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Engineering Techology Program of Study

The Engineering Technology (ET) program offers students the flexibility to study in one of two areas: (1) Automation and Robotics or (2) Manufacturing Design and Production. Students are prepared for careers in areas such as quality auditing, continuous improvement, production management, cost estimating, scheduling, and a variety of technical fields. Course content that combines a unique blend of theory, principles, and concepts with know-how, practical application, and problem-solving skills ensures that students are prepared to work in a team environment. Laboratories support contemporary design and animation software and CAD/CAM plus production equipment, including CNC machining centers and material testing devices. No prior experience with manufacturing engineering principles or software is required upon enrollment. 

Special Opportunities

A key component of the major is the required internship. Every student in his or her junior or senior year earns course credit for successfully applying knowledge while gaining invaluable on-the-job experience. By securing an internship in any approved major-related field, each student has the opportunity to enhance his or her skills in a professional work environment of particular interest. Many students report that the internship experience helps them focus their career goals and make vital industry contacts that benefit them upon graduation.

There are many ways to benefit from a baccalaureate degree in ET:

  • 91+% placement
  • Applications oriented (hands-on)
  • Small student-faculty ratio
  • Small class sizes
  • Diverse faculty
  • Certification opportunities
  • Higher salaries
  • Develop ability to work in teams
  • Required internship (industry experience)

GradTrac is available to ET students. Western Illinois University guarantees new freshmen that if you meet GradTrac requirements, you will graduate in four years or your remaining tuition will be free. During your four years, your progress will be monitored by your adviser, which will simplify course scheduling. This program is absolutely free! Your responsibility is to meet the requirements of the GradTrac agreement. Regularly-admitted freshmen are eligible to apply for GradTrac. See your adviser to participate.


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Student Organizations

Students enrolled in the Department of Engineering Technology are invited to become members of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the Robotics Club. Students travel to, and participate in, competitions at national/regional conferences, attend field trips, and host professionals who provide insight into their selected fields. Students are eligible to sit for the Certified Manufacturing Engineer and/or the Certified Manufacturing Technologist certification exams upon completion of the MET program.

Students can also take certification exams from the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE, formerly NAIT). ATMAE's certifications are the Certified Manufacturing Specialist (CMS), Certified Senior Manufacturing Specialist (CSMS), Certified Technology Manager (CTM, formerly CIT), and the Certified Senior Technology Manager (CSTM, formerly CSIT). In addition, a student can pursue a certification that matches their career path from the American Society of Quality (ASQ).

Accreditation

The ET program at Western Illinois University is accredited by The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

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