University of Portland Bulletin 2012-2013

Degrees and Programs

The Shiley School of Engineering offers four-year bachelor of science degrees in civil engineering (B.S.C.E.), computer science (B.S.C.S.), electrical engineering (B.S.E.E.), engineering management (B.S.E.M.), and mechanical engineering (B.S.M.E.). The electrical engineering program offers a "computer track" and the civil engineering program offers an “environmental track” under their respective degree programs. 

Because the University believes in a broad education for all students, the engineering program includes studies in history, fine arts, literature, social sciences, theology, and philosophy.

A master of engineering degree is offered in the Shiley School of Engineering. It combines courses from engineering, business, and communication studies. Details of this degree program are given in the graduate section of this bulletin.

Undergraduate Curriculum

The first semester of the freshman year is common to all engineering curricula. During the freshman year the student lays the foundation for later engineering studies. This foundation consists of courses in mathematics, science, introduction to engineering, and core curriculum. During the second year the study of mathematics and science continues, and courses in basic engineering theory and application are introduced.  In the junior and senior years the curriculum consists primarily of courses in the student’s specialization. There is a progression from analysis-oriented courses to design and manufacturing-oriented courses. In all programs a capstone design project is required in the senior year. Some variation in the order in which courses are taken is permissible, so long as the prerequisites are satisfied.

Throughout the four years, the student takes liberal arts courses to broaden his or her education and to improve communication skills.

Students are encouraged to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Examination prior to graduation. This nationwide examination is a step toward registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.). Our students’ passing rates have been well above the national average in this examination.