What is Engineering Technology?

Engineering Technology (ET) at the University of North Texas' College of Engineering offers degree paths to a career in engineering. There are over 100 institutions in the U.S. that offer similar degree programs. Common to all is the educational philosophy of using mathematics, science and engineering fundamentals in the analysis and implementation of technology-based solutions to engineering problems.

At the Department of Engineering Technology, we define “technology” as:

  1. any physical equipment, artifact, or hardware tool utilized in an engineering field (e.g., any device, instrument, machine, sensor/transducer/actuator, data acquisition/processing card, or materials);
  2. any software-based engineering simulation, analysis, or design tool; or
  3. any engineering design technique, process or algorithm described in a textbook, a patent, or any other scholarly or trade publication.

Therefore, our ET program is strongly based on advanced applications of technology to solve engineering problems. Our program introduces experiential learning activities in virtually every course and emphasizes hands-on laboratory activities without the abstract manipulation of mathematics.

In many circles ET is described as hands-on or applied engineering. ETEC graduates are in high demand and work side-by-side with other engineering graduates in a variety of technical fields.

Join ETEC at UNT, pursue an undergraduate ETAC/ABET-accredited degree or a graduate degree, and prepare yourself for the functional engineering tasks of design, re-design, technology implementation and evaluation, product and process improvement, and engineering system operation.

What will I learn here?

The Department of Engineering Technology at UNT provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in engineering technology and technical studies through exemplary faculty mentors, dynamic academic programs and real-world research. The broad curriculum includes traditional engineering technology classes along with opportunities to design, build, test, operate and maintain a range of systems and processes.

The engineering technology program offers small classes taught by experienced professors, which allows each student to get the most out of his or her education and get the best training. Additionally, our ET program recognizes the need for graduates to be well-rounded professionals and teaches students to be committed to ethics, diversity and social awareness in their endeavors.

To truly excel in engineering, you must specialize. Therefore, as a student in the Department of Engineering Technology, you will select a major concentration to pursue, which will equip you with specialized knowledge and skills necessary for your future career.

Majors and Certificates

Students in the Department of Engineering Technology select a major in one of the following areas:


Manufacturing Engineering Technology Certificate

The BSET in Mechanical Engineering Technology with the MEFT certificate will enhance your opportunities to advance toward a rewarding career in the manufacturing sector. Learn more about the program.

Nuclear Power Technology Certificate

Earn a Texas A&M Certificate in Nuclear Power Technology by taking 12 credits of NUET courses in Engineering Technology. The Certificate features online instruction from A&M and a face-to-face component here at Discovery Park.

BSET mathematics and science requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology has the following mathematics and science requirements:

Two Mathematics Courses:

  • MATH 1710 – Calculus I
  • MATH 1720 – Calculus II

Three Science Courses:

  • CHEM 1410 – General Chemistry for Science Majors
  • PHYS 1710 – Mechanics
  • PHYS 2220 – Electricity and Magnetism

Learn more about engineering technology courses:

What does it take to succeed here?

Engineers are creative, inquisitive, analytical and detail-oriented. They are able to work as part of a team and independently. Communication skills are also important, as you will be required to explain your work to others both orally and in writing. In preparation for this work environment, Engineering Technology students must also be open to a wide variety of engineering disciplines. The program therefore provides students the opportunity to work with engineering students from different departments in the college.