Author: Judy Burl

Changes for Robotics Engineering flowchart

This applies to the RE 2021-2022 flowchart and earlier flowcharts.

1. The prereq/coreq for EE 2180, Introduction to Robotics has changed. The original course sequence stays the same.
EE3010, Circuits and Instrumentation for CPS,  is now a required prerequisite or co-requisite (Concurrent prerequisite)and – Linear Algebra, accelerated(MA 2321) or non-accelerated(MA 2320), is now a required prerequisite or co-requisite (Concurrent prerequisite)
2. In semester 5, students choose either EE 3160(3), Signals and Systems, or MEEM 3750(4), Dynamics.  (previously only EE 3160 is listed)
3. In semester 6, take EE 3261, Control Systems. Previously students chose either EE 3261 or MEEM 3750. MEEM 3750 pairs better with EE 3160 topics. Those originally planning to take MEEM 3750 in place of EE3261, take EE 3261. See Judy if you already took MEEM 3750 instead of EE 3261.
4. Beginning Fall 2022, SAT2711, Linux Fundamentals, becomes a 3 credit course. The 4th credit can be ‘made up’ with one credit of ‘free electives’. (just about anything except co-curricular activities)
Update your flowchart with these changes or replace it with this flowchart. See Judy if you need help planning with these changes.
5. EE 3280, Robot Operating System, is now offered in Fall semesters, instead of Spring semesters, beginning Fall 2022. Update your flowcharts accordingly.
6. Elective list updates will need advisor adjustment in your degree audit, if taken. HU 2000 and HF 3850 are valid “RE Approved Elective”. EE 4777 and EE 4262 are valid “RE Technical Electives”. EE 4737 is a valid “Directed RE Technical Elective”.

Taking summer prerequisite course elsewhere

If you are taking a summer course elsewhere, that is a prerequisite to a course you need to register in fall:

1. Send an email notice to transfer@mtu.edu (Transfer Services Office) and let them know your name, M#, the course and the college. Include a screen-shot of your registration page showing the College Name, and that you’re registered in that course.
2. After that, a temporary  “IN SESSION (IS)” record will be added so that you can then register in the fall class(es).
3. Be sure to have your other college send an official copy of your transcript as soon as the class has ended. (otherwise the fall classes will be dropped)

A grade of “C” or higher is required to transfer a course to Michigan Tech.

Engineering Design Prerequisites

Whether you are doing Enterprise or Senior Design, you will need to meet the same requirements before enrolling. Be “Senior Design Ready” before registration in ENT 4950 or EE 4901 or MEEM 4901 or BE 4901.

CpE’s:  Complete EE3901 and EE3131. EE3173 must be taken before or with EE4901 or ENT4950.

EE’s:  Complete EE3901 and EE3131. EE3171 must be taken before or with EE4901 or ENT4950.
Photonics majors – see Judy for prerequisite waiver of EE3171.

RE’s:  Complete EE3901 and EE3280. EE3261 must be taken prior to or along with EE4901, MEEM4901 or ENT4950.

EE3901 (Design Fundamentals) is required for all ECE students.

EE3171 (EE’s) or EE3173(CpE’s) or EE3261 (RE’s) is a prerequisite for the second half of your final design path (EE4910, MEEM4911 or ENT4960) and must be completed successfully before you enroll in those courses.

As a reminder, your Engineering Design requirements may be completed with a one-year senior design project in EE4901-4910, MEEM4901-4911 or by completing Enterprise project work using ENT3950, ENT3960, ENT4950, and ENT4960. Plan on having two semesters remaining after completion of prerequisite courses to complete engineering design at the senior level.

Enterprise students who have completed ENT3950 and ENT3960, but are not ready to take ENT4950 may enroll in ENT3980 if you want to stay in your enterprise while you’re completing your design prerequisites. ENT3980 does not apply to your Engineering Design Requirements.

