemical Engineering 377K may be counted only once toward the degree.

Area 1, Process Analysis and Control

The chemical process industry is one of the most advanced in the applications of modern control techniques and computer technology. These rapidly developing techniques are of great utility to the practicing engineer.

• CHE 341, Design for Environment
• CHE 342, Chemical Engineering Economics and Business Analysis
• CHE 356, Optimization: Theory and Practice
• CHE 359, Energy Technology and Policy
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control
• E E 370K, Computer Control Systems
• E E 379K, Topic: Statistical Quality Control
• M E 335, Engineering Statistics
• M E 348D, Introduction to Mechatronics II
• M E 366L, Operations Research Models
• Upper-division mathematics course

Area 2, Materials Engineering

Polymers, semiconductors, and other advanced materials make possible many conveniences of modern life. Chemical engineers can assume a creative role in developing, manufacturing, and applying these materials to a range of purposes.

• CH 341, Special Topics in Laboratory Chemistry
• CH 354, Quantum Chemistry and Spectroscopy
• CH 354L, Physical Chemistry II
• CH 367L, Macromolecular Chemistry
• CH 376K, Advanced Analytical Chemistry
• CHE 322M, Molecular Thermodynamics
• CHE 323, Chemical Engineering for Microelectronics
• CHE 325L, Cooperative Engineering
• CHE 355, Introduction to Polymers
• CHE 377K, Undergraduate Research Project
• CHE 379, Topic: Computation Methods with Applications to Materials
• CHE 379, Topic: Polymer Kinetics and Reaction Engineering
• CHE 679H, Undergraduate Honors Thesis
• E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices
• M E 349, Corrosion Engineering
• M E 359, Materials Selection
• M E 378C, Electroceramics
• M E 378S, Structural Ceramics
• PHY 338K, Electronic Techniques
• PHY 355, Modern Physics for Engineers

Area 3, Environmental Engineering

Chemical engineers are uniquely qualified to contribute to the solution of environmental problems and to design processes and products that minimize environmental hazards.

• BIO 311D, Introductory Biology II
• BIO 326R, General Microbiology
• BIO 339, Metabolism and Biochemistry of Microorganisms
• C E 341, Introduction to Environmental Engineering
• C E 342, Water and Wastewater Treatment Engineering
• C E 346K, Hazardous Waste Management
• C E 364, Design of Wastewater and Water Treatment Facilities
• C E 369L, Air Pollution Engineering
• C E 370K, Environmental Sampling and Analysis
• CHE 322M, Molecular Thermodynamics
• CHE 339, Introduction to Biochemical Engineering
• CHE 339P, Introduction to Biological Physics
• CHE 341, Design for Environment
• CHE 357, Technology and Its Impact on the Environment
• CHE 359, Energy Technology and Policy
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control

Area 4, Process Engineering

The design and operation of processes is a major function of chemical engineers that is essential to any successful product. Competence in design, economics, fault detection, optimization, control, and simulation is essential.

• ARE 323K, Project Management and Economics
• CHE 341, Design for Environment
• CHE 342, Chemical Engineering Economics and Business Analysis
• CHE 355, Introduction to Polymers
• CHE 356, Optimization: Theory and Practice
• CHE 357, Technology and Its Impact on the Environment
• CHE 359, Energy Technology and Policy
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control
• M E 335, Engineering Statistics
• M E 353, Engineering Finance
• PHY 338K, Electronic Techniques

Area 5, Product Engineering

Chemical engineers are frequently involved in the development of new consumer and specialty products, an assignment that requires not only technical skills but also an understanding of the principles of successful marketing and quality control.

• CHE 341, Design for Environment
• CHE 342, Chemical Engineering Economics and Business Analysis
• CHE 355, Introduction to Polymers
• CHE 357, Technology and Its Impact on the Environment
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control
• I B 378, International Business Operations
• M E 335, Engineering Statistics
• M E 353, Engineering Finance
• MKT 320F, Foundations of Marketing
• MKT 460, Information and Analysis

Area 6, Biomedical Engineering and Premedical/Predental Program

The biomedical option is designed for students who have an interest in the life sciences in addition to the physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Courses in this area are applicable to the entrance requirements for most medical schools, dental schools, and graduate programs in biomedical engineering. For additional information, contact the undergraduate office in the Department of Chemical Engineering.

• BIO 311D, Introductory Biology II
• BIO 320, Cell Biology
• BIO 325, Genetics
• BIO 326R, General Microbiology
• BIO 365R, Vertebrate Physiology I
• BIO 365S, Vertebrate Physiology II
• BME 352, Engineering Biomaterials
• BME 353, Transport Phenomena in Living Systems
• BME 365R, Quantitative Engineering Physiology I
• CH 339K, Biochemistry I
• CHE 322M, Molecular Thermodynamics
• CHE 339, Introduction to Biochemical Engineering
• CHE 339P, Introduction to Biological Physics
• CHE 355, Introduction to Polymers
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control
• E E 374K, Biomedical Electronics
• M E 354, Introduction to Biomechanical Engineering

Area 7, Biotechnology

The discoveries in the biological sciences that placed large areas of these sciences on a molecular basis provide great potential for new products to improve living standards and health. Those with proper training in the basics of chemical engineering and in application techniques will make major contributions to commercial development of such products.

