Teresa A. Dahlberg, Dean
223 Link Hall
eng-cs.syr.edu
About the College
These are exciting times in engineering and computer science. Revolutionary changes in multiple areas continue to transform the operations of most traditional employers of engineers and computer scientists. The demand for individuals with degrees in engineering and computer science is greater than ever. In addition, new nontraditional opportunities for engineering and computer science graduates are opening in law, medicine, public policy, finance, management, and communications. Traditional tools and technical know-how are often no longer enough. Today’s engineers and computer scientists must possess a broader set of perspectives, experiences, and skills to contribute successfully in a dynamic, rapidly changing world.
Syracuse University College of Engineering and Computer Science (E&CS) offers courses and programs that are designed to prepare leaders for a high-technology, knowledge-based global community. Through courses in the college and across the University, E&CS offers students a breadth of opportunities and experiences that is unmatched by programs at most other universities.
The college offers ten undergraduate programs: bachelor of science programs in aerospace engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, and bachelor science program in computer science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org. In addition we offer, in collaboration with the i-School, the Systems and Information Science, BS .
New engineering and computer science students enroll in ECS 101 - Introduction to Engineering and Computer Science . ECS 101 provides a broad introduction to each of our degree programs, allowing students an opportunity to explore each area before they choose a major. ECS 101 is also open to students of other SU colleges who are interested in exploring the areas of engineering or computer science as a potential field of academic study.
E&CS students may choose from a variety of study options, including technical and non-technical minors, combined B.S./M.S. degree programs, and a combined undergraduate degree program between E&CS and the College of Arts and Sciences. The college also offers its students opportunities for study abroad, internships and undergraduate research.
Founded in 1901, E&CS enjoys a long-standing reputation for excellence and innovation. The college community is composed of outstanding students, faculty, and staff who are dedicated to personal excellence and success.
Educational Mission and Vision
The College Mission
The mission of the college is to promote learning in engineering and computer science through integrated activities in teaching, research, scholarship, creative accomplishments, and service.
The College Vision
The vision of the college is to earn recognition among universities for engineering and computer science programs that prepare leaders for a high-technology, knowledge-based, global community. The vision for E&CS is a distinct student-centered research university model for engineering and computer science education. Features of this model include the following:
- the commitment that all programs relate directly to students and their learning experiences;
- the commitment that research is an integral element of the learning environment;
- the flexibility for students to pursue the diversity of learning opportunities available in a broad university setting; and
- the commitment to world-class quality in courses and programs.
Accreditation
Bachelor of science programs in aerospace engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, and bachelor science program in computer science accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.
Student Outcomes
Student outcomes in all B.S. in engineering programs:
- an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
- an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
- an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
- an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
- an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
- an ability to communicate effectively
- the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
- a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
- a knowledge of contemporary issues
- an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.
Student outcomes in the B.S. in computer science program:
- An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
- An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
- An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
- An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
- An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
- An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
- Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
- An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
Undergraduate Program Overview
The college offers ten undergraduate programs: bachelor of science programs in aerospace engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and mechanical engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, and bachelor science program in computer science is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.
General Regulations
For academic rules and regulations that apply to all University students, see the Academic Rules section of this catalog, which also contains special regulations that apply only to students matriculated in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
Engineering and computer science students enrolling at Syracuse University must maintain at least a 2.0 grade point average in all engineering, mathematics, and science courses taken at SU. Furthermore, all students must satisfactorily complete at least 24 credits, including summer courses taken here or transferred to Syracuse University from another institution, within any 12-month period to maintain satisfactory progress, with a 2.0 semester and overall average; students cannot graduate with courses having missing grades or incompletes.
For graduation, students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 and at least a 2.00 GPA in all ECS, mathematics, and science courses taken at Syracuse University. In addition, students must meet all degree requirements specific to their chosen major.
Arts and Sciences/Engineering & Computer Science (Combined Degrees)
Arts and Sciences contact the Advising and Academic Support Office, 329 Hall of Languages, 315-443-3150.
Engineering and Computer Science contact Maria Marceau, Director of Student Records, 130 Link Hall, 315-443-5191.
Engineering Faculty, See individual departments listed in the ”College of Engineering and Computer Science.”
The College of Arts and Sciences , in cooperation with the College of Engineering and Computer Science, offers a five-year combined curriculum. Students complete the requirements for and receive two degrees-one degree in a major of their choice in engineering or computer science and one degree in a major in the College of Arts and Sciences . Students who enter this program are urged to talk with advisors in both departments in which they plan to major as soon as possible. It is important that they learn the curricular requirements of each department in order to understand how best to merge the two sets of requirements.
