Electrical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of electrical and electronic systems. This degree program provides students with a strong foundation in core engineering principles, including circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, control systems, and power engineering. Throughout their studies, students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, projects, and internships, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.

The curriculum emphasizes both hardware and software components of electrical engineering, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work in diverse industries such as energy, communications, automation, aerospace, and consumer electronics. Students explore areas like embedded systems, signal processing, renewable energy systems, and robotics, aligning their education with current technological trends and industry demands. The program also offers opportunities for specialization through elective courses and research projects, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Our state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities provide a conducive environment for experiential learning, while faculty members bring extensive industry experience and academic expertise to mentorship and instruction. The program encourages undergraduate research, participation in engineering competitions, and collaboration with local industries to enhance practical skills. Graduates of the program are prepared for professional engineering roles, advanced studies, or entrepreneurial ventures, equipped with critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills.

In addition to technical training, the program emphasizes communication skills, ethical practices, and teamwork, essential components for leadership in engineering professions. Students are supported through academic advising, career services, and internship placements, ensuring smooth transition into the workforce or graduate studies. The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at South Dakota State University is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility among its students, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to technological advancements and societal development.

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at South Dakota State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for diverse careers in the rapidly evolving field of electrical technology. Our program combines theoretical foundations with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet industry demands and contribute to innovation in areas such as power systems, electronics, signal processing, and telecommunications.

Throughout the program, students will engage with core coursework that includes circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, control systems, and microelectronics. Emphasis is also placed on developing strong problem-solving skills, technical communication, and teamwork abilities through collaborative projects and laboratory experiences. The curriculum incorporates hands-on learning with modern simulation tools and laboratory equipment, providing students with real-world skills that are directly applicable to industry settings.

In addition to foundational engineering courses, students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as power engineering, control systems, renewable energy, or embedded systems. The program encourages internships and cooperative education experiences, allowing students to gain practical industry exposure and build professional networks. Faculty members are dedicated to mentorship and support, fostering an environment that promotes innovation, ethical practice, and lifelong learning.

South Dakota State University’s state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories for circuit design, power systems, and communications, offer an ideal environment for student development. The program also emphasizes the importance of research and innovation, encouraging undergraduate participation in faculty-led projects and advancements in electrical engineering technology.

Graduates of the program are prepared for employment in various sectors including manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, electronics, and research & development. Many students choose to continue their education through graduate studies or professional engineering licensure. With a strong foundation in electrical engineering principles and practical experience, students will be well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the technological advancements shaping our future.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at South Dakota State University include completing a minimum of 128 credit hours, which encompass general education, core engineering courses, electrical engineering specialization courses, and electives. Students must achieve a minimum overall GPA of 2.5 to graduate. The curriculum begins with foundational courses such as Calculus I, II, and III, Physics I and II, and Introduction to Engineering. These introductory courses are followed by fundamental electrical engineering courses including Circuit Analysis, Digital Logic Design, and Electromagnetics. As students progress, they undertake specialized coursework such as Microprocessors, Power Systems, Signal Processing, Control Systems, and Communications. Laboratory work is integrated into many courses to provide practical experience in circuit design, testing, and analysis.

Additionally, students are required to complete a senior design project that demonstrates their engineering problem-solving capabilities and application of learned concepts. To ensure comprehensive education, the program includes courses in engineering ethics, technical communication, and safety. Optional electives allow students to tailor their studies towards areas such as renewable energy, robotics, or automation. Internships or cooperative education experiences are highly encouraged to enhance industry readiness. Students must also pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination prior to graduation, which is a key step towards professional licensure. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer-aided design tools, preparing graduates for careers in industry, research, or graduate studies.

The Electrical Engineering program at South Dakota State University offers several financing options to support students throughout their studies. Incoming students can apply for federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and Federal Direct Loans, which are designed to make higher education more accessible. In addition to federal aid, the university provides a range of scholarships specifically for engineering students based on merit and financial need. These scholarships often require separate applications and are awarded annually, helping to reduce the overall cost of the program.

South Dakota State University also encourages students to explore state-sponsored financial assistance programs such as the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship and the Higher Education Grant, which further alleviate the financial burden. Work-study programs are available for students who wish to gain practical experience while earning income. These positions are typically part-time and can be on-campus or off-campus, offering flexible hours that accommodate academic schedules.

Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form early to maximize their eligibility for financial aid packages. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides guidance and counseling to help students understand their options, complete necessary paperwork, and develop a feasible financial plan for their studies. Additionally, the university promotes external scholarship opportunities and internships with industry partners that can provide stipends or tuition reimbursement.

For students enrolled in the electrical engineering program, payment plans are available that allow tuition and fees to be paid in installments, reducing financial strain. Some students may also explore employer tuition reimbursement programs if they are employed or seeking employment in related fields. The university's commitment to accessible education is reflected in its comprehensive financing support, ensuring students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at South Dakota State University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of electrical systems and technology. This undergraduate degree emphasizes both foundational principles and practical applications, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to contribute to sectors such as power generation and distribution, electronics, telecommunications, control systems, and embedded systems. The curriculum includes core courses in circuit analysis, digital systems, electromagnetics, signals and systems, and microprocessors, complemented by advanced classes in power systems, renewable energy, robotics, and automation. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory experiences that develop their technical skills and problem-solving abilities, often working on projects that address real-world challenges. The program also encourages students to engage in internships and cooperative education opportunities, fostering industry connections and enabling practical work experience before graduation. Faculty members are engaged in research and development in areas like sustainable energy solutions, electrical drives, and smart grid technologies, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge investigations. The program emphasizes the importance of ethics, safety, and sustainability in engineering practices. Graduates of the program are prepared for professional careers in private industry, government agencies, and research institutions, or for advanced study in graduate and doctoral programs. The university also offers resources such as state-of-the-art laboratories, engineering clubs, and career services to support student success. Overall, the Electrical Engineering program at South Dakota State University aims to develop competent, innovative, and ethical engineers who can meet the technological challenges of the future.