• BIO 311D, Introductory Biology II
• BIO 325, Genetics
• BIO 326R, General Microbiology
• BME 352, Engineering Biomaterials
• BME 353, Transport Phenomena in Living Systems
• BME 365R, Quantitative Engineering Physiology I
• CH 339K, Biochemistry I
• CH 339L, Biochemistry II
• CH 370, Physical Methods for Biochemistry
• CHE 322M, Molecular Thermodynamics
• CHE 339, Introduction to Biochemical Engineering
• CHE 339P, Introduction to Biological Physics
• CHE 355, Introduction to Polymers
• CHE 357, Technology and Its Impact on the Environment
• CHE 376K, Process Evaluation and Quality Control

Suggested Arrangement of Courses

courses	sem hrs
First year, fall
CH 302, Principles of Chemistry II	3
CHE 102, Introduction to Chemical Engineering (optional)[7]	1
CHE 210, Introduction to Computing	2
M 408C, Differential and Integral Calculus	4
RHE 306, Rhetoric and Writing	3
Social science elective	3
total 15 or 16[7]
First year, spring
BIO 311C, Introductory Biology I	3
CH 204, Introduction to Chemical Practice	2
M 408D, Sequences, Series, and Multivariable Calculus	4
PHY 303K, Engineering Physics I	3
PHY 103M, Laboratory for Physics 303K	1
American government	3
total 16
Second year, fall
CH 118K, Organic Chemistry Laboratory	1
CH 318M, Organic Chemistry I	3
CHE 317, Introduction to Chemical Engineering Analysis	3
M 427K, Advanced Calculus for Applications I	4
PHY 303L, Engineering Physics II	3
PHY 103N, Laboratory for Physics 303L	1
total 15
Second year, spring
CH 118L, Organic Chemistry Laboratory	1
CH 318N, Organic Chemistry II	3
CH 353, Physical Chemistry I	3
CHE 348, Numerical Methods in Chemical Engineering and Problem Solving	3
CHE 353, Transport Phenomena	3
E 316K, Masterworks of Literature	3
total 16
Third year, fall
CH 153K, Physical Chemistry Laboratory	1
CHE 322, Thermodynamics	3
CHE 333T, Engineering Communication	3
CHE 253K, Applied Statistics	2
CHE 354, Transport Processes	3
Chemistry elective	4
total 16
Third year, spring
CHE 253M, Measurement, Control, and Data Analysis Laboratory	2
CHE 363, Separation Processes and Mass Transfer	3
E E 331, Electrical Circuits, Electronics, and Machinery	3
American history	3
Approved technical area course	3
Fine arts/humanities elective	3
total 17
Fourth year, fall
CHE 350, Chemical Engineering Materials	3
CHE 264, Chemical Engineering Process and Projects Laboratory	2
CHE 372, Chemical Reactor Analysis and Design	3
Approved chemical engineering area course	3
American government	3
Approved advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology elective	3
total 17
Fourth year, spring
CHE 360, Process Control	3
CHE 473K, Process Design and Operations	4
American history	3
Approved chemical engineering area course	3
Approved technical area course	3
total 16

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Engineering is the application of scientific principles and technical knowledge to real-world problems. Civil engineering is the segment of the engineering profession that strives to provide for the basic needs of humanity. The civil engineer is involved with the physical environment through the planning, design, construction, and operation of building and housing systems, transportation systems, and systems for the protection and use of air and water resources.

The civil engineering student has the opportunity to obtain a broad background in mathematics and the physical sciences and their applications to all areas of civil engineering. This flexible curriculum allows the student to elect eighteen semester hours of approved technical coursework to emphasize the areas of civil engineering of most interest to the student. In addition, courses in the humanities and social sciences are included.

To excel as a civil engineer, a student should have an aptitude for mathematics and science, an interest in the practical application of technical knowledge to societal problems, the motivation to study and prepare for engineering practice, and the desire to be a professional. Civil engineering graduates of the University may seek a wide variety of positions in planning, design, and construction with government agencies, industry, and private consulting firms. Those who plan to pursue graduate work in engineering, or in other professions such as business, medicine, law, or journalism, have an excellent base on which to build.

