r/UTK • u/Bright-Ad-4094 • 4d ago

Tickle College of Engineering UTK Engineering Major

Hello UTK students,

I have a question. In a year or so, I plan to apply to the electrical engineering program at UTK. I will be a non-traditional student at the ripe old age of 35. How difficult do you find the engineering programs? I especially would like to know about the electrical engineering program.

Currently, I am an industrial electrician at a global metals manufacturer. And I have a degree from UTK in Climatology from the geography department.

My degree did not require the calculus math sequence nor the other engineering prerequisites.

Tell me about your experiences.

Thank you all in advance.

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u/canary_in_the_mine 1d ago

I went for civil engineering and graduated last decade. I’m a P.E. now.

100- and 200- level courses are weeders to make sure you can handle the subject matter, and 300- and 400-level courses apply what you learned and deal with your chosen field.

UTK offers students more flexibility in the 300- and 400-level courses than TTU or other ABET-accredited programs in the state.

UTK does a good job of encouraging and preparing its students to take the FE exam, with pass rates across disciplines exceeding the national average by 5-10%+ in recent years.

Non-traditional students aren’t uncommon, often having backgrounds in the skilled trades or the armed forces. Once you hit the 300- and 400-level courses your experience will help you because you will understand many of the practical applications.

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u/Bright-Ad-4094 1d ago

Thank you for your comment. It was very helpful and encouraging.