The Pennsylvania State University College of Engineering will require you to complete between 120-160 credits (depending on chosen major) in order to graduate with an undergraduate degree. Of these credits, 45 of them will be General Education credits ranging in subjects from Health/Wellness to English to Mathematics. The remaining credits will be major specific classes that will round out your knowledge in the field. Be sure to strategically plan your class schedules and meet regularly with your academic advisor.
Choosing a type of engineering to major in is a big decision but don't fret, you still have time. The first two years, you will be in the College of Engineering pre-major. This means that you should spend the first four semesters trying out different things and exploring what branch fits your skills and interests. Explore each thoroughly as this decision will dictate your career moving forward. Some great ways to explore each major is to ask upperclassmen and join clubs to see what exactly each branch does.
The Departments Include:
Aerospace Engineering
Agricultural and Biological Engineering
Architectural Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Engineering Science and Mechanics
Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Nuclear Engineering
Engineering Design and Innovation
Adding one of Penn State's over 200 Minors to your academic resume is a great way to explore other interests that maybe aren't expansive enough to be a bachelors degree. These minors are typically 18 credit programs and are a great way to show prospective employers about your curiosity and adeptness in the subject. Chosen minors do not have to be in the engineering field which allows you to explore and gain expertise in additional areas.
Popular Minors Include:
Six Sigma
Entrepreneurship
Economics
Engineering Leadership Development
Onward State is a student run blog page where you can find a multitude of different resources ranging from information about upcoming events to tips and tricks about the University. Visit Onward State for more information on some of the best Gen-Eds you can take at PSU.
Penn State's Engineering home page allows students to explore all that the college has to offer and displays all necessary classes requires to graduate with an intended major. Visit the Penn State Engineering website to learn more about required classes and academics plans.