Graduates of the civil engineering program are expected to (1) understand the historical context, multidisciplinary nature, and state of the art of civil engineering in addressing contemporary issues in society; and stay informed of emerging technologies and the challenges facing the profession in the future, (2) demonstrate strong reasoning and quantitative skills in order to identify, structure, and formulate civil engineering-related problems, as well as design creative solutions that reflect social, economic, and environmental sensitivities, (3) display a spirit of curiosity and lifelong learning and conduct themselves in a professionally responsible and ethical manner, and (4) exhibit strong communication, interpersonal, and resource management skills so that they can become leaders in the civil engineering profession and contribute to the enhancement of life and community. To meet these objectives, the faculty has designed a curriculum in which students may learn how to apply mathematics, science, and empirical observation to design the fundamental elements of civil engineering systems. Along with these basic skills, students are expected to use teamwork skills in a design environment that encourages multidisciplinary learning, imparts depth in technical knowledge, and acknowledges the broader societal impact of civil engineering design. Students are also expected to be able to communicate civil engineering solutions to a diverse audience in a professional and ethical manner. Overall, the civil engineering curriculum has the scientific content, the technical rigor, the flexibility, and the breadth to provide students with an academic environment that fosters lifelong learning in a constantly evolving profession.

Curriculum

Course requirements are divided into three categories: basic sequence courses, major sequence courses, and other required courses. Enrollment in major sequence courses is restricted to students who have received credit for all of the basic sequence courses and have been admitted to the major sequence by the Cockrell School Admissions Committee. Enrollment in other required courses is not restricted by completion of the basic sequence.

Courses used to fulfill technical and nontechnical elective requirements must be approved by the civil engineering faculty before the student enrolls in them. Courses that fulfill the social science requirement and the fine arts/humanities requirement are listed earlier in this chapter.

courses	sem hrs
Basic Sequence Courses
Chemistry 301, 302 Civil Engineering 301, 311K, 311S, 314K, 319F Engineering Mechanics 306, 311M, 319 Mathematics 408C, 408D Mechanical Engineering 210 Physics 303K, 303L, 103M, 103N Rhetoric and Writing 306	51
Major Sequence Courses
Base level courses: t Architectural Engineering 323K t Civil Engineering 321, 329, 341, 356, 357, 171P	19
Civil Engineering 333T	3
Level I electives	15
Level II elective	3
Other Required Courses
English 316K Mathematics 427K Mechanical Engineering 320	10
American government, including Texas government	6
American history	6
Approved fine arts or humanities elective	3
Approved social science elective	3
Approved science elective	3
Approved mathematics, science, or engineering science elective	3
minimum required 125

Level I and Level II Technical Electives

The civil engineering curriculum does not require the student to declare a specific technical area option. However, for the guidance of students with particular interests, level I electives in civil engineering are listed in areas of specialization. The fifteen semester hours of level I electives must be chosen from the following civil engineering and architectural engineering courses; in special cases, with the written permission of the department chair, this requirement may be relaxed, provided the student demonstrates in advance that the courses to be substituted for civil engineering or architectural engineering courses are part of a consistent educational plan. To provide a broad general background, at least one technical elective from each of three different areas of specialization must be included in each student's program.

To assure a background in design, each student must take at least one technical area option level II elective. Level II electives may be substituted for technical area option level I electives, but the requirement of at least one technical elective from each of three different areas of specialization still applies.

The following lists reflect current course offerings and are subject to change by the faculty. Current lists are available in the departmental undergraduate office.

Level I Electives

Construction Engineering and Project Management

• ARE 350, Advanced CAD Procedures
• ARE 358, Cost Estimating in Building Construction
• ARE 366, Contracts, Liability, and Ethics

Construction Materials

• C E 351, Concrete Materials
• C E 366K, Design of Bituminous Mixtures

Environmental Engineering

• C E 342, Water and Wastewater Treatment Engineering
• C E 346, Solid Waste Engineering and Management
• C E 346K, Hazardous Waste Management
• C E 369L, Air Pollution Engineering
• C E 370K, Environmental Sampling and Analysis

Geotechnical Engineering

• C E 375, Earth Slopes and Retaining Structures

Structures

• ARE 345K, Masonry Engineering
• ARE 362L, Structural Design in Wood
• C E 331, Reinforced Concrete Design
• C E 335, Elements of Steel Design
• C E 363, Advanced Structural Analysis

Transportation

• C E 367P, Pavement Design and Performance
• C E 367T, Traffic Engineering

Water Resources

• C E 358, Introductory Ocean Engineering
• C E 374K, Hydrology
• C E 374L, Groundwater Hydraulics

Level II Electives (Design)

Environmental Engineering

• C E 364, Design of Wastewater and Water Treatment Facilities

Geotechnical Engineering

• C E 360K, Foundation Engineering

Structures

• C E 362M, Advanced Reinforced Concrete Design
• C E 362N, Advanced Steel Design

