Utah Valley University

What you'll study

The minor totals 20 credits. Required core courses (11 credits) and labs introduce students to the field:

• ECE 1000 Introduction to Electrical and Computer Engineering (3)
• ECE 2250 Circuit Theory (3)
• ECE 2255 Circuit Theory Lab (1)
• ECE 2700 Digital Design I (3)
• ECE 2705 Digital Design I Lab (1)

Students then choose 9 elective credits from the following list to tailor the minor to interests such as power, control, communications or embedded systems:

• ECE 3250 Energy Conversion (3)
• ECE 3350 Control Systems (3)
• ECE 3450 Electromagnetics and Transmission Lines (3)
• ECE 3730 Embedded Systems I (3)
• ECE 3740 Digital Design II (3)
• ECE 3760 Electronic Systems (3)
• ECE 3765 Electronic Systems Lab (1)
• ECE 3770 Signals and Systems (3)
• ECE 3780 Communication Systems and Circuits (3)
• ECE 3785 Communication Systems and Circuits Lab (1)
• ECE 4700 Computer Architecture for Engineering Applications (3)
• ECE 4730 Embedded Systems II (3)

Note: at least one elective listed carries a prerequisite of PHYS 2220.

Entry requirements

The minor must be completed in conjunction with an approved bachelor’s degree; students should consult departmental advising for placement and how the minor integrates with their major. The sample graduation plan shows sequencing across multiple years and suggests meeting with an advisor to set an individualized plan.

Career prospects

The minor is designed to broaden technical career options. The program description highlights applicability to system automation, renewable energy systems and embedded systems. Graduates who combine this minor with a technical bachelor’s degree commonly pursue roles related to electrical and electronic engineering, control and automation, communications and embedded design.

• Electrical engineers and electronics engineers: relevant practical skills for circuit and system work.
• Embedded systems and computer architecture roles: supported by the digital design and embedded systems electives.
• Control, power and communications: pathways through courses such as Control Systems, Energy Conversion, Electromagnetics and Communication Systems.

The programme learning outcomes emphasize applying math/science/engineering knowledge, designing and conducting experiments, functioning on teams, effective communication, and implementing and analyzing analog and digital circuits—competencies employers look for in engineering positions.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should explore institutional scholarships, college or department awards, and merit- or need-based funding available to undergraduates. Because this minor complements many STEM majors, applicants may also qualify for scholarships targeted at their primary degree; check departmental advising and the university scholarship office for opportunities and eligibility deadlines.