CpE and EE Double Major

If you enjoy both hardware and software, or can’t decide between EE and CpE, consider a double major (or a Master’s degree – even better!)

To  Add a double-major and/or change your primary major, use the Curriculum change portlet in MyMichiganTech.

Meet all requirements for both majors.
Flowchart: Here is a sample CpE + EE Double major 5 year plan. This can be done in 4.5 years with heavier credit loads, or if you are ahead on course completions.

Meet with Judy for questions and help with planning.  You can start out following the CpE flowhart and add additional courses later on.  It is usually best to make CpE your primary major and EE your secondary major.  You may switch those prior to graduation, if you’d rather have EE as your primary major on your diploma.

How to search for General Education class

Looking for a General Education Course? Practice searching on the Schedule of Classes using various Subjects and Attribute Types.

  1. Run your degree audit and find out which general education course areas you have not yet filled. (if you aren’t sure)
  2. Search in the Schedule of Classes (SOC) using the Subject and Attribute fields. Example:
Click the “Class Search” button to see what courses are offered in the semester you are searching. You’ll see if seats are available and the days and times of sections.

3. Use the complete list of general education courses to find the Subjects (Department) that offer gen ed courses. Try searching for co-curricular courses that you’d enjoy.

4. To search on all courses offered by Subject, leave the Attribute Type at ‘All’ and leave the Course Number field blank.

5. To search on one course, for example, EE2190, Highlight subject “Electrical & Computer Engrg”, then enter 2190 in the Course Number field.

Robotics Engineering degree: New for Fall 2020!

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department is pleased to offer the Bachelor of Science degree in Robotics Engineering beginning fall 2020 for the academic year of requirements, 2020-2021.

The Robotics Engineering degree encompasses the three disciplines of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science.

Students develop skills and knowledge to find creative solutions to engineering problems involving robots or robotic systems. Joining the Robotic Systems Enterprise (RSE), where students work in the research and design of robotic systems, is encouraged!

Engineering Design requirements: student have two choices, the year-long company-sponsored Senior Design program (EE4901/MEEM4901 + EE4910/MEEM4911) and four semesters of Enterprise project work. The approved enterprises for meeting engineering design requirements are:
Aerospace, Blue Marble Security, Robotic Systems, and Wireless Communications. Other will be considered for UPC approval on a case by case basis.

Advising: Contact Judy Burl, jmburl@mtu.edu or eceadvise@mtu.edu, EERC 131, 906-487-2232

Summer course option for Fall 2020 incoming class

Are you considering a head start on your ECE Degree? This is not required, however, you may take a summer course at a discounted price! The details are listed on our Admissions Website.

Summer 2020 recommended courses for Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering majors who are admitted for Fall 2020:

Do not take a course for which you may be earning AP or transfer credit. Students should not take more than one course from each General Education list (consider any AP or transfer credits you may earn).

One of the following is appropriate for all engineering degrees:
UN1025 – Global Issues, 3 credits
FA2520 or HU2324 or HU2503 or HU2538 or HU2700 (one of these will satisfy the Critical & Creative Thinking core list)
PSY2000 or EC2001 or SS2700 (one of these will satisfy the Social Responsibility/Ethical Reasoning core list)
MA1161 – Calculus I, (if Calc I is the correct starting math course for you)

Computer Engineers may include this as their choice:
CS1121 – Introduction to programming I

Electrical Engineers may include one of these as their choice:
CH1150 and CH1151 – University Chemistry I and Lab
MSE2100 – Introduction to Material Science and Engineering (will apply toward the SELECT approved elective area)

Electrical Engineers who are interested in pursuing a Computer Science minor or Computer Engineering double-major may take CS1121. If undecided, it is OK to postpone this class until later.

CH1150 and CH1151 will apply toward the Computer Engineering degree in the 2nd Discipline math and science electives area. Later, there are will be two other choices, in case you do not want to take Chemistry.