Transportation

• C E 367, Highway Engineering
• C E 376, Airport Design

Water Resources

• C E 365K, Hydraulic Engineering Design

Suggested Arrangement of Courses

courses	sem hrs
First year, fall
C E 301, Civil Engineering Systems	3
CH 301, Principles of ChemistryI	3
M 408C, Differential and Integral Calculus	4
M E 210, Engineering Design Graphics	2
Social science or fine arts/humanities elective[8]	3
total 15
First year, spring
CH 302, Principles of Chemistry II	3
E M 306, Statics	3
M 408D, Sequences, Series, and Multivariable Calculus	4
PHY 303K, Engineering Physics I	3
PHY 103M, Laboratory for Physics 303K	1
RHE 306, Rhetoric and Writing	3
total 17
Second year, fall
C E 311K, Introduction to Computer Methods	3
E M 311M, Dynamics	3
E M 319, Mechanics of Solids	3
PHY 303L, Engineering Physics II	3
PHY 103N, Laboratory for Physics 303L	1
American government	3
total 16
Second year, spring
C E 311S, Elementary Statistics for Civil Engineers	3
C E 314K, Properties and Behavior of Engineering Materials	3
C E 319F, Elementary Mechanics of Fluids	3
E 316K, Masterworks of Literature	3
M 427K, Advanced Calculus for Applications I	4
total 16
Third year, fall
M E 320, Applied Thermodynamics	3
Base level courses	9
American history	3
total 15
Third year, spring
C E 333T, Engineering Communication	3
Base level courses	9
Approved science elective	3
total 15
Fourth year, fall
Approved mathematics, science, or engineering science elective	3
Level I electives	9
American history	3
total 15
Fourth year, spring
C E 171P, Engineering Professionalism	1
Level I electives	6
Level II elective	3
American government	3
Social science or fine arts/humanities elective[8]	3
total 16

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Students seeking the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering pursue one of two curricula--electrical engineering or computer engineering. The electrical engineering curriculum is accredited in electrical engineering by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The computer engineering curriculum is accredited by ABET in both electrical engineering and computer engineering. Both curricula contain the fundamentals of electrical engineering and computer engineering; they differ in their core and technical area requirements in order to suit different career objectives.

The curricula in electrical engineering and computer engineering are designed to educate students in the fundamentals of engineering, which are built upon a foundation of mathematics, science, communication, and the liberal arts. Graduates should be equipped to advance their knowledge while contributing professionally to a rapidly changing technology. Areas in which electrical and computer engineers contribute significantly are computer and communication systems; control, robotic, and manufacturing systems; power and energy systems; biomedical instrumentation systems; electronic materials; and device design and manufacturing. Typical career paths of graduates include design, development, management, consulting, teaching, and research. Many graduates seek further education in law, medicine, business, or engineering.

The core requirements of the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering provide a foundation of engineering fundamentals. Students then build on the core requirements by choosing a primary and a secondary technical area and a mathematics or science technical elective; students following the electrical engineering curriculum also choose an advanced laboratory course. Once the primary technical area is chosen, the student is assigned a faculty adviser with expertise in that area to help the student select technical area courses that are appropriate to his or her career and educational goals. The curricula thus ensure breadth through the core courses and the choice of a technical elective; technical area coursework provides additional depth.

Program Outcomes

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering graduates should be able to

• Use current engineering tools for design, analysis, and communication of technical products.
• Use critical thinking to analyze and solve problems in electrical and computer engineering by applying fundamental knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering; experimental techniques; and appropriate computational methods.
• Design and analyze electrical and computer hardware and software components, electrical circuits, signal transmission and conditioning systems, and processes that meet technical, safety, environmental, and economic specifications.
• Prepare and deliver persuasive oral and written communication using current presentation tools.
• Work in collaborative, multidisciplinary teams.
• Understand ethical business and engineering practice in the context of social and economic realities as well as other contemporary issues.

In addition, graduates of the electrical engineering curriculum should be able to design and analyze at least two types of electrical systems, such as power transmission systems, communication systems, signal processing systems, control systems, electronic devices, and measurement systems. Graduates of the computer engineering curriculum should be able to design and analyze at least two types of digital systems, such as general purpose software, system software, computer interfacing systems, computers, and combinational and sequential digital circuits.

Program Educational Objectives

Within a few years of graduation, electrical and computer engineering graduates should

• Contribute to the economic development of Texas and beyond through the ethical practice of electrical and computer engineering in industry and public service.
• Exhibit leadership in technical or business activity through engineering ability, communication skills, and knowledge of contemporary and global issues.
• Continue to educate themselves through professional study and personal research.
• Be prepared for admission to, and to excel in, the best graduate programs in the world.
• Design systems to collect, encode, store, transmit, and process energy and information, and to evaluate system performance, either individually or in teams.
• Use their engineering ability and creative potential to create technology that will improve the quality of life in society.

Curricula

Course requirements are divided into three categories: basic sequence courses, major sequence courses, and other required courses. Enrollment in major sequence courses is restricted to students who have passed the basic sequence courses with acceptable performance. Enrollment in other required courses is not restricted by completion of the basic sequence.

Courses used to fulfill technical area, math or science technical elective, and other elective requirements must be approved by the electrical and computer engineering faculty before the student enrolls in them. Courses that fulfill the social science requirement and the fine arts/humanities requirement are listed earlier in this chapter.

