Electrical Engineering BS/BA

Electrical engineering (EE) is a profession that uses science, mathematics, computers and other technology, coupled with problem solving skills, to design, construct and maintain products, services and systems using electricity and electronics. Electrical engineers research, design, develop and operate the many electrical systems and components that run our world. Electrical engineers are often associated with computer chips, power generation or telecommunications. However, electrical engineers also specialize in such work as circuit design, computers and automatic control systems, microelectronics, electronic photography and television, energy sources and systems, and solid-state materials and devices. Electrical engineers work in the communications, aerospace, computer, electrical power, medical, semiconductor and consumer electronics industries. Electrical engineering is a field with diverse challenges and many opportunities.

The EE program at USD encompasses a breadth of traditional fields and provides depth in electronics, signal analysis and digital systems. In addition, students complete the broad range of core curriculum requirements that lead to a unique dual BS/BA degree in electrical engineering. Within the curriculum, special emphasis is placed upon engineering design and the use of the computer both as an engineering tool and as an integral component in systems. Both emphases are integrated throughout the curriculum with basic concepts introduced during the first two years followed by increasing levels of application complexity throughout the upper division courses.

Educational Objectives

• Are able to apply their electrical engineering and broad academic backgrounds in their professional and personal endeavors

• Can adapt to evolving job responsibilities

• Can contribute effectively on a team and provide leadership in their professional careers

To achieve these objectives, the EE program has been designed to ensure that graduates have achieved the following outcomes including an ability to:

• identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics

• apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors

• communicate effectively with a range of audiences

• recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts

• function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives

• develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions

• acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

• apply knowledge of probability and statistics to applications in electrical engineering.

Fast-changing technologies in the field of electrical engineering mean that life-long learning is a necessity for members of the profession. The significance of electrical engineering technologies in affecting the quality of life throughout the world creates additional professional responsibilities. As part of these professional obligations, all EE majors are expected to maintain student membership in the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Inc. (IEEE).

Electrical Engineering Advisory Board

The Electrical Engineering Advisory Board (EEAB) was organized in Summer 2001 to represent the interests of the electrical engineering industry and alumni to the electrical engineering program. The board, composed of representatives from companies such as SAIC, General Atomics, ViaSat Inc., and SDGE, serves, serves to expand the level and role of industry affiliates in the continued development of the electrical engineering program and in the promotion of cooperative programs and relations with industry and the San Diego community.

Available Minors

The electrical engineering standard pattern qualifies students for a minor in mathematics with the addition of one additional course. Interested majors should apply to the mathematics department for specific approval of the minor. Minors are possible in other areas, particularly computer science or physics, but also business administration, etc., by the addition of courses not included in the engineering standard patterns. The interested student should consult this course catalog or the specific department for guidance, as well as an engineering advisor for career-oriented advice.