Engineering Technology

Engineering Technology at Illinois State University is an applied program that allows students to explore the integration of engineering principles and modern technology. The courses in Engineering Technology focus on the management of people, processes, and materials through hands-on, application-oriented activities. As a result, our students are well equipped to become technically-oriented managerial professionals and leaders in business and industry.

Why Study Engineering Technology?

The Engineering Technology major at Illinois State University teaches undergraduate students about the technology and management practices widely used in manufacturing industries today. An important aspect of our program is the emphasis placed on hands-on work in the classroom. We not only introduce students to the theoretical concepts of engineering and modern manufacturing; we have them experience these concepts through hands-on lab activities in most of their courses. Graduates of the Engineering Technology program possess the modern skills that are highly sought after in many technology-related industries.

Engineering Technology vs. Engineering

Most graduates from our Engineering Technology program have the word "Engineer" in their job title. So what is the difference between Engineering and Engineering Technology programs?

While Engineering majors eventually do work involving conceptual design or research and development with a heavy use of analytical tools and theoretical design, the Engineering Technology program at Illinois State will prepare you to improve engineering processes, manage projects, and apply existing technology to solve complex problems.

Related Skills

Our students learn in three integrated ways. First, students learn by exploring theory, internalizing ideas necessary to succeed in the field.  Then they learn by practice, familiarizing themselves with the processes needed to complete tasks. Finally, they learn by doing, using our modern facilities to gain hands-on experience with the equipment and processes they will be dealing with in their future careers. 

Engineering Technology graduates may be responsible for tasks such as: designing new products and tools using computer-aided design (CAD), applying knowledge of quality control to improve production efficiency, coordinating new product development and the implementation of new production equipment, and troubleshooting production problems to improve efficiency.

Key skill areas include:

• Ability to research a technical problem or new technology, present what was found and present viable alternatives
• Thinking logically
• Ability to research and embrace new technology
• Applying computer applications
• Working well with people
• Ability and desire to learn

Being Successful in the Field

• Enjoy working with technology and people
• Adapt and stay abreast of new technology and processes
• Complete an internship experience with a company in your area of interest
• Be able to coordinate complex projects
• Be persistent and creative to overcome technical challenges
• Learn independently on computer applications
• Effectively apply technology management principles

Related Fields

Product/Tool Design

• design new products and/or tools using computer-aided design (CAD)

Process Design

• apply specialized processing skills to set-up and optimize a production process

Project Management

• coordinate new product development and the implementation of new production equipment

Quality Management

• apply knowledge of quality control to improve production efficiency

Systems Integration

• create & program work-cells using equipment such as robots and vision systems to improve productivity

Technical Sales

• help troubleshoot and solve technical problems for customers

Career Advising

Internship Coordinator

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Minimum GPA

2.00

Middle 50% GPA

2.74 - 3.40

Required Courses

None

Recommended Courses

• Physics (PHY 105)
• Chemistry (CHE 110/112 or CHE 102)
• Finite Math (MAT 120)
• Statistics (MQM 100 or ECO 138)
• Introduction to Psychology (PSY 110)

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study (2018-2019 Catalog)

Academic Advising

Middle 50% GPA

2.74 - 3.40

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study

Application Period

Fall 2018: Applications now open. Applications close December 15.

2019 and beyond: Applications open February 1-28 and September 1-30.

Application Information

Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.

Academic Advising