Students register with the College of Arts and Sciences as the home college for the first three years. They receive a basic education in mathematics and science along with a liberal education in the social sciences and humanities. While most of the coursework taken during that time is in the liberal arts, approximately one quarter of the program consists of first- and second-year courses in the engineering field chosen by the students.
After completing the third year, students transfer the home college designation to the College of Engineering and Computer Science while maintaining a connection with the College of Arts and Sciences. The fourth and fifth years of the program focus on engineering subjects. The B.A. or B.S. degree in the Arts and Sciences major may be awarded upon completion of the fourth year, but increased scheduling options are possible by completing both degrees at the end of the fifth year.
While some flexibility is possible in the program, it is a formalized curriculum. Students usually major in mathematics, biology, physics, or chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences, although other majors are allowed upon approval by both colleges. The completion of the combined degree program requires a minimum of 150 total credits earned.
Admission requirements are the same as those for students entering the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Students who are already enrolled in the College of Engineering and Computer Science or the College of Arts and Sciences may transfer into the combined program provided requirements can be met. Such transfers must be approved by both colleges.
Intra-University Transfer
Students who wish to transfer into any program within the College of Engineering and Computer Science from another school or college within the University should have a strong record of achievement and demonstrated success in key technical courses and a cumulative GPA of 3.00. Specifically, it is critical for the applicant to have proven their ability to excel in college-level calculus (by completing at least one of MAT 295 , MAT 296 , or MAT 397 with a grade of B- or better) and science (by completing at least one set of PHY 211 /PHY 221 or CHE 106 /CHE 107 with a grade of B- or better). Students who wish to major in computer science must also complete CIS 252 with a grade of at least a B.
Student Success Center
The Student Success Center in the College of Engineering and Computer Science is home to three key resources: First-Year Programs. Programs Rooted In Developing Excellence (PRIDE), and Career Services. Students interested in further information on the Student Success Center can stop-by 121 Link Hall, call 315-443-2582, or email success@ecs.syr.edu.
First-Year Programs
First-Year Academic Advisors work directly with students on course selection, curriculum policies/procedures, assist with the college transition, and exploration of available academic resources.
Pathfinders are peer mentors who will help students’ transition to life as a new member of the SU community. Pathfinders offer guidance, support, and friendship to new students throughout the first semester and beyond.
Programs Rooted In Developing Excellence (PRIDE)
PRIDE provides programming that meets the needs of and fosters excellence in the educational, professional, and personal development of all undergraduate students. PRIDE is also committed to helping students develop leadership skills through involvement in recognized student organizations. The activities, leadership opportunities, and community service projects sponsored by the organizations are important to the students, the college, the University, and the local Syracuse community, as they prepare to be future societal leaders.
Academic Excellence Workshops (AEW) are peer-facilitated, one-credit, pass/fail courses designed to supplement the instruction in many first and second year courses. Students are able to register for these classes during the course add period via MySlice.
Success Coaches are available to help students define, clarify, and achieve their personal and academic goals. This is accomplished through one-on-one meetings or in a small group workshop session.
Career Services
Our mission is to educate and coach students so that they can successfully obtain co-op/internship/research opportunities and ultimately land a full time job in their field upon graduation. We invite our students to take advantage of our offerings so that we can empower them to get the most out of their college experience.
Highlights of our services include, but are not limited to:
CAREER PREPARATION:
- Resume preparation
- Interview skills
- Job search strategies
- Cover letter writing
- Negotiating the offer
- Business acumen coaching
- Mock interviewing
- Career fair preparation sessions
CAMPUS FAIRS
- College specific career fair
- Campus-wide career fair
- Employer networking and information events
CO-OP:
The Engineering and Computer Science Cooperative Education program (Co-op) empowers undergraduate students to take advantage of experiential learning opportunities that have proven to aid them in successfully reaching their post-graduate goals. The Co-op program consists of full-time professional work primarily during the summer. This design allows students the opportunity to gain more than six months of paid work experience in their field of study and still graduate in four years. Working during the academic year is an option that students may choose, with the understanding that their ability to graduate in four years may be affected. To be eligible, students must be enrolled full time in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
Contact Cooperative Education Program, 121 Link Hall, 315-443-2582.