Electrical Engineering Curriculum

courses	sem hrs
Basic Sequence Courses
Electrical Engineering 302, 306, 411, 312, 313, 316, 319K, 322C English 316K Mathematics 408C, 408D, 427K, 340L Physics 303K, 303L, 103M, 103N Rhetoric and Writing 306	54
Major Sequence Courses
Electrical Engineering 325, 333T, 438, 339, 351K, 362K, 364D, 366, and one of the following: 464C, 464G, 464H, 464K, 464R	29
Approved technical area courses	18 or 19[9]
Approved upper-division technical elective	3
Other Required Courses
American government, including Texas government	6
American history	6
Approved fine arts or humanities elective	3
Approved social science elective	3
Approved elective	3
minimum required 125 or 126

Computer Engineering Curriculum

courses	sem hrs
Basic Sequence Courses
Electrical Engineering 302, 306, 411, 312, 313, 316, 319K, 322C English 316K Mathematics 408C, 408D, 325K, 427K Physics 303K, 303L, 103M, 103N Rhetoric and Writing 306	54
Major Sequence Courses
Electrical Engineering 325, 333T, 438, 339, 345L, 351K, 364D, 366, and one of the following: 464C, 464G, 464H, 464K, 464R	29
Approved technical area courses	18
Approved upper-division technical elective	3
Other Required Courses
American government, including Texas government	6
American history	6
Approved fine arts or humanities elective	3
Approved social science elective	3
Approved elective	3
minimum required 125

Upper-Division Technical Electives

Eight electives are included in the major sequence: six approved technical area courses, an approved upper-division technical elective, and an additional approved elective. At least one of these electives must be an advanced laboratory course, and at least one must be an approved mathematics or science course.

The mathematics or science elective is designed to strengthen a student's foundation in mathematics or science. This foundation will help graduates adapt to technological change throughout their careers and be better prepared for graduate study in science and engineering. This course must be in one of the following fields of study: mathematics, astronomy, biology, chemistry, or physics. The student may not use a course in one of these fields that is designed for nonmajors.

Technical Area Options

Both electrical engineering and computer engineering students must choose a primary and a secondary technical area. Electrical engineering students must choose their primary technical area from the electrical engineering technical areas listed below; computer engineering students must choose theirs from the computer engineering technical areas. For the secondary technical area, students may choose any technical area, including academic enrichment.

For all technical areas, the student must complete at least three courses in the area on the letter-grade basis. A course may not be counted toward more than one technical area.

Electrical engineering students may count one of the following advanced laboratory courses toward a technical area requirement: Electrical Engineering 321K, 440, 345L, 345S, 362L, 368L, 371C, 372L, and 374L.

Academic Enrichment Technical Area

A student may choose the academic enrichment technical area as his or her secondary technical area. For this area, the student selects nine hours of coursework to support his or her personal or career goals. Before registering for these courses, the student must prepare a career plan statement and a list of relevant electives; this plan must be approved by the undergraduate adviser.

These electives may include traditional upper-division technical courses in electrical engineering and other engineering fields; courses in other fields at the University, such as business, economics, communication, music, and philosophy; or research done with a faculty member in Electrical Engineering 360, Special Problems in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The courses must be completed in residence; courses in an approved study abroad program require the approval of the undergraduate adviser. The nine hours must include at least six hours of upper-division coursework; they may include Electrical Engineering 325L, Cooperative Engineering,or up to three hours in Electrical Engineering 125S, Internship in Electrical and Computer Engineering, but not both.

Electrical Engineering Technical Areas

Biomedical Engineering

Electrical engineers working in biomedical engineering have traditionally been involved in the design and analysis of electronic instruments and therapeutic devices, collection and analysis of biomedical signals and data, and interactions between tissues and electromagnetic fields. Typical medical instruments include biopotential amplifiers (ECG, EMG, and EEG signals), stimulators of electrically excitable tissues (including pacemakers), defibrillators, and devices to measure physical variables such as temperature, pressure, flow, and tissue impedance and admittance. Therapeutic devices include surgical lasers and radio frequency devices and radio frequency, microwave, and ultrasound diathermy. Students should choose the biomedical engineering area if they are interested in applying their electrical engineering expertise to patient care or biological research. Graduates should be prepared for graduate study and for career opportunities in industrial board-level (or chip-level) circuit design and in information and signal processing applications.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 374K, Biomedical Electronics

2. One of the following laboratory courses:

   • BME 357, Biomedical Imaging Modalities
   • E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
   • E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
   • E E 374L, Applications of Biomedical Engineering

3. One course from the following list:

   • BME 365R, Quantitative Engineering Physiology I
   • BME 365S, Quantitative Engineering Physiology II
   • E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
   • E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
   • E E 347, Modern Optics
   • E E 351M, Digital Signal Processing
   • E E 374L, Applications of Biomedical Engineering

Communications and Networking

Communications and networking broadly encompasses the principles underlying the design and implementation of systems for information transmission. The field considers how information is represented, compressed, and transmitted on wired and wireless links and how communication networks can be, and are, designed and operated. A student who chooses this technical area should recognize that communications and networking is a broad application domain where many engineering tools come into play: from circuit design for wireless phones to embedded network processors to system and application software for networked systems.

