Department of Engineering Technology, College of Sciences and Technology
118 credits
Introduction/What is the Study of Industrial Technology-Vehicle Design?
The Bachelor of Science degree program in industrial technology-vehicle design prepares graduates for design, product development and manufacturing in the automotive, marine, aerospace, composites, and alternative fuel industry. The program uses vehicle research, design and development projects to educate students. Through the Vehicle Research Institute, over 50 vehicles have been built since 1972. Since 1989, developing hybrid electrical and natural gas/biomethane vechicle technology has been a focus of the program. The student teams have set records around Indianapolis Motor Speedway, up Pike’s Peak and across the Australian Outback with a class win in the 1990 World Solar Challenge. A recent team was the only U.S. university-based team in the finals of the Progressive Automotive X Prize - a $10 million prize to build a 100 mile per hour gallon car. Graduates have entered a wide range of industry sectors including: automotive, racing industries, aerospace, marine, heavy duty vehicle, composites, prototype design and manufacturing, computer numerically controlled machining and biofuels. Students gain an understanding of the tools, materials and processes used in industry.
Why Consider a Vehicle Design Specialization in Industrial Technology Major?
The Bachelor of Science Degree program in Industrial Technology prepares graduates for the above listed fields.
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Department Chair
Jeff Newcomer
Engineering Technology 209
360-650-3380
Jeff.Newcomer@wwu.edu
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Vehicle Design Program Advisor
Eric Leohardt
Engineering Technology 146
360-650-7266
Eric.Leonhardt@wwu.edu
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Engineering Technology Advising
Engineering Technology 204
360-650-3380
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Jobs obtained by Western students vary widely depending on the individual student’s abilities and the portfolio of work they create while in the program. Graduates of this program hold positions with all the major automotive equipment manufacturers and custom car-building companies, as well as positions as stylists. Graduates also work in the marine, aerospace, composites and trucking industries.
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How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Admission to the Industrial Technology-Vehicle Design program is a two-phase process. When students initially declare, they are designated as pre-majors. Admission to full major status is determined by academic performance as a pre-major. See the department’s website for details, http://www.etec.wwu.edu/.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
