Because the coursework in engineering programs is a rigorous combination of mathematics, science and technology, admission to an engineering college often is set to a higher standard than that for other college and university programs. Many programs recommend that students complete four years of high school math, including calculus, and three years of science, including physics. Speak with an admissions representative from the engineering college to learn about specific admissions requirements, including baseline placement test (ACT and SAT) scores.
Frequently, the coursework for engineering colleges is divided into two parts. Students must successfully complete a series of pre-professional requirements before being admitted to the college's professional program. Pre-professional requirements often include three calculus courses, a year of physics and a year of a second laboratory-based science, depending on the student's field of study. For example, bioengineering and biomedical engineering students may be required to complete a full year of biology, while materials engineers may take chemistry. Pre-professional engineering courses can include statics and dynamics, as well as computer language and design courses.
Many engineering colleges require a core of courses that are the same for all fields. Once students complete the core, they are admitted to their professional program. Professional program requirements, usually completed in the final two years of study, are specific to each engineering field and include courses in engineering topics and design. Civil engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering students complete different courses related to their chosen field of study.
ABET requires that engineering students complete a broad-based curriculum to help expand their outlook. General studies courses outside the technical engineering curriculum include work in the fine arts, humanities and social sciences. Engineering students may not be required to complete a second language, although thoses skills can be useful to an engineering professional.