Engineering Science
Get to the heart of how – and why – things work the way they do.
As an engineer, you’ll analyze complex problems and use your knowledge to develop creative solutions. You’ll also ask questions: why does this challenge exist? What are the consequences of choosing a particular solution?
When you study engineering science at Alma, you can choose from one of three pathways, each of which offers unique benefits:
- In our four-year program, you’ll build a solid foundation in physics and mathematics, complemented by courses in other areas of the liberal arts. You’ll graduate with a B.S. in engineering science or physics. You can then pursue a wide variety of technical careers that don’t require a formal engineering license.
- In our 3-2 dual-degree program, you’ll spend three years at Alma, grounding your study in a broad liberal arts foundation. Then transfer to another institution for two years to finish your engineering degree. You’ll graduate with a B.S. degree in engineering science or physics from Alma and a second B.S. in engineering from another institution.
- In our 4-2 program, you’ll spend four years at Alma completing your engineering or physics degree. You’ll then enter a graduate program of your choice to obtain a Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) degree.
Regardless of your chosen path, you’ll develop a solid understanding of the principles of engineering, complemented by a concentration area in one of the natural sciences. And you’ll graduate from Alma armed with the critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills vital to your success as an engineer.
At A Glance
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12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
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18Average class size
Possible Careers
Get to the heart of how – and why – things work the way they do.
As an engineer, you’ll analyze complex problems and use your knowledge to develop creative solutions. You’ll also ask questions: why does this challenge exist? What are the consequences of choosing a particular solution?
When you study engineering science at Alma, you can choose from one of three pathways, each of which offers unique benefits:
- In our four-year program, you’ll build a solid foundation in physics and mathematics, complemented by courses in other areas of the liberal arts. You’ll graduate with a B.S. in engineering science or physics. You can then pursue a wide variety of technical careers that don’t require a formal engineering license.
- In our 3-2 dual-degree program, you’ll spend three years at Alma, grounding your study in a broad liberal arts foundation. Then transfer to another institution for two years to finish your engineering degree. You’ll graduate with a B.S. degree in engineering science or physics from Alma and a second B.S. in engineering from another institution.
- In our 4-2 program, you’ll spend four years at Alma completing your engineering or physics degree. You’ll then enter a graduate program of your choice to obtain a Master of Science in Engineering (M.S.E.) degree.
Regardless of your chosen path, you’ll develop a solid understanding of the principles of engineering, complemented by a concentration area in one of the natural sciences. And you’ll graduate from Alma armed with the critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills vital to your success as an engineer.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
The engineering major at Alma College gave me the opportunity to get a hands-on experience in learning how to solve real life problems using my own creative solutions and ideas.
The engineering major at Alma College gave me the opportunity to get a hands-on experience in learning how to solve real life problems using my own creative solutions and ideas.
Get to Know Engineering Science
Meet the Faculty
Professional Development
With a bachelor's degree in engineering science, you'll be encouraged to participate in an internship that provides valuable real-world experience. Learn about career support at Alma.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Ask questions, build solutions and discover connections between the natural sciences, mathematics and physics.
As an engineering science student, you’ll conduct original research and design and fabricate your own projects in Alma’s state-of-the-art facilities.
In our machine shop and fast-prototyping, digital fabrication and soft lithography labs, you’ll learn new techniques and develop skills you’ll use in your future career.
You’ll also be eligible to participate in our CORE summer research program, where you’ll work with Alma faculty, and middle and high school teachers and students to conduct hands-on research in the Dow Science Center.
What You Need to Know
The field of engineering incorporates many branches, from aerospace to mechanical, chemical and civil engineering. You’ll have the opportunity to build a career that caters to your specific area of interest. Engineering science is also a lucrative choice: in 2021, the median annual wage for an engineer was almost double the national median annual salary.
Alma graduates have gone on to work in mechanical, environmental, biomedical and civil engineering, as well as pursuing advanced study in some of the best engineering schools in the country.
Graduate Schools
- Cornell University
- Iowa State University
- Kettering University
- Michigan State University
- Purdue University
- University of Michigan
Recent Employers of Alma College Engineering Graduates
- Aircraft Precision Products Inc.
- Bausch and Lomb Surgical
- Johnson and Johnson
- Wolverine Corp.
Get Connected
Student Organizations
Take your learning outside the classroom — and find lifelong friends — by joining one of our 100+ student organizations designed to help you enhance your knowledge and expand your network.
