Bachelor of Science in Engineering Western Kentucky University

What are Civil Engineers (CEs)?

Civil engineers design a better world in which to live. They design, build, and maintain our nation’s infrastructure. Some of the things that civil engineers design include: roads and bridges; buildings and foundations; water supply and waste-water facilities; storm water management systems; and environmental protection facilities.

Civil Engineering Facts

• Median BS Civil Engineering Salary: $65,000
• Some local companies that hire CE's: Army Corp. of Engineers, KY Transportation Cabinet, American Engineers Inc., Scotty's Contracting & Stone
• Civil engineers must consider the potential costs and environmental impacts, how long it will take, and what materials should be used based on the type of soil at the site when working on a project.

Curriculum Topics

• Construction
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Construction Materials
• Structures
• Surveying
• Hydrology

What are Electrical Engineers (EEs)?

Electrical engineers are experts in dealing with electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics. The electrical engineering major is extremely practical in the world today as everything is being automated with Electrical Engineering (EE) solutions.

Electrical Engineering Facts

• Some local companies that hire EE's: Logan Aluminum, Sumitomo, New Mather Metals, and General Motors
• EE's are hired in a variety of types of engineering work which invole: Circuits & Electronics, Electrical Power Systems, Computer Hardware and Embedded Systems, Robotics, Control Systems, Automation Biomedical Applications, Automotive and Aerospace Systems, and Manufacturing Plants

Curriculum Topics

• Circuits & Electronics
• Communication & Signal Processing
• Power Systems
• Computer Design & Embedded Systems
• Robotics, Control Systems, & Automation
• Electromagnetics & Optoelectronics

What are Mechanical Engineers (MEs)?

Mechanical engineering is the discipline that applies engineering, physics, engineering mathematics, and materials science principles to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. It is one of the oldest and broadest of the engineering disciplines.

Mechanical Engineering Facts

• Median BS Mechanical Engineering Salary: $73,067
• Some local companies that hire ME's: Logan Aluminum, New Mather Metals Inc., General Motors, NASCO, Sumitomo, Span Tech
• Mechanical engineering is the discipline that applies engineering, physics, engineering mathematics, and materials science principles to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems.
• The basic task of mechanical engineers is to design and develop new systems and technologies that can be used to extend our physical abilities and simplify our lives.

Curriculum Topics

• Ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems
• Apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet public health, safety and welfare needs
• Communicating effectively with a range of audiences
• Recognize the impact of engineering solutions on a global scale
• Ability to function effectively on a team and provide leadership
• Ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use judgment to draw conclusions

Why study at WKU?

WKU's programs are special for its small class sizes and emphasis on applied research opportunities. Our project-based curriculum will allow students to work on real problems while gaining practical skills that will be applicable to their workplace upon graduation.