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About Our Program | Applied Engineering, College of Engineering, WSU

Applied Engineering Program

Discover the Applied Engineering Program 

In contrast to traditional engineering programs that place a greater emphasis on mathematical analysis of ideal systems, students in the Applied Engineering (formerly Engineering Technology) program gain hands-on experience coupled with theory in fundamental engineering concepts and select one or more of the below focus areas. 

Academic Focus Areas

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Graduates have skills in energy management, water/wastewater management, environmental infrastructure design, environmental design and pollution/waste prevention. Common job titles would be: Environmental Engineer, Sustainability Engineer, Sustainability Officer, Energy Manager and Energy Engineer.

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 Process Automation

Process Automation

ARM InstituteThe Process Automation track has been accredited by the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Institute. Graduates have training in automation, robotics, and process control. They may be called Applications Engineers, Control Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers, Field Engineers, Process Engineers, Robotics Engineers, Product Engineers, Safety Engineers and Sales Engineers.

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Engineering Management

Graduates can lead process improvement projects and are frequently found in management positions due to their coursework, training, and experience in mathematics, economics, statistics, financial accounting, operations management, quality management, and process control. Common management-related titles may also include: Engineering Managers, Facility Managers, Construction Managers, Team Leaders, Plant Managers, Project Managers, Supervisors and Technical Managers.

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 Engineering Management

Frequently Asked Questions

What do applied engineers do?

Applied engineers blend hands-on know-how and analytical skills to solve messy real-world problems. In industrial settings, applied engineers are broad thinkers who integrate a range of skills to enhance design, manufacturing and management, as well as many other engineering tasks.

What are examples of what applied engineers do?

Applied engineers may apply engineering design, mathematics, statistics and data analysis to:

  • Monitor system integrity and efficiency in water treatment.
  • Design and recommend energy management systems for industrial partners.
  • Apply innovative solutions for pollution prevention.
  • Execute production timelines and examine and/or establish quality control systems in production facilities.
  • Refine manufacturing and inventory supply chains, as well as use production innovation in enhancing management in manufacturing.
  • Ensure standards in accordance with federal and municipal codes in maintaining safety and health standards
  • Develop solutions for efficient industrial organization problems.
  • Apply marketing and business acumen in the product lifecycle and more. 

In what industries do applied engineers work?

Applied engineers are employed in a wide array of industries and are typically responsible for implementing a design or process improvement. Applied Engineers are prepared to take a project from design through implementation. They wear many hats in industry, commanding the necessary resources and personnel to contribute to an organization's bottom line.

What is the outlook for applied engineers?

Using the latest technology, combined with critical thinking skills, Applied Engineering students have the problem-solving skills necessary for the jobs of the future.

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