One of the other lower level Humanities, Arts and Social Science courses may be a choice for you, as 6 credits of lower level HASS are allowed. Ensure you don’t have the lower-level HASS already covered from incoming AP or Transfer credits.

If you have questions, please contact the academic advisor for your major:
Computer Engineers: Liz Fujita, liz@mtu.edu
Electrical Engineers: Judy Burl, jmburl@mtu.edu

Online Learning Tips and Strategies

Online learning could be more difficult, as it is very different from in-class learning, especially if you’ve never taken an online class.
Here are some tips and resources to help you adapt. You can also check out the comprehensive list of resources suggested by Residence Education and Housing Services here.

  1. Schedule your classwork at your normal class schedule. Many classes will be delivered online at the same scheduled time, in real-time, so be sure to join in. Do not skip class.
  2. Some classes will be recorded and available to view anytime. KEEP up with the lecture recordings and homework as you would on campus. Use the regularly scheduled time for a class, to do homework, listen to the video.
  3. Plan extra time for studying. Begin homework and studying for exams early, so you have time to get help. Online help from the instructor may not be available at the last hour.
  4. Be self-disciplined and stick to your schedule.
  5. Contact your academic advisor if you are unsure of your success or are experiencing anxiety over taking classes remotely. It’s best to talk about your options, and/or what strategies you could try.
  6. Be aware of your course homework deadlines and exam dates. Some exams may require a proctor which will need to be set up ahead of time. Seek help with the material from the instructor or virtual learning center.
  7. The Covid-19 situation is not an excuse for late homework, missed exams, lectures or lab assignments. (unless you have extenuating circumstances – contact dean of students office)
  8. What if you don’t have internet access or a computer? Some of our students may have access barriers. If you do not have adequate technology to complete classes online, please contact it-help@mtu.edu.
  9. Use this opportunity to embrace the situation, adapt good online learning habits, and be successful in your academic work despite the new environment. This is a challenge to be met.
  10. Do not cheat.
  11. Do not fill your time with additional activities that interfere with completion of assignments and study time, such as a job or vacation. You are a full-time student.
  12. Read all emails and communications from instructors, TA’s, and advisors and be on top of what you need to do for each course.
  13. Ask for help, if you need it.

Liz can be reached at liz@mtu.edu and 906-487-1161
Judy can be reached at jmburl@mtu.edu or jmdonahu@mtu.edu or 906-487-2232

ECE Course Instruction / COVID-19 / FAQs

This post contains updates and FAQs specific to the ECE Department while face-to-face instruction is temporarily suspended through the end of the spring 2020 semester. Please follow the University’s official COVID-19 updates page for the most up-to-date information.

Last update of this blog post: April 6, 1 pm.

For general student FAQs, please visit the official COVID-19 page: they are addressing a wide range of questions such as, “What if I don’t have adequate technology to work remotely?” “What should I do about my student org meeting?” or “What if all of my things are in my residence hall room?”

ECE FAQS – to be updated as details become known.

1. Grades – What is the Pass/Fail option and should I use it?
Here are details and FAQS about the Pass/Fail course grading option for Spring 2020, which includes a low-pass option for CD and D grades.

When can I change my grade to the pass/fail option?
May 6
th 8am – May 12th 11:59 pm, after your letter grades have been recorded for the Spring 2020 semester.
How do I change my grade to pass/fail option? This procedure has not yet been determined – Stay tuned!

What are pass/fail grades?
SCV = A, AB, B, BC and C (satisfactory pass / covid-19 spring 2020 semester)
LCV = CD and D (low pass / covid-19 spring 2020 semester)
ECV = F (this is a failed course, does not affect the GPA)

SCV and LCV are passing grades and satisfy prerequisites.
Courses taken Spring 2020, with a grade of SCV or LCV can be applied to the degree.
Grades of SCV, LCV, and ECV are not included in the GPA calculation.

Course repeat rule addition: Students may repeat a course taken during Spring 2020, regardless of the grade earned or the number of times the course was taken.

