Program Objectives

Program objectives, as defined by ABET, are broad statements that describe the career and professional accomplishments the program is preparing graduates to achieve, i.e. what we expect the graduates to be doing 2-5 years after graduation.

The Program Objectives for the Engineering Physics program were developed based upon the needs of our constituents and the demands in both industry and graduate school for a modern, broad-based engineering discipline subject to the mission of the university, the college, and the program.  Thus the Engineering Physics program will consist of a curriculum and experiences that instill the following in the graduate:

1. Depth and breadth of knowledge - the graduate demonstrates a depth and breadth of knowledge and are able to synthesize that knowledge for the practice of, or for advanced study in, engineering physics.

   This means the graduate practices the following skills on a regular basis:

   • a systematic approach to problem solving using synthesis of scientific principles, rigorous analysis, and creative design, 
   • a fundamental understanding of systems engineering, risk analysis, and critical path, which is incorporated into the ability to design and test hardware, software, and/or integrated systems to meet specifications,
   • an ability to use or adapt to modern analytical tools used to solve problems in their field,
   • an ability to deal with ambiguity and uncertainty in data, and has the confidence to make judgment decisions with incomplete data.

2. Professionalism – graduates work and communicate effectively in team-oriented, project-management-driven environments, uphold ethical standards and participate in professional development.

   This means the graduate works and communicates effectively on a multi-disciplinary team and understands the global and societal impact of engineering solutions and the professional and ethical responsibilities associated with these solutions.  Furthermore, the graduate demonstrates professional development by doing things such as participating in professional societies, participating in continuing education, seeking licensure, etc.

3. Leadership and Lifelong Learning – graduates take on leadership roles, advance in their careers and demonstrate an attitude of lifelong learning.

   This means that the graduate in industry understands that he/she will be expected to do general engineering and design tasks during their first few years in industry, but also is expected to demonstrate during this time that they have the leadership ability, knowledge and skills to advance beyond entry level positions.  The graduate in academia demonstrates advancement by obtaining advanced degrees and advancement in the academic or research environment.  This also means the graduate is not intimidated by change or challenge and strives to continually expand his/her knowledge and skills by participating in continuing education activities and staying current in their field.