Berea College

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational engineering and mathematics with applied technical subjects and extensive laboratory work. Early years emphasise calculus, physics, engineering drawing and basic materials science to build a strong analytical core. Core and elective modules typically include:

• Engineering Mathematics and Physics — calculus, differential equations and mechanics that underpin technical problem solving.
• Statics and Strength of Materials — basic structural behaviour, stress–strain concepts and material selection.
• Circuits and Electronics — DC/AC circuits, instrumentation, sensors and basic embedded systems.
• Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) — 2D/3D modelling, CNC fundamentals and digital fabrication techniques.
• Manufacturing Processes and Materials — properties and processing of metals, polymers and composites; workshop practices.
• Control Systems and Automation — fundamentals of control theory, PLCs and industrial automation basics.
• Laboratory Practicals and Project Work — hands-on experiments, instrumentation, prototyping and iterative design.
• Capstone or Senior Project — team-based applied project integrating design, testing and presentation to industry-relevant requirements.

The curriculum is delivered with small class sizes and significant supervised lab time in workshops and maker-spaces. Students also complete general education courses in writing, humanities and social sciences to support communication and ethical understanding in technical contexts.

Entry requirements

Admissions to the programme expect a high-school diploma or equivalent with a solid grounding in mathematics and natural sciences. Typical academic expectations include strong grades in:

• Algebra and geometry, and preferably calculus or precalculus
• Physics (mechanics recommended) and chemistry

Applicants are normally asked to submit a secondary-school transcript and letters of recommendation. Practical experience such as workshop classes, robotics, technical clubs or work in manufacturing is an advantage. Applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate language proficiency in line with college admissions policies.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Engineering Technologies go on to practical, technical and supervisory roles across a range of industries. Typical entry-level and mid-career roles include:

• Engineering technologist or technician in manufacturing, utilities or construction
• CAD/CAM designer and drafter
• Field service engineer or maintenance technician
• Production supervisor or quality-control specialist
• Automation and controls technician
• Technical sales engineer or application specialist

Graduates may also choose to pursue further study — for example specialised technical masters programmes or professional certification — or transfer into extended engineering degrees where available. The programme’s emphasis on hands-on skills and applied problem-solving makes alumni attractive to regional manufacturers, technology firms and engineering consultancies.

Why study at Berea College

Berea College offers a distinctive undergraduate environment where intensive faculty mentorship and small classes support applied learning. The college’s commitment to access and labour-based work programs means students gain practical experience and community engagement alongside their studies. Students benefit from well-equipped workshops, laboratory facilities and opportunities for paid campus employment that build technical competence.

The college’s liberal-arts foundation ensures graduates are not only technically capable but also strong communicators and critical thinkers — skills valued by employers. Close ties with regional industry and a career services focus on internships and experiential placements help students transition into relevant technical roles after graduation.