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Pre-Engineering

Start your engineering education in EIU’s small, supportive classes before transferring to complete your bachelor’s degree at an engineering university. This two-year pathway builds a strong foundation in mathematics, science, computing and engineering while helping you prepare for your intended field and transfer destination.

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Pre-Engineering

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Degree Level
Non-Degree Transfer Pathway
Delivery
In Person
Time to Degree
4 Semesters
Credit Hours
67 Total, 67 in Major
Careers
Architectural, Managers, Technology, Engineers
Pre-Engineering students at EIU

Why Study Pre-Engineering at EIU?

  • Begin your engineering education in smaller, faculty-taught classes and laboratories
  • Complete a rigorous 67-credit foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computing and engineering
  • Work individually with the Pre-Engineering Coordinator to plan for your engineering field and transfer destination
  • Explore different engineering specialties before completing your bachelor’s degree elsewhere
  • Build confidence with demanding STEM coursework in EIU’s collaborative, undergraduate-focused environment
"My experience at EIU could not have been better. While in the classroom, I got to learn from amazing, engaging faculty who helped build my skills and confidence, and outside of the classroom, I got to be part of an amazing community and make lifelong memories."
Joshua Northam
Pre-Engineering | Class of 2026
Joshua Northam, Pre-Engineering at EIU

Hands-On Experience

  • Conduct experiments in calculus-based physics and chemistry laboratories
  • Create technical drawings through computer-aided engineering coursework
  • Develop programming and computational problem-solving skills in computer science
  • Apply engineering principles through courses in statics, dynamics and electronics
  • Pursue faculty-mentored research and other collaborative STEM experiences
Hands-On Experience, Pre-Engineering students at EIU

What You'll Learn

EIU’s Pre-Engineering program is a two-year, 67-credit, non-degree pathway for students who plan to transfer and complete a bachelor’s degree in engineering at another university. It is a strong fit for analytical, curious students who enjoy mathematics, science, technology and solving complex problems.

View in Catalog
$155,157
Median Salary 4 Years After Graduation

Career Outcomes

  • Architectural & Engineering Managers
  • Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology &…
  • Energy Engineers
  • Mechatronics Engineers
  • Microsystems Engineers
  • Photonics Engineers
  • Robotics Engineers
  • Nanosystems Engineers
  • Wind Energy Engineers

Career Insights

Job Outlook Average Outlook Grow Rapidly
Preparation Needed Considerable (4/5)
Personality Fit Realistic

Connect With Us

Jie Zou
Pre-Engineering Program Coordinator, Professor
jzou@eiu.edu
2460 Physical Science
217-581-3220
Jie Zou Message Jie

Message Jie

or email jzou@eiu.edu directly
Andrew Mertz
Department Chair and Professor of Computer Science
aemertz@eiu.edu
3619
217-581-3828
Andrew Mertz Message Andrew

Message Andrew

or email aemertz@eiu.edu directly
Billy Panther
Head of Panther Pride
Old Main
217-581-2223
Billy the Panther Message Billy

Message Billy

or email billy@eiu.edu directly

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