Preparatory Programs

Pre-Engineering
Advisors: 
Chemical - Karl Lindfors, 774-3981, karl.r.lindfors@cmich.edu; 
Electrical - David Current, 774-3219, current@phy.cmich.edu; 
Civil, Mechanical, Metallurgical - Daniel Jones, 774-1402, djones@iet.cmich.edu; 
Geology, Mining - David Matty, 774-3179, david.j.matty@cmich.edu

Prerequisites recommended are three and one-half years of high school mathematics (two years of algebra, one year of geometry and trigonometry), one year of high school chemistry, and one year of high school physics.

Most engineering colleges require two years of pre-engineering preparation for admission to the junior year of professional training. There are differences among engineering college requirements and among curricula within each field of engineering that make it impossible to specify an exact general course of study for every student. There are however, common features to many pre-engineering requirements.

The first of these requirements is five courses in mathematics starting with Calculus I. It is essential that prospective pre-engineering students consult with an advisor from the CMU mathematics department during the new student orientation sessions preceding each semester. The student who does not begin calculus in the first semester at CMU will have a crowded schedule later. A student who does not begin calculus until the second year at CMU will not be prepared to transfer to an engineering college at the end of two years. Other courses recommended are: one semester of chemistry with laboratory (CHM 131 or CHM 161); two semesters of calculus-based physics with laboratory (PHY 145, 146, 175, 176); one semester of computer programming (CPS 180); two semesters of English (ENG 101, 201 or 134); electives in humanities and social sciences. Additional requirements depend on both the field of engineering and the college to which one proposes to transfer.

Because of these program differences, pre-engineering students must consult with a CMU pre-engineering advisor prior to registering for courses. The best time for this consultation is during the new student orientation sessions preceding each semester. The advisors are also available for consultation during the academic year.

In addition, students are urged to make early contact with the engineering colleges, preferably during the freshman year, to ascertain exact transfer requirements and admission procedures. Typical first semester courses are as follows:

ENG 101 or 134 (3) - either may be taken the first semester. Students who are excused from ENG 101 should take 201 instead.

MTH 132 (4) - choice of first MTH course to be made on the basis of high school preparation and advice of the mathematics department. Pre-calculus (MTH 130) or lower numbered courses will not transfer to most engineering colleges.

CHM 131 or 161 (4 or 5) - choice is made on the basis of high school preparation and the advice of the CMU chemistry department. CHM 131 is sufficient for most engineering programs.

IET 359 or elective (3) - IET 359 suggested only for civil, mechanical, construction, or undecided engineering majors. Students with strong drafting experience should consult with the IET department.

CPS 180 (3).

Electives should be from humanities or social sciences.
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