Students must complete three of the following courses:

• E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
• E E 360K, Introduction to Digital Communications
• E E 371C, Wireless Communications Laboratory
• E E 371M, Communication Systems
• E E 372L, Network Engineering Laboratory
• E E 372N, Telecommunication Networks
• E E 372S, Cryptography and Network Security
• E E 379K, Topic 15: Information Theory
• M 362M, Introduction to Stochastic Processes
• M 365C, Real Analysis I

Electromagnetic Engineering

This technical area exposes students to different aspects of applied electromagnetics, including antennas, radio wave propagation, microwave and radio frequency circuits and transmission structures, optical components and lasers, and engineering acoustics. A student should choose the electromagnetic engineering area if he or she is interested in engineering that involves the physical layer in modern communication and radar systems. Graduates are well positioned for jobs in antenna design and testing, propagation channel characterization, microwave and radio frequency circuit design, electromagnetic emission testing from electronic devices and systems, radar system design and development, optical telecommunication, optical information and signal processing systems, and component design and development.

Students must complete three courses.

1. At least one must be chosen from the following list:

   • E E 325K, Antennas and Wireless Propagation
   • E E 347, Modern Optics
   • E E 363M, Microwave and Radio Frequency Engineering

2. The remaining courses (if any) must be chosen from the following list:

   • E E 321K, Mixed Signal and Circuits Laboratory
   • E E 348, Laser and Optical Engineering
   • E E 361R, Radio Frequency Circuit Design
   • E E 363N, Engineering Acoustics
   • M 427L, Advanced Calculus for Applications II

Electronics

Electronics involves the design and analysis of the circuits that provide the functionality of a system. The types of circuits that students encounter include analog and digital integrated circuits, radio frequency circuits, mixed signal (combination of analog and digital) circuits, power electronics, and biomedical electronics. A student should choose the electronics area if he or she is interested in chip-level integrated circuit design, as opposed to system-level design, and in career opportunities in either chip-level circuit layout, analysis, and design or circuit design management.

Students must complete three of the following courses:

• E E 321K, Mixed Signal and Circuits Laboratory
• E E 338K, Electronic Circuits II
• E E 338L, Analog Integrated Circuit Design
• E E 360S, Digital Integrated Circuit Design
• E E 361R, Radio Frequency Circuit Design
• E E 362L, Power Electronics
• E E 374K, Biomedical Electronics
• E E 379K, Topic: Development of a Solar Car for NASC
• M 346, Applied Linear Algebra

Electronic Materials and Devices

Within electronic materials and devices, students learn about the materials and devices used in modern electronic and optoelectronic systems. With a heavy emphasis on semiconductors, courses in this area include the fundamentals of charge transport and interactions with light. Devices studied begin with p-n junctions and transistors, the building blocks of integrated circuits. Later courses concentrate on semiconductor lasers and detectors used in optoelectronics. With exposure to the topics in this area, students are well positioned to work in a wide variety of areas that rely on semiconductor technology, such as computers, telecommunications, the automotive industry, and consumer electronics.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 440, Microelectronics Fabrication Techniques

2. Two of the following courses:

   • E E 334K, Theory of Engineering Materials
   • E E 338L, Analog Integrated Circuit Design
   • E E 347, Modern Optics
   • E E 348, Laser and Optical Engineering
   • E E 360S, Digital Integrated Circuit Design
   • PHY 355, Modern Physics for Engineers

Power Systems and Energy Conversion

This area provides the foundation for a career in electric power systems, generation, grid operation, motors and drives, and renewable energy sources. Power systems involves the study and design of reliable and economic electric power systems, including both traditional and renewable resources; energy conversion involves conversion to and from electrical energy, including the study and design of electrical machines and the conversion of various sources of energy into electrical energy.

Students must complete three of the following courses:

• E E 341, Electric Drives and Machines
• E E 362L, Power Electronics
• E E 362Q, Power Quality and Harmonics
• E E 368L, Power Systems Apparatus and Laboratory
• E E 369, Power Systems Engineering
• E E 379K, Topic: Development of a Solar Car for NASC
• E E 379K, Topic: Renewable Energy and Power Systems

Premedical

The premedical technical area is designed to allow students preparing for medical school to count some of their premedical requirements toward the electrical engineering degree.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 374K, Biomedical Electronics

2. One of the following laboratory courses:

   • E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
   • E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
   • E E 374L, Applications of Biomedical Engineering

3. One of the following courses:

   • BIO 325, Genetics
   • BIO 365R, Vertebrate Physiology I
   • CH 310M, Organic Chemistry I
   • CH 310N, Organic Chemistry II

Robotics and Control

The focus of this technical area is robotics and computer controlled systems. The field of robotics includes designing precession control systems. Today, all robots have highly reliable microcontrollers or computers used as controllers. Control systems are present in many forms of transportation, including automobiles, aircraft, and ships, and in manufacturing plants, especially in technologically advanced areas like integrated circuit fabrication. Students with a background in robotics and control will be prepared to seek employment involving design and management of projects within these industries.

