Program Overview
The BS in Industrial Engineering at UIC equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, design, and improve complex systems. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, hands-on experience, and industry connections, preparing graduates for careers in diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology. Graduates are well-equipped for professional licensure and have a wide range of career options, including industrial engineer, operations research analyst, and management consultant.
Program Outline
Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSIE) program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, design, and improve complex systems, focusing on optimizing human, machine, and materials interactions. It prepares graduates for careers in diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Produce graduates with a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals, mathematics, and science.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for optimizing complex systems.
- Equip graduates with the ability to identify, analyze, and solve real-world industrial problems.
- Foster communication, teamwork, and leadership skills necessary for successful professional careers.
Outline:
The BSIE program comprises 128 credit hours, divided into several categories:
- Non-engineering and General Education Requirements (56 credit hours): These courses cover a broad range of subjects, including humanities, social sciences, writing, mathematics, and physical sciences.
- Required in the College of Engineering (57 credit hours): These courses provide a foundation in engineering principles, design, and analysis.
- Technical Electives (12 credit hours): Students can choose from a variety of courses to specialize in specific areas of industrial engineering.
- Electives outside the Major Rubric (3 credit hours): Students can choose any course outside of their major to explore other interests. The program's structure follows a semester-based system with a defined course sequence. Students typically take introductory courses in engineering, mathematics, and science during their freshman and sophomore years. Junior and senior years focus on core industrial engineering courses covering topics such as:
- Manufacturing processes and systems
- Operations research and optimization
- Statistics and quality control
- Human factors and ergonomics
- Supply chain management The program culminates in a year-long Senior Design project, where students apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world industrial problem.
Assessment:
Student performance is assessed through various methods, including:
- Assignments and projects: Assess students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems.
- Presentations and reports: Evaluate communication and teamwork skills.
- Senior Design project: Comprehensive assessment of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and project management.
Teaching:
The BSIE program features a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of industrial engineering. Teaching methods include:
- Lectures: Provide foundational knowledge and introduce key concepts.
- Small group discussions: Encourage active learning and peer-to-peer interaction.
- Case studies and simulations: Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
- Laboratory experiments: Provide hands-on experience with industrial equipment and software. The program also utilizes a flipped classroom approach, where students prepare for lectures through online materials and engage in active learning during class time.
Careers:
Graduates of the BSIE program have a wide range of career options in various industries. Some potential career paths include:
- Industrial Engineer: Analyze and improve manufacturing processes, logistics, and supply chains.
- Operations Research Analyst: Develop and implement mathematical models to optimize business decisions.
- Quality Control Engineer: Implement and monitor quality control systems to ensure product quality.
- Human Factors Engineer: Design systems and products that optimize human performance and safety.
- Management Consultant: Provide expert advice to businesses on improving efficiency and productivity. The program prepares graduates for professional licensure as Professional Engineers in all 50 states.
Other:
The BSIE program features several unique aspects:
- International study opportunities: Students can participate in study abroad programs in various countries.
- Undergraduate research opportunities: Students can engage in research projects with faculty members.
- Professional development: The program offers workshops and seminars to help students develop career-relevant skills.
- Active student organizations: Students can join organizations to network and participate in professional activities.
Conclusion
The BS in Industrial Engineering at UIC provides a comprehensive and rigorous education, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their chosen careers. Its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, hands-on experience, and industry connections prepares graduates for success in a wide range of professional settings.
