Industrial Technology

Trends In Technology

The pervasive use of high technology on a global scale has created a demand for employees with an understanding of fundamental technical principles and the practical skills required to apply those principles in the laboratory, construction site, industry shop floor or business office. These individuals must also understand the basic economic and business principles which guide business and technology. The BS degree program in Industrial Technology has been designed to fulfill these requirements. Graduates of the program find diverse employment opportunities as production supervisors, technicians, technical sales representatives, engineering assistants, computeraided drafting operators, con-struction supervisors, inventory managers, etc.

Industrial Technology Curriculum Objectives

The Bachelor of Science degree program in Industrial Technology addresses the need for workers with specialized technical training. The technology core of the curriculum builds upon a foundation of technical mathematics and includes components of metals technology and machining principles, computer-numerically-controlled (CNC) machining, computer-aided drafting and design, electrical circuit and digital electronics theory, and statistical analysis. To provide technical depth in a selected discipline, students may choose from one of four options: ComputerAided-Design and Computer-Aided-Manufacturing (CAD/CAM); Construction Technology; Electronics Technology; or, Business Management. The selection of the option is normally based upon individual student interests, skills and career goals with input and guidance by a faculty advisor. Throughout the program, a heavy emphasis is placed upon "handson" laboratory experience and practical applications of the theory gained in the classroom lecture sessions. Completion of a senioryear technical problem is required for all students selecting the CAD/CAM, Construction or Electronics options. This technical problem may be performed on an individual or team basis and must focus on the practical application of technical theory acquired earlier in the curriculum. A coop option provides students with an opportunity to gain additional practical experience prior to graduation.

Cooperative Education Experiences

A student majoring in Industrial Technology may participate in the Cooperative Education program. The coop student spends a total of six months (2quarters) of his/her academic program working in an industrial position. The six months are broken into two (one-quarter) sessions. This program permits students to gain realworld experience while earning money to help pay their educational expenses. A total of 30 credit hours can be applied towards graduation and is included in the student's transcript under "Earned Hours." For students earning the 30 hours of coop credit, the requirement for "Technical Elective" credit is reduced by 14 credit hours. In order for students to receive this credit hour exemption, both quarters of coop must be completed.