Students must complete three of the following courses:

• E E 345L, Microprocessor Applications and Organization[10]
• E E 362K, Introduction to Automatic Control[11]
• E E 370, Automatic Control II
• E E 370K, Computer Control Systems
• E E 370N, Introduction to Robotics and Mechatronics
• E E 371D, Introduction to Neural Networks
• M 365C, Real Analysis I
• M 374, Fourier and Laplace Transforms

Signal and Image Processing

Signal and image processing involves the improvement of signals, images, and videos by digital means. The reasons for improvement include analysis, information extraction, communication, display, detection, and recognition. Students who have exposure to this technical area will be well positioned for software and hardware jobs in digital signal processing and digital image processing.

Students must complete three of the following courses:

• E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
• E E 351M, Digital Signal Processing
• E E 371C, Wireless Communications Laboratory
• E E 371D, Introduction to Neural Networks
• E E 371R, Digital Image and Video Processing
• M 362M, Introduction to Stochastic Processes
• M 365C, Real Analysis I

Computer Engineering Technical Areas

Computer Design

Computer design involves understanding the operation and design of computers on many levels, including the instruction set, microarchitecture, logic design, and lowlevel system software. The student who chooses computer design as a technical area will be well positioned to join the microprocessor design industry as a logic designer or a circuit designer. After a good deal of experience on the job, the student should be well positioned to become the chief architect of a new design.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
2. E E 360N, Computer Architecture

3. One of the following courses:

   • E E 345L, Microprocessor Applications and Organization[12]
   • E E 360C, Algorithms
   • E E 360M, Digital Systems Design Using VHDL
   • E E 360R, Computer-Aided Integrated Circuit Design
   • C S 375, Compilers

Embedded Systems

Embedded systems are combinations of software and hardware designed to perform specific functions. These systems may stand alone, or they may be integral parts of a larger system. Within this technical area, students are exposed to logic design, programming, computer architecture, systems design, and digital signal processing. Exposure to these topics positions students for jobs with small, medium, and large companies. These jobs involve defining, designing, and fabricating application-specific processors and computers in areas such as automotive electronics, consumer devices, and telecommunications.

Students must complete three of the following courses, including at least one course in group 1 and one course in group 2:

1. Group 1, Embedded Hardware:

   • E E 360M, Digital Systems Design Using VHDL
   • E E 360R, Computer-Aided Integrated Circuit Design

2. Group 2, Embedded Software:

   • E E 345L, Microprocessor Applications and Organization[12]
   • E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
   • E E 345S, Real-Time Digital Signal Processing Laboratory
   • E E 360P, Concurrent and Distributed Systems

3. At-Large Courses in Embedded Systems:

   • E E 360C, Algorithms
   • E E 360N, Computer Architecture

Software Engineering: Foundations

Courses in this area cover the engineering life cycle of software systems, including requirement analysis and specification, design, construction/programming, testing, deployment, maintenance, and evolution. Area courses are intended to teach students theory, practical methods, and tools for designing, building, delivering, maintaining, and evolving software to meet stakeholder requirements.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 360C, Algorithms
2. E E 360F, Software Engineering Processes

3. One of the following courses:

   • C S 345, Programming Languages
   • E E 360P, Concurrent and Distributed Systems
   • E E 361Q, Requirements Engineering
   • E E 379K, Topic: Introduction to Data Mining
   • E E 379K, Topic: Software Testing

Software Engineering: Systems

Every software engineer must understand how software systems operate and how they can be used to solve engineering problems and deliver solutions. The courses in this area are designed to educate students about a diverse and relevant set of technologies and about the ways that technology can be used to design and build software systems.

Students must complete the following:

1. E E 360C, Algorithms

2. Two of the following courses:

   • C S 347, Data Management
   • C S 375, Compilers
   • E E 345L, Microprocessor Applications and Organization[12]
   • E E 345M, Embedded and Real-Time Systems Laboratory
   • E E 360P, Concurrent and Distributed Systems
   • E E 372N, Telecommunication Networks

VLSI Design

VLSI design involves the design and implementation of circuits and systems using analog and digital building blocks. A student should choose this technical area if he or she is interested in designing chips for applications such as computing, telecommunications, and signal processing. A student who is exposed to topics in VLSI design is well positioned to design state-of-the-art chips.

