Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Integrated Engineering
Question
Is the Integrated Engineering Program accredited?
Answer
Yes, it is fully accredited with the highest level of accreditation from the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB).
Question
Do integrated engineers have more hours of class than other engineers?
Answer
In terms of Accreditation Units used by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB), Integrated Engineering is comparable to other engineering programs at Western. In terms of the total number of courses taken, it is about the same as other engineering programs.
Question
Can I do a dual degree with Integrated Engineering?
Answer
Certainly. Our dual degree offerings are very flexible. In the past, Integrated students have done concurrent degrees in diverse areas including Film, Philosophy, Economics, and Music. Many Integrated students have done Integrated with Business. In fact, the broad-based interdisciplinary nature of Integrated Engineering makes it well suited for concurrent degrees with other disciplines.
We have recently introduced concurrent degree programs combining Integrated with Biomaterials, Integrated with Computer Science, Integrated with Materials Science, and Integrated with Medical Biophysics. We also offer Integrated with Medicine, and Integrated with Law.
Question
Can I pursue a graduate degree if I go into Integrated Engineering?
Answer
Of course. Several graduates of the Integrated Engineering program have pursued graduate studies in areas including: materials engineering, biomedical engineering, mechatronics, and environmental engineering. Most of the exciting research today is at the boundaries of traditional disciplines, and the broad background of Integrated Engineers make them well suited to this kind of research.
Question
I heard that Integrated students take the hardest courses in each discipline. Is that true?
Answer
In Integrated you don’t take the hardest course from each discipline: you take the core courses each discipline is based on. This allows you to develop a strong understanding in all of the various fields of engineering. As you go on through the years in Integrated you discover how many different things overlap and you are able to use the concepts from one discipline to solve problems in others.
Question
Is it hard for Integrated engineers to get jobs?
Answer
When we started the program, we surveyed employers to determine the demand for this program. A large proportion of employers indicated that they would seriously consider hiring an Integrated engineer. Our graduates have reported very positive response from potential employers, and our Integrated Engineers have found positions in a variety of industries. Some companies that have hired our graduates are interested in hiring more Integrated Engineers. There is no evidence that Integrated graduates have any more difficulty finding jobs than graduates from traditional programs.
Question
I haven't seen any employers advertising for Integrated Engineers. Does that mean there is no demand?
Answer
Integrated Engineering is not one of the traditional disciplines, and many employers are unaware of it. Often job ads will specify "mechanical or electrical", or "mechanical or chemical", when they really need "integrated". Many of our graduates have successfully applied for these kinds of jobs.
Question
I've heard that Integrated Engineering is for students who want to go into management. Is that true?
Answer
Yes, the broad technical background provided by Integrated Engineering is ideal preparation for a management career. Many students with this interest take Integrated with Business.
Question
I've heard that Integrated Engineering is for students who want to work for small companies. Is that true?
Answer
Yes. Most small companies cannot afford to employ several specialist engineers. The flexibility and broad background provided by Integrated Engineering is ideal preparation for working in a small company.
Question
Is Integrated Engineering good preparation for getting a job in a large company?
Answer
Yes. Even large companies need only a relatively small number of specialists. Most engineers work on interdisciplinary teams, and the broad background of Integrated Engineering is ideal for managing and working in these teams.
Question
I'm an entrepreneur, and would like to start my own company. Is Integrated Engineering for me?
Answer
Yes. Entrepreneurs need a broad range of technical and non-technical skills to be successful. Read more about Al Moloo, a successful entrepreneur and Integrated Engineering alumnus.
Question
I'm interested in a career in the area of environmental sustainability. Is Integrated Engineering for me?
Answer
Yes. Current environmental problems require an interdisciplinary solution, and Integrated Engineers are well prepared to work in this area. The program offers a selection of "environmental engineering" courses offered by the different departments. Read more about Pranay Krishen, a recent graduate of Integrated engineering.
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Contact Info
Western Engineering
Spencer Engineering Building,
Room number
Telephone: 519 661-2128
Fax: 519 661-3808
contactWE@eng.uwo.ca
