Western Carolina University

The undergraduate bachelor of science degree in electrical and computer engineering technology (ECET) is designed for students who love computers and how they work and who are more interested in applications than design.

The ECET major builds on a background of applied mathematics, science and computer engineering technology. Your courses will emphasize integration of theory and hands-on applications.

Fully accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission (TAC) of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), this program meets or exceeds high standards set for the preparation of computer engineers and computer systems engineers. This program emphasizes the use of microcomputers to solve industrial problems relating to automation, instrumentation and control in systems involving robotics, data communications, networks, and/or automated testing. In all cases, microcomputer hardware and software are used for data acquisition, transfer and analysis.

Fact Sheet

What makes this program so special? Check out the Fact Sheet for frequently asked questions and answers about the electrical and computer engineering technology program.

Curriculum and Course Descriptions

You will find curriculum and course descriptions in the WCU Catalog for the academic year in which you are admitted. To ensure that you stay on track with your courses for graduation, it is critically important for you to talk with your faculty adviser on Advising Day or at the beginning of each semester.

Advising and Course Registration

Your faculty adviser can provide the most accurate information about the requirements of your degree program. Your adviser will also provide the ALT PIN you must have in order to register for classes through My Cat.

The ECET eight-semester plan suggests the sequence of courses required for a BS degree in electrical and computer engineering technology. You also can use the degree audit function on My Cat.

Senior Capstone Project

As part of the Kimmel School’s focus on project-based learning, ECET students are required to participate in a two-semester senior capstone project. Working under the guidance of faculty and mentors, teams of two-to-four seniors tackle complex challenges proposed by project sponsors. The teams use a stage/gate process to set specific goals, deadlines and deliverables that culminate in fully tested products, concepts or new knowledge that project sponsors can use for practical purposes or develop further.

Career Opportunities

A degree in ECET will prepare you for jobs such as system administrator, network specialist, system engineer, applications engineer, software engineer, information technologist or technical and computer sales representative. If you would like to start your own computer consulting and repair business or own/manage a cybercafe after graduation, consider adding entrepreneurship or business courses through WCU’s College of Business.

Learn More

If you want to know more about the ECET program, contact Robert Adams, program director. To find out more about other engineering and technology majors, please contact Chip Ferguson.

Visit the School

Please visit the Kimmel School to learn more about what the school is doing as a leader in higher education and as a partner in technology-led economic development throughout the region.