Students must complete the following:

1. Two of the following courses:

   • E E 338L, Analog Integrated Circuit Design
   • E E 360R, Computer-Aided Integrated Circuit Design
   • E E 360S, Digital Integrated Circuit Design

2. One of the following courses:

   • E E 338L, Analog Integrated Circuit Design
   • E E 440, Microelectronics Fabrication Techniques
   • E E 360C, Algorithms
   • E E 360M, Digital Systems Design Using VHDL
   • E E 360N, Computer Architecture
   • E E 360R, Computer-Aided Integrated Circuit Design
   • E E 360S, Digital Integrated Circuit Design

Suggested Arrangement of Courses

Electrical Engineering Curriculum

courses	sem hrs
First year, fall
E E 302, Introduction to Electrical Engineering	3
E E 306, Introduction to Computing	3
M 408C, Differential and Integral Calculus	4
RHE 306, Rhetoric and Writing	3
Approved fine arts/humanities or social science elective	3
total 16
First year, spring
E E 312, Introduction to Programming	3
M 408D, Sequences, Series, and Multivariable Calculus	4
PHY 303K, Engineering Physics I	3
PHY 103M, Laboratory for Physics 303K	1
American government	3
Approved fine arts/humanities or social science elective	3
total 17
Second year, fall
E E 411, Circuit Theory	4
E E 322C, Data Structures	3
M 427K, Advanced Calculus for Applications I	4
PHY 303L, Engineering Physics II	3
PHY 103N, Laboratory for Physics 303L	1
total 15
Second year, spring
E 316K, Masterworks of Literature	3
E E 313, Linear Systems and Signals	3
E E 316, Digital Logic Design	3
E E 319K, Introduction to Microcontrollers	3
M 340L, Matrices and Matrix Calculations	3
total 15
Third year, fall
E E 325, Electromagnetic Engineering; or E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices[13]	3
E E 333T, Engineering Communication	3
E E 438, Electronic Circuits I	4
E E 351K, Probability and Random Processes	3
Approved technical area course or upper-division technical elective	3
total 16
Third year, spring
E E 364D, Introduction to Engineering Design	3
E E 362K, Introduction to Automatic Control; E E 325, Electromagnetic Engineering; or E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices[13]	3
E E 366, Engineering Economics I	3
Approved technical area course or advanced electrical engineering laboratory elective	3 or 4
Approved technical area course	3
total 15 or 16
Fourth year, fall
E E 464C, Corporate Senior Design Project; E E 464G, Multidisciplinary Senior Design Project, E E 464H, Honors Senior Design Project; E E 464K, Senior Design Project; or E E 464R Research Senior Design Project	4
American history	3
Approved technical area course or upper-division technical elective	3
Approved technical area courses	6
total 16
Fourth year, spring
E E 362K, Introduction to Automatic Control; E E 325, Electromagnetic Engineering; or E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices[13]	3
American government	3
American history	3
Approved technical area course	3
Approved elective	3
total 15

Computer Engineering Curriculum

courses	sem hrs
First year, fall
E E 302, Introduction to Electrical Engineering	3
E E 306, Introduction to Computing	3
M 408C, Differential and Integral Calculus	4
RHE 306, Rhetoric and Writing	3
Approved fine arts/humanities or social science elective	3
total 16
First year, spring
E E 312, Introduction to Programming	3
M 408D, Sequences, Series, and Multivariable Calculus	4
PHY 303K, Engineering Physics I	3
PHY 103M, Laboratory for Physics 303K	1
American government	3
Approved fine arts/humanities or social science elective	3
total 17
Second year, fall
E E 411, Circuit Theory	4
E E 322C, Data Structures	3
M 427K, Advanced Calculus for Applications I	4
PHY 303L, Engineering Physics II	3
PHY 103N, Laboratory for Physics 303L	1
total 15
Second year, spring
E E 313, Linear Systems and Signals	3
E E 316, Digital Logic Design	3
E E 319K, Introduction to Microcontrollers	3
M 325K, Discrete Mathematics	3
E 316K, Masterworks of Literature	3
total 15
Third year, fall
E E 325, Electromagnetic Engineering; or E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices[14]	3
E E 333T, Engineering Communication	3
E E 438, Electronic Circuits I	4
E E 351K, Probability and Random Processes	3
Approved technical area course or upper-division technical elective	3
total 16
Third year, spring
E E 325, Electromagnetic Engineering; or E E 339, Solid-State Electronic Devices[14]	3
E E 345L, Microprocessor Applications and Organization	3
E E 364D, Introduction to Engineering Design	3
E E 366, Engineering Economics I	3
Approved technical area course	3
total 15
Fourth year, fall
E E 464C, Corporate Senior Design Project; E E 464G, Multidisciplinary Senior Design Project; E E 464H, Honors Senior Design Project; E E 464K, Senior Design Project; or E E 464R, Research Senior Design Project	4
American history	3
Approved technical area courses	6
Approved technical area course or upper-division technical elective	3
total 16
Fourth year, spring
American government	3
American history	3
Approved technical area courses	6
Approved elective	3
total 15