Undergraduate Minors
Engineering Students
Engineering students can pursue any minor within the University. Students are required to complete from 128 to 139 credits, depending on their program of study. Minors can be earned by taking optional or additional coursework. Minors commonly pursued include mathematics, economics, and management.
Computer Science Students
Computer science students can easily pursue any minor within the University. Of the 123 credits required for graduation, 9 credits are free electives. Minors commonly pursued are mathematics, cognitive science, or operations management.
All Other Students
Students enrolled in colleges other than Engineering and Computer Science can earn a minor in computer science. Students with sufficient background in math and science can pursue a minor in computer engineering or electrical engineering.
Bioengineering Students
Bioengineering students can earn a mathematics minor within the prescribed curriculum. Other minors (e.g., biology) can be earned by taking additional courses. Students enrolling with AP credit or who take summer school courses can easily select from a variety of minors.
Computer Engineering Students
Students can easily pursue two minors simultaneously. Without adding any courses to their programs of study, they can pursue a minor in mathematics, and a second one in a discipline outside the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
Electrical Engineering Students
Students can easily pursue a technical minor, a non-technical minor without adding any additional course to their program of study. Additionally, a mathematics minor can be obtained by taking only one additional math course.
Study Abroad
In a time of rapidly growing global complexity and opportunity, international study is an increasingly important and relevant component of undergraduate study, especially for students preparing for careers in engineering or computer science. Of all the major professions, engineering and computer science are the most likely to involve international activity. In addition to strong technical skills, employers are increasingly looking for international experience, cross-cultural skills by developing a “global mindset” and perspectives, and an understanding of the world’s diversity.
For over 20 years, E&CS in a partnership with SU Abroad, has been a national leader in providing distinctive international study opportunities. These opportunities include:
- Study at SU Centers during Fall or Spring Semesters at: Florence, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Madrid, Santiago and Strasbourg.
- Study at World Partner Programs at affiliated universities at: Dublin, Hong Kong, Istanbul, London and Sydney.
- Summer Research program in Strasbourg, France
E&CS international study programs give students the opportunity to gain global experience, develop new ways of viewing the world, form lasting friendships abroad, and deepen their connection to other countries, languages and cultures. Students with these experiences gain a competitive edge in today’s multinational, multicultural environment.
To participate, students must be in good academic standing with a cumulatively GPA of 3.0 and in one of Syracuse University’s engineering, computer science and systems & information science programs or in an equivalent program elsewhere. Participants must also meet any language requirements of the host country.
For further information, contact the College of Engineering and Computer Science Study Abroad Office in 130 Link Hall or Syracuse University Study Abroad, 106 Walnut Place (suabroad.syr.edu).
Facilities and Research
Undergraduate
Facilities
The College of Engineering and Computer Science has facilities in three buildings on the SU Main Campus: Edwin A. Link Hall, Bowne Hall and the Center for Science and Technology, located at the east end of the Quad. In addition, the college operates teaching and research facilities at the Institute for Sensory Research, located on SU’s South Campus.
More than 200 computers are available around the clock for the exclusive use of students in engineering and computer science. These computers are housed in Windows, Mac and UNIX computer labs networked by up-to-date servers offering a range of software appropriate to the disciplines offered by the college. Information about E&CS specific IT resources can be found at http://helpdesk.lcs.syr.edu/.
Students in the college can readily access campus-wide resources operated by the University’s central Information Technology Services (ITS) organization. Wireless network access is available in all campus buildings and across the Quad. Detailed information about campus-wide IT resources is available at http://its.syr.edu.
Major
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Aerospace Engineering, BS
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Bioengineering, BS
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Chemical Engineering, BS
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Civil Engineering, B.S.
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Computer Engineering, BS
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Computer Science, BS
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Electrical Engineering, BS
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Environmental Engineering, B.S.
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Mechanical Engineering, BS
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Systems and Information Science, BS
Minor
Combined Degree
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Aerospace Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Aerospace Engineering/Energy Systems Engineering
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Aerospace Engineering/Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
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Bioengineering, BS/MS
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Bioengineering/Business Administration, BS/MBA
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Chemical Engineering, BS/MS
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Chemical Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Civil Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Computer Engineering, BS/MS
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Computer Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Computer Science, BS/MS
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Computer Science/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Electrical Engineering, BS/MS
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Electrical Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Environmental Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Mechanical Engineering/Business Administration (3-2 Program), BS/MBA
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Mechanical Engineering/Energy Systems Engineering
Other Programs