Bachelor of Science in Electrical Power Engineering Technology

Just as oil is refined into gasoline, energy sources such as natural gas must undergo a conversion process to make electrical power. Improvements to electrical energy systems will drive the next revolution in generating, transmitting, and using electrical power, thus raising standards of living and better serving the environment. So join the revolution. Design, analyze and improve computer-based power generation, delivery, and end user systems. Study electrical motors and generators and their computer based controls, as well as alternative energy sources. Learn about electrical power generating, transmission and distribution systems, and electrical power protection systems. Learn how two manage electrical projects and practice by doing an electrical design project with a team of your fellow students. Learn about power electronics that make electrical energy systems more efficient and reliable. Along with learning the theory of electrical power systems, see how the electrical machines work by doing practical experiments with them in the power laboratory.

As in all modern enterprises digital computers are used to control and coordinate electrical generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as motors and other electrical loads. You will learn about microcomputers systems and the specialized programmable logic controllers used to control both industrial and electrical power equipment.

Power electronics is needed because as power comes from the power grid (or other electrical energy source such as a fuel cell) it must converted into the exact form necessary for the particular load. To convert the power the electricity is taken from the source, measured and electronically controlled using semiconductor switches, then filtered to configure it into the correct form, and finally deliver it to the particular load. Thus, power electronics is used to process electrical power into more usable forms for more efficient, lighter, and smaller power systems for controlling electrical power equipment such as electrical motors. The relevant aspects of power electronics is covered in both the power electronics course and the motor controls course.

Electrical power makes the modern world run, and our graduates help make it run better.

The Degree

A Bachelor of Science in Electrical Power Engineering Technology is offered through the College of Technology’s Department of Engineering Technology. This department prepares graduates for the practice of engineering technology related to product improvement, manufacturing and operational functions. Students analyze, apply, implement and improve existing and emerging technologies, and graduates combine knowledge of mathematical and natural sciences, the application of engineering principles and the implementation of technological advances for the benefit of humanity.

The Curriculum

The Electrical Power Technology curriculum includes: electrical and poly-phase circuits; digital circuits and systems; microprocessor architecture; programmable logic controllers and motor control systems; electrical power systems and industry practices; electrical machines; power system protection, power electronics and power quality issues, alternate/renewable energy systems; and project management and electrical system design. The University core courses provide the opportunity to improve writing skills, and experience courses in liberal arts. Mathematics and physics provide the background to help learn the electrical power course material.

Career after graduation

Students who graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Power Engineering Technology choose from a variety of careers in the electrical power control and applications, and design of electrical power systems and equipment.

Sample of Companies hiring Electrical Power Engineering Technology Graduates

Reliant Energy, Centerpoint, Toshiba International Corp, Fluor, Bechtel, Emerson, Cooper Bussmann, R&B Falcon, G. E. S&S Energy Products, Integrated Power Systems Corp., M. W. Kellogg, Powell Industries, inc., Hooks and Associates, Ross Hill–Anselmo, Oncor Electric Delivery, Matrikon International Inc., R. Stahl Inc., Burns and McDonnel, Dashiel Corporation.