The electrical engineer has been primarily responsible for the computer revolution that society is experiencing. The development of large-scale integrated circuits has led to the development of computers in a broad range of sizes and capabilities. Computers greatly influence the methods used by engineers for designing and problem solving. The curricula of the electrical engineering and computer engineering majors* are multifaceted. They provide a broad foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer science and a traditional background in circuit analysis and electronics. Several exciting areas of concentration are available, including microelectronics, computer systems, communications, control systems, and signal processing. Double majors may be arranged with most programs, including biomedical engineering, materials science, and mathematics. Students receive an education that prepares them for diverse careers in industry and government and for postgraduate education.
The program in Computer Engineering deals with the organization, design, and application of digital processing systems as general-purpose computers or as embedded systems, i.e., components of information processing, control, and communication systems. The program provides a strong engineering background centered on digital technology combined with an understanding of the principles and techniques of computer science. Computer engineering is design-oriented. The basic principles of engineering and computer science are applied to the task at hand, which may be the design of a digital processor, processor peripheral, or a complete digital processor-based system. Whatever the undertaking, the comprehensive academic training in this program enables engineers to evaluate the impact of their decisions, whether working with hardware, software, or the interface between the two.
The double major between Electrical Engineering and Biomedical Engineering is a strategic combination of the broad foundations of Biomedical Engineering with the in-depth preparation of Electrical Engineering. It is an ideal background for those interested in pursuing careers in instrumentation or the blending of computer technology with biomedical applications (e.g., medical informatics, imaging), as well as careers in research that are directed at the solution of biomedically-oriented problems or health care delivery. The similarity of the two curricula is leveraged so that the double major may be achieved with only six additional course hours beyond the standard load, at the cost of some flexibility in the selection of elective courses.
While some anticipation of the additional course load is advised by taking extra classes in the freshman year, it is often not necessary for those with AP credit. In general the EE/BME double major can be adopted as late as the sophomore year.
The program in Computer Science blends scientific and engineering principles, theoretical analysis, and actual computing experience to provide undergraduate students with a solid foundation in the discipline. Emphasis is on computing activities of both practical and intellectual interest, and on theoretical studies of efficient algorithms and the limits of computation. Good computer facilities are available for class assignments, team projects, and individual studies. Students are challenged to seek original insights throughout their study. Working in teams, participating in summer internships, supporting student professional organizations, and developing interdisciplinary projects are strongly encouraged. Additionally, Computer Science offers a pre-medical option for those students wishing to pursue medicine as a career, a five-year accelerated Master's program, and a five-year combined BS/Masters of Finance option.
Engineering Management is an interdisciplinary program of study designed to give students the understanding to manage technology development and innovation, to enhance manufacturing quality and productivity in a competitive international environment, and to implement these objectives successfully in an organization. Engineering Management links engineering, science, and the management disciplines. The program in Engineering Management helps to prepare students to work more effectively in developing, implementing, and modifying technologies and systems. Technological change in fields such as computer-aided design, manufacturing, and information systems demands engineers with knowledge of both technology and management. Undergraduates interested in Engineering Management have two options. They may earn the B.E. degree in another engineering discipline with a minor in Engineering Management, or they may earn the B.S. degree in engineering science with engineering management as their area of concentration. Courses in Engineering Management may be approved for minor credit in several programs. Detailed information may be obtained from our Web site: http://mot.vuse.vanderbilt.edu. Additional questions should be directed to the program director.