Oberlin College offers a wide range of engineering programs, providing students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen fields. With a faculty of experienced professionals and a state-of-the-art facility, Oberlin provides an exceptional learning environment for engineering students.
Electrical Engineering
The electrical engineering program at Oberlin prepares students for careers in the design, development, and analysis of electrical systems. The curriculum covers topics such as circuit analysis, electronics, signal processing, and control systems. Students gain hands-on experience in the department’s well-equipped laboratory, where they build and test electrical circuits and systems.
Why it Matters:
- Electrical engineers are in high demand in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% growth in electrical engineering jobs between 2019 and 2029.
- Oberlin graduates in electrical engineering have a strong track record of success in both industry and academia.
Computer Engineering
The computer engineering program at Oberlin combines the principles of electrical engineering with computer science. Students learn about the design and implementation of computer systems, including hardware, software, and operating systems. The curriculum includes courses in computer architecture, data structures, and algorithms.
Why it Matters:
- Computer engineering graduates are needed to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals in software development, data science, and artificial intelligence.
- According to LinkedIn’s 2020 Emerging Jobs Report, software engineer is the #1 emerging job in the United States.
- Oberlin’s computer engineering program provides a solid foundation for students pursuing careers in this rapidly growing field.
Mechanical Engineering
The mechanical engineering program at Oberlin provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of mechanics, kinematics, and thermodynamics. Students develop skills in design, analysis, and manufacturing. The curriculum includes courses in solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
Why it Matters:
- Mechanical engineers are needed in a wide range of industries, including automotive, manufacturing, and energy.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% growth in mechanical engineering jobs between 2019 and 2029.
- Oberlin’s mechanical engineering program prepares students for success in both industry and research.
Major Table
| Major | Degree | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineering | BS | 4 years |
| Computer Engineering | BS | 4 years |
| Mechanical Engineering | BS | 4 years |
Additional Majors
In addition to the three main engineering majors, Oberlin offers several additional engineering-related programs.
- Engineering Physics: This program combines engineering with physics, providing students with a solid foundation in both disciplines.
- Environmental Engineering: This program focuses on the application of engineering principles to environmental problems.
- Materials Science: This program explores the properties and applications of materials.
- Robotics: This program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to design, build, and program robots.
Career Prospects
Graduates of Oberlin’s engineering programs are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in industry, research, and government. Some of the most common career paths include:
- Design engineer
- Software engineer
- Robotics engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Research engineer
- Technical consultant
Alumni Success
Oberlin graduates have a strong track record of success in their careers. Some notable alumni include:
- Ellen Kullman (BS ’78, Chemical Engineering): Former CEO of DuPont
- Robert Zemeckis (BS ’73, Cinema): Oscar-winning director and screenwriter
- Jerzy Buzek (BS ’80, Electrical Engineering): Former Prime Minister of Poland
- Nora Kwong (BS ’93, Environmental Engineering): Founder and CEO of the Green Development Fund
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between electrical engineering, computer engineering, and mechanical engineering?
A: Electrical engineering focuses on the design, development, and analysis of electrical systems. Computer engineering combines the principles of electrical engineering with computer science. Mechanical engineering applies the principles of mechanics, kinematics, and thermodynamics to the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems.
Q: What kind of salary can I expect as an engineering major?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for electrical engineers is $110,840, for computer engineers is $134,810, and for mechanical engineers is $95,300 (May 2021).
Q: What kind of jobs can I get with an engineering degree?
A: Engineering graduates have a wide range of career options, including design engineer, software engineer, robotics engineer, manufacturing engineer, research engineer, and technical consultant.
Q: Is Oberlin College a good school for engineering?
A: Yes, Oberlin College is a highly respected liberal arts college with a strong engineering program. The college has a faculty of experienced professionals, a state-of-the-art facility, and a strong commitment to undergraduate research.
Q: What kind of research opportunities are there for engineering students at Oberlin?
A: Oberlin engineering students have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of research projects, including research in electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, and materials science. Students work closely with faculty members to design and conduct research projects, and they present their findings at conferences and publish their work in peer-reviewed journals.
Q: What kind of financial aid is available for engineering students at Oberlin?
A: Oberlin College offers a variety of financial aid options for engineering students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The college meets the full financial need of all admitted students.