Engineering Science (B.A. Degree)
Interested in a flexible blend of engineering and other academic disciplines? Consider studying engineering science at Dordt. A strong foundation of engineering coursework combined with a science, business or art discipline? Sounds like a formula for success.
Program Overview
Whichever areas you choose to focus on, you’ll have flexibility that fits your learning style and career goals. Blend art and design with engineering and pursue a pre-architecture path. Combine business administration with engineering and find a career in industrial engineering. Whatever your passion, engineering science can help make it happen.
The program’s resources and facilities are top-of-the-line. Your professors provide support while challenging you intellectually. And your education will equip you for the task of life-long Christian discipleship.
What can I do with a major in engineering science?
Dordt alumni who majored in engineering science have followed a wide variety of career paths. Some have gotten into construction management. Others have established themselves in science-based industries by combining engineering with chemistry, physics, biology, or computer science. You’ll also understand how to incorporate your Christian faith into everything you do. When you major in engineering science, you’ll have numerous opportunities to make an impact in God’s world.
Here are just a few of the types of careers you’ll be prepared for with an engineering science major:
Electronics Technician
An Electronics Technician deals with different aspects of electronic systems, components, or products.
Automotive Technician
Automotive Technicians provides basic care and maintenance to trucks and vehicles.
CAD Technician
A Computer-Aided Design Technician uses computer software to develop different electronic design plans.
Career Preparation
Dordt University's 2023 Career Outcome Rate was 99.4%! “This data point tells us that Dordt graduates are prepared for the careers of their choosing,” said Amy Westra, director of Career Development. “A Dordt education provides students with industry-relevant courses and connections that make a difference.”
Program Options
Engineering Science Major
The engineering science major shares the same mission as the engineering major but puts greater emphasis on basic science and allows more flexibility in course selection. The engineering science major has not been examined nor accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) or any other commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org.
With an engineering science major, you'll gain a foundational understanding of engineering, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, and more. You'll also be able to select one of three emphases (general, architecture, and construction management).
To learn more, you can also view the program strengths and learning outcomes for this program.
There are plenty of options for those interested in majoring in engineering science, including work as a technician, construction management, and more.
A major in engineering science will require students to complete seven engineering courses, one chemistry course, two calculus courses, two physics courses, and one course chosen from a selection of mathematics and statistics options. This coursework includes three credit hours of lab work, several studios, and an individual studies project.
- Introduction to Computer Aided Engineering and Design: The design studio experience introduces concepts of graphical communication for engineers and develops basic 2-D and 3-D design skills with the use of a solid modeling software package. The course meets for one design studio per week.
- Introduction to Engineering Energy and Economics: An engineering foundations course that introduces students to engineering design economics (energy, material, time, and money) within the broader norms of engineering stewardship. Basic engineering analysis and problem-solving tools will be practiced.
- Introduction to Engineering Design: An engineering foundations course that introduces students to Christian discipleship as expressed in the field of engineering. Students are exposed to the concept of a biblically guided engineering design process. Students are given the opportunity to learn about engineering by doing engineering as they participate in a project-based engineering analysis and design activities.
- Introduction to Engineering Statics and Structures: An introduction to the engineering analysis and design of structures. Students will explore principles of statics and mechanics within the broader context of engineering analysis and design. The course meets for one studio session per week.
- Introduction to Engineering Analysis: An introduction to engineering mathematics and problem solving, introducing foundational mathematics and computational tools for the solution of a variety of engineering problems. The course introduces a perspective on how the activities of both math and science can inform and constrain our ability to design normatively. The course meets for one lecture session and one studio session per week.
- Introduction to Engineering Electronics: An introduction to electrical engineering fundamentals relating to electrical energy and circuit analysis. Concepts in digital logic and digital electronics are also introduced. Students will explore principles of electronic systems within the broader context of engineering analysis and design. The course meets for one studio session per week.
- Individual Studies
- General Chemistry: A first course in the fundamental principles of chemistry for students in all science disciplines. Topics include measurement, the mole and reaction stoichiometry, atomic and molecular structure and bonding, intermolecular forces, gases, types of reactions, and energy in chemical reactions. An introduction to laboratory safety and chemical hygiene is included in the laboratory. Three hours of lecture and one three-hour laboratory period per week.
- Principles of Chemistry: A study of the fundamental principles of chemistry and an introduction to foundational issues in science. Topics include atomic and molecular structure, chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, chemical thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. An introduction to laboratory safety and chemical hygiene is included in the laboratory. This is the first course in chemistry for majors in the physical and life sciences. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period per week.
- Calculus I: A study of the basic concepts and techniques of calculus for students in all disciplines. Topics include limits, differentiation, integration, and applications. This course is intended for students without any previous calculus credit.
- Calculus II: Continuation of Mathematics 152; a study of transcendental functions, integration techniques, Taylor series approximations, calculus in polar coordinates, vectors, calculus of vector valued functions and applications of calculus.
- Introductory Physics I: An introduction to the study of the physical aspect of reality for students intending to continue in the physical sciences and engineering.
Linear and rotational kinematics and dynamics, statics, and gravitation will be covered. Three lectures and one laboratory period per week. - Introductory Physics II: Continuation of Physics 231. Topics covered include fluid, oscillations, waves, heat and thermodynamics, and electricity. Three lectures and one laboratory per week.
- Multivariable Calculus: A study of differential and integral calculus of functions of several variables, and line and surface integrals.
- Differential Equations: An introduction to the theory and techniques of solving elementary differential equations and the use of these techniques in applied problems.
- Introductory Statistics: An introductory course in statistical techniques and methods and their application to a variety of fields. Topics include data analysis, design of experiments, and statistical inference including confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. Exposure to statistical software and a substantive student project are also part of this course.
- Accelerated Introductory Statistics: This course covers the same content and learning objectives as Statistics 131 but in half the time. This course, along with Statistics 202 and Statistics 203, also serves as preparation for Actuarial Exam SRM. Additionally this course, along with Statistics 202, Statistics 203, Statistics 220 and Statistics 352, serves as preparation for Actuarial Exam MAS I. Offered first half of spring semester.
Education emphasis
An education emphasis is also available with the engineering science program. As you study engineering science you'll also train in education, giving you the tools to teach others.
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Faculty
With experience in a variety of fields, our faculty members are equipped and ready to help you succeed.
Faculty InfoScience and Technology Center
While studying engineering science, you'll have the opportunity to spend time in Dordt's Science and Technology Center. Informally known as the "Science Building," the Science and Technology Center is home to labs for mechanical engineering, electronics, electrical engineering, and computer-aided design.
Learn moreStudent Stories
Dordt students and alumni use their gifts to make a difference in the world. Check out their stories to see how Defender Nation lives out our mission to work effectively toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life.
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Related Programs
Still looking for the right fit? Here are some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.