Engineering Technology focuses on the practical application of engineering principles to solve real-world problems. It is distinguished by the level of mathematics involved: applied calculus is often the highest level required, whereas in engineering programs, calculus is just the beginning. While career outcomes for students in both fields overlap, Engineering Technology careers are typically more hands-on and include roles in construction and manufacturing process management, field engineering, engineering sales and marketing, product service and support, product testing, and quality control.
Northern Arizona University's Bachelor of Professional Studies in Engineering Technology program aims to create new engineering career opportunities. It serves as both a one-year BS completion option for community college students (with an AGEC and appropriate technical coursework) and a three-year standalone option for students for whom the prerequisites and rigid structure of traditional engineering degrees have been barriers.
Graduates of the program will be equipped to apply science, engineering, and modern tools to solve broadly defined engineering problems; design systems and processes to meet specific needs; communicate complex information effectively through writing, oral, and graphical means; conduct tests, experiments, and data measurements; and function as effective leaders on technical teams. These learning outcomes will be achieved through a combination of experiential learning, hands-on practice, and traditional study. The program culminates in a one-semester Capstone project in which students collaborate with industry partners on real-world problems, preparing them for employment and providing valuable industry connections.
To receive a bachelor of professional studies degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 90 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the general studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 90 |
| Major GPA | C |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 125 |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | Not Available |
Purpose Statement
Engineering Technology focuses on the practical application of engineering principles to solve real-world problems. It is distinguished by the level of mathematics involved: applied calculus is often the highest level required, whereas in engineering programs, calculus is just the beginning. While career outcomes for students in both fields overlap, Engineering Technology careers are typically more hands-on and include roles in construction and manufacturing process management, field engineering, engineering sales and marketing, product service and support, product testing, and quality control.
Northern Arizona University's Bachelor of Professional Studies in Engineering Technology program aims to create new engineering career opportunities. It serves as both a one-year BS completion option for community college students (with an AGEC and appropriate technical coursework) and a three-year standalone option for students for whom the prerequisites and rigid structure of traditional engineering degrees have been barriers.
Graduates of the program will be equipped to apply science, engineering, and modern tools to solve broadly defined engineering problems; design systems and processes to meet specific needs; communicate complex information effectively through writing, oral, and graphical means; conduct tests, experiments, and data measurements; and function as effective leaders on technical teams. These learning outcomes will be achieved through a combination of experiential learning, hands-on practice, and traditional study. The program culminates in a one-semester Capstone project in which students collaborate with industry partners on real-world problems, preparing them for employment and providing valuable industry connections.
Student Learning Outcomes
The learning outcomes for the BSET are modeled after the student outcomes requirements for Engineering Technology programs as described by ABET:
This major requires 90 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 90 units:
General Studies Requirements (25 units)
Foundation Requirements (4 units)
Knowledge Area Requirements (21 units)
Inclusive Perspectives Requirements (9 units)
Students need to take three designations (9 units) of Inclusive Perspectives coursework within their Knowledge Area course selections, including:
Professional Requirements (65 units)
No more than two grades of "D" are allowed in ET coursework.
Students enrolled in this plan may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units:
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 90 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or General Studies Requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.