2009-2010 University Catalog
Systems Engineering, BS
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Banner Code: VS-BS-SYST
School: The Volgenau School of Information Technology and Engineering
Department: Systems Engineering and Operations Research
The program leading to the BS in systems engineering prepares students for a professional career in systems engineering. The educational program reflects the systems engineer’s unique perspective, which considers all aspects of a system throughout its lifetime. Mason’s systems engineering program is interdisciplinary, drawing from engineering, computer science, operations research, psychology, and economics. The core systems engineering courses tie these diverse threads to provide a global understanding of how individual engineering disciplines fit into the development of complex, large-scale systems. Students gain depth in a technical area by selecting a sequence of technical electives that constitute an emphasis. Students choose their own emphasis with the help of their advisor. A year long senior design project provides hands-on experience in applying various systems engineering methods and tools.
The mission of the undergraduate program is to equip students with the ability to participate productively in the many professional activities associated with engineering a trustworthy system that satisfies client needs. The term “system” is interpreted broadly to include information, telecommunication, defense, health delivery, transportation and manufacturing systems, and corporate processes.
Specifically, the objectives of the systems engineering program are that graduates of the program will be able to:
- Apply fundamental concepts of mathematics, science, information technology, and engineering to contemporary and future systems.
- Contribute to the development of systems using systems engineering methods, processes, models, and tools.
- Work effectively as a member of multidisciplinary teams and behave in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner (including establishing a foundation for lifelong learning in systems engineering and related areas).
- Communicate effectively with team members and decision makers orally and in writing.
This program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, Maryland 21202-4012; 410-347-7700. The requirements for the degree may be satisfied on a part-time basis. Cooperative education provides students with the opportunity to integrate paid career-related work experience with classroom learning. |
Degree Requirements
In addition to Mason’s general education requirements, students must meet specific requirements for this degree. In the first two years, students obtain a basic foundation in mathematics, the natural sciences, computing, writing, humanities, Arts, and social sciences. The systems engineering program builds on this foundation, teaching theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to apply systems thinking to problems. Teamwork, collaborative learning, analytical skills, practical problem solving, and oral and written communication are strongly stressed.
Degree requirements for the systems engineering major include 120 credits. Students must complete the following: Mathematics and statistics:
Humanities and social sciences:
- Approved courses in literature, Western civilization, global understanding, arts, and synthesis to satisfy the university’s general education requirement. Note that all general education courses should be selected from the department’s list of approved courses.
Systems engineering:
Students must complete each of these courses with a grade of C or better. Advising and Plan of Study
All systems engineering students are assigned a faculty advisor. With the advisor’s help and approval, each student is required to complete a plan of study. This plan of study, contained in the detailed pamphlet available from the SEOR office, constitutes a learning plan for the degree program. The advisor must approve changes to the plan of study. All students in systems engineering are required to see their advisor at least once each semester to plan for the next semester’s registration. Technical Emphasis Areas
The systems engineering program requires 9 credits of technical electives. Students must select one of the following technical emphases, each containing three courses. Software-Intensive Systems
Synthesis Requirement
Mason’s synthesis requirement for systems engineering majors is satisfied by successful completion of SYST 495. Writing-Intensive Requirement
Mason’s writing-intensive requirement for systems engineering majors is satisfied by successful completion of SYST 489. General Education Electives
General education electives should be selected from the department’s list of approved courses. Sample Schedule
The following sample schedule shows the required and elective courses in the program. Students are strongly encouraged to follow this sample schedule to ensure that prerequisites are satisfied. For students who do not place into MATH 113 by taking the math placement exam, an alternative schedule is available. The position of the technical elective courses within the schedule will vary depending on the emphasis, and the position of some general education classes may vary as well. Please consult with your advisor to plan the correct sequence. Change of Major
Students who want to change their major to systems engineering must have a GPA of at least 2.75 in all math, physics, engineering, and computer science courses taken to fulfill requirements for the systems engineering degree and should have completed MATH 114 with a grade of B or better. Interdisciplinary Minor Programs
By taking appropriate sequences of technical electives and, in some cases, a few courses in addition to the 120 credits required for graduation, students in the systems engineering program can obtain a minor in an interdisciplinary program. Available minors include data analysis and computer science. Students should see their advisor and the departments offering the minors for specific requirements. |
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