Dear Prospective Student
Welcome to the Engineering Technology Program, part of the Department of Informatics and Engineering Systems at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. The Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology will prepare you for an exciting career in a variety of automation, robotics, manufacturing, quality, energy, and application intensive positions in industry.
As industry and society become increasingly reliant on automation technology, it also becomes more dependent on trained specialists. In the Engineering Technology (ET) program you will be exposed to the current state of the art in computer aided design, automation, numerical control, robotics, and manufacturing technologies. Our courses are taught by a faculty with advanced academic degrees and many years of industrial experience. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for careers in a broad variety of technical fields built around automation and manufacturing.
The Engineering Technology program clearly distinguishes itself from traditional engineering programs by its focus on practical preparation. Most courses have laboratory and hands-on components to enhance classroom instruction. The program includes the opportunity to earn six different industrial certifications on the way to completing your degree. These certifications are recognized by employers as indicators that you have practical skills which are immediately useful.
The distinctive's of ET and the program at UTRGV are
- Engineering Technology emphasizes the direct application of existing technology or development of new technology to problems in industry, transportation, and government. This means a light focus on advanced math and theory in a more hands-on experience. Math required is only through Calculus II.
- The UTRGV ET program focuses on the use of automation tools and an understanding of manufacturing and quality processes and systems to prepare students for work in any organization which uses automation, manufacturing systems or robotics.
- Students are required to complete a practical experience as an intern so that they are well prepared upon graduation to be immediately productive in a permanent position.
- The various externally valid skill certifications which students will earn throughout their studies progressively improve resumes and greatly facilitate finding technical internships or Co-ops before graduation.
I am sure you will find the material on this website handy. It contains valuable information about the BS ET program, the sequence and pre-requisites for all the classes, laboratory facilities, academic clubs, and contact information for the department faculty and staff.
I invite you to be part of our Engineering Technology family. Do not hesitate to visit us and learn more about our program.
Sincerely,
Dr. Robert JonesAssociate Chair Department of Informatics and Engineering Systems
Program Coordinator of Engineering Technology
engt@utrgv.edu