What should I look for in a curriculum when comparing engineering departments?
When comparing departments, first check whether the progression from mathematics and natural sciences to specialized subjects is clear, including prerequisites between courses. Then compare the availability and content of laboratories, practical training, design exercises, problem-based learning, and a graduation project, as well as the range of electives and when students can choose a specialization. Also use syllabi to compare teaching formats and assessment methods, not only whether the subject names match your interests.
Key points
- Check the progression from foundational courses to specialized study and the prerequisite structure.
- Compare laboratories, practical work, design, problem-based learning, and the graduation project.
- Look at elective breadth, when specialization choices are made, teaching formats, and assessment methods.
Things to check
- Course year, content, and availability can vary by university, department, and academic year, so check the official curriculum chart and syllabi.