Electrical Engineering, BS

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering program at the University of Alabama is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Electrical, Computer, Communications, Telecommunication(s) and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

The Electrical Engineering program gives students a broad knowledge of the math, physics, electronics, and power concepts necessary for a career in the discipline.  Students will become familiar with topics such as electronics, electromechanical systems, embedded systems, power electronics, micro and nanoelectronics, microwave engineering, optoelectronics, semiconductor devices, photonics, photovoltaics, solar power, biomedical devices, microelectromechanical systems, internet of things, laser, RF/analog/digital circuit design, radar, robotics, sensors, signal processing, control, software development, machine learning, cyber-physical security, artificial intelligence, and vehicle technology. Students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills throughout their studies. In addition, they develop an ability to apply their knowledge of mathematics, science, and general engineering to address technical issues.

Graduates with an Electrical Engineering BS degree commonly begin their careers in a variety of functions including: power generation, management, and distribution engineers; analog electronics designers; digital hardware designers; printed circuit board designers; and embedded hardware and software developers. Graduates often work in a wide range of industries including aerospace, defense/military, automotive, medical, software, semiconductors, and consumer electronics. These graduates also pursue post-graduate degrees in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Business & Commerce, and even professional areas such as Law and Medicine.

The information contained here describes the undergraduate curriculum in Electrical Engineering. Graduate students and students participating in the Accelerated Masters Program (AMP) should consult the graduate catalog for information on all cross-listed and graduate-only courses. More information about various programs within the department is available in the Electrical and Computer Engineering departmental office located in 3027 SERC.

Program Educational Objectives

The Program Educational Objectives for the B.S. in Electrical Engineering are:

• Graduates will excel in engineering careers and/or postgraduate education utilizing knowledge of Electrical Engineering disciplines and underlying fundamental principles of science and mathematics, engineering analysis, problem solving, and design;
• Graduates will expand their knowledge of current and emerging issues in Electrical Engineering and continue career-long professional development through engagement in lifelong learning;
• Graduates will grow professionally and advance throughout their engineering careers utilizing skills in effective communication; responsible, multidisciplinary teamwork, and adherence to principles of professional accountability and ethics.

Student Outcomes

Graduates of the Electrical Engineering program will have:

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics;
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specific needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors;
3. An Ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
4. An ability to 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;
5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives;
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions;
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies;
8. An ability to solve mathematics problems in probability, statistics, differential equations, linear algebra, complex variables, and discrete mathematics as they relate to problems in Electrical Engineering.