2. Labs
The faculty and lab TAs are equally motivated to solve this! They’re actively working on solutions, which might include sending you data sets for simulations, live-streams of tests, or digital interactive tools–more info coming soon.


3. I’m in Senior Design or Enterprise–how will I do my capstone work?
The ECE Senior Design Lab is now closed. Projects are continuing, however, teams should be working with their advisors and sponsors to revise project scope such that the projects can be successfully completed with working remotely. When using the lab (if that’s an option), please observe social distancing procedures and disinfect the workspace when you’re done using the wipes located on the large blue toolbox. Other virus-related safety protocols are summarized at mtu.edu/covid-19/.

Some Useful Contact Info:
If any teams need help from the ECE Machine Shop please schedule an appointment with Mike Goldworthy (mpgoldsw@mtu.edu).

If any teams need to purchase equipment they must email a purchase requisition to Chuck Sannes (cesannes@mtu.edu).

Any questions regarding senior design can be directed to Tony Pinar (ajpinar@mtu.e).

4. Are my faculty or advisors still available?
Yes! Although campus is closed (with very few exceptions), the advisors and faculty are working remotely. If you’re unsure about where someone is, check their Canvas course page, any group emails for the course, or message them directly to find out.

5. What is happening with my courses between now and May 1?
You should have heard from your instructors by this time. Faculty are actively working to adapt homework, lectures, assignments, quizzes, exams, etc. in a variety of ways and you will hear from each instructor directly regarding the specific setup of their course(s).

Some courses may be recorded for viewing at an alternate time. Instructors will let you know how and when their course will be delivered. You are still responsible for completing your coursework. Deadlines and due dates: adhere to any plans, expectations, homework, and exams as you would on campus. Most importantly, stay alert to your Canvas alerts and emails, as you will be receiving updates from both the University and your instructors.

6. Learning Centers – ECE’s ITC Learning Center coaching hours will be held online. The ITC Learning Center will now be housed virtually via Zoom. Coaches will log in when they are on duty, both for quick “in and out” questions and  longer answers. You can chat via audio, video, or instant message.

To meet with a coach, please join this Zoom link during these posted hours. Coaches will create a Breakout Room for you if you have a longer longer questions. The usual hours are:
Monday—Thursday, Noon – 3 pm, 6 pm – 8 pm

More info about other learning center operations can be found here.

7. Can I return to campus?
As of March 11, 2020 (1:30 PM), the University urges all students to make the choice that is best for their own personal situation. However, high-risk populations are encouraged not to return to campus.

8. I need to drop a course, but I am not on campus. What should I do?
First year students: you must email your advisor to discuss the ramifications of dropping a course. We still want to make sure that you know how it might impact your schedule and future academic plans. From there, we will work with you and the Registrar’s office to get the course dropped.

All others: you are still encouraged, but not required, to email your instructor to discuss. To drop, Email registrar@mtu.edu to drop a course; include your M-number and the course name/crns you wish to drop.

Course Drop Deadlines have been extended. The Drop Deadline with a “W” grade is extended through Friday, April 24th, for full-semester courses. The Track B drop deadlines are: Friday, March 27th without a grade, and Friday April 24th with a “W” grade.

9. I still have questions about Fall 2020 registration. What do I do?
The new Registration Priority Schedule is found here. The Approval / Waiver fill-able form is now available, so you can communicate electronically with anyone that you may need to. Check out the e-meetings recorded for the spring advising series in our blog here! There are many answers, links, and tips in those presentations and slides. If you have more questions, contact Liz or Judy–we plan to remain active on email, phone, or other telecommute options for anyone who would like to reach us that way.

10. What about Commencement (May 2)?
A new plan is being created. The latest status of Commencement is listed in the Campus Events and Services Status Updates page.

11. I’m worried about my co-op, internship, or job prospects.
Check out the great work that Career Services is doing! In particular, you might be interested in these sessions:

How COVID-19 is affecting internships and employment this summer.