Wireless Software Engineering
The Wireless Engineering curriculum is a joint offering of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, leading to the Bachelor of Wireless Engineering (BWE) degree. To meet the need for engineers that can improve life and business in these times of a mobile society, the educational objectives of this curriculum are (1) to develop within our graduates a basic foundation in wireless technology and either electrical engineering or software engineering and network design and operation that will provide the technical proficiency needed for the professional practice of engineering in the wireless telecommunications industry, (2) to develop within our graduates the ability to communicate their ideas effectively within the technical community and to the general public, (3) to provide our graduates with the basis for, and instill within them an appreciation of and enthusiasm for, lifelong scientific inquiry, learning and creativity, and (4) to prepare our graduates to take their places in society as responsible citizens, with an appreciation of and understanding for the need to maintain the highest ethical standards in their personal and professional lives. Graduates of this program will be able to analyze, develop, design, test, administer and support wireless network systems, communication devices, and other components used in wireless computer and telecommunication networks.
The BWE curriculum has two formal options - Wireless Electrical Engineering (EE), emphasizing the design of hardware and networks, and Wireless Software Engineering (SWE), emphasizing the design of software and networks. Through a choice of several courses within the senior year, a student can select one of wo areas of specialization within each degree option. Students interested in designing wireless hardware, such as integrated circuit chips, wireless communication devices, and wireless network switching equipment, should choose the Hardware Specialization within the Wireless EE Option. Students interested in application software development, including server-side, client-side, and embedded applications, should choose the Software Specialization within the Wireless SWE Option. Students interested in pursuing a career with wireless service providers and other companies that develop and maintain wireless networks and cell service should choose the Network Specialization within either the Wireless EE Option or the Wireless SWE Option.
Each curriculum builds upon a solid foundation in mathematics, science, and electrical or software engineering fundamentals to introduce wireless communications theories, devices, circuits, systems, networks, standards, management, and applications. Design experience is interwoven throughout the curriculum by introducing basic design concepts early, emphasizing hands-on design experiences in the laboratories, including effective use of computers and other modern engineering tools, and culminating with a capstone design project in the senior year. In addition to its technical aspects, the curriculum emphasizes oral and written communication skills, the importance of business, economic, social and global forces on engineering, appreciation of the need to maintain the highest ethical standards, and the maintenance of professional competence through continued self-improvement after graduation.
Wireless Software Engineering Curriculum Requirements
