New!!

Viterbo now offers a dual degree engineering program.  The typical student completes three years of coursework at Viterbo, and then transfers to an accredited engineering school to finish an engineering degree.  Upon completion of one year of coursework at the engineering institution, the student is retroactively awarded a degree in Mathematical Physics from Viterbo.  For more information, download the pdf undergraduate catalog and turn to the description of the pre-engineering programs.

Pre-Engineering

Engineering Articulations 

Is Engineering Right for Me?

From hammers to helicopters, screwdrivers to solar panels, nutcrackers to nuclear submarines, tools and technology have always been an important part of the human experience.  Informed and assisted by the power of cutting edge science and mathematics, modern-day engineers continue this tradition of innovation, design, and creation.  Do you love to tinker and build?  Do you find yourself taken in by the elegance of good design?  Do you enjoy solving problems?  If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a career in engineering may be for you. 

Pre-Engineering at Viterbo

The Viterbo University Pre-Engineering Program helps students to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to succeed in a rigorous engineering program at another college or university.  In your time here at Viterbo, you will learn and grow in an environment that is intellectually challenging, but friendly and intimate at the same time.  You will enjoy the benefits of small classes, frequent interaction with dynamic faculty members who are committed to teaching, and a unique focus on the liberal arts and ethics.  In this atmosphere, you will begin down a path toward becoming an engineer who is both technically skilled and keenly aware of the social, cultural, and environmental aspects of engineering. 

Pre-Engineering at a Liberal Arts University

Liberal arts disciplines like art, history, and literature might seem to be a world apart from high-tech engineering, but a closer look at history reveals a very different picture.  Engineers have always been heavily influenced by the times in which they live.  Philosophical ideas, religious beliefs, and artistic notions of beauty and elegance have played a surprisingly large role in the design of many of humanity's engineering marvels.  Indeed, it is close attention to cultural, ethical, and aesthetic considerations that often distinguishes exceptional engineering from that which is merely competent.  At Viterbo, you will have a rather unique opportunity to study the liberal arts as you prepare to become an engineer. 

The Pre-Engineering Course of Study

You must complete three semesters of calculus, two semesters of general chemistry, and two semesters of general physics.  You will probably take two semesters of English composition and literature, and one semester of differential equations, as well.  Outside of these core requirements, you can choose from a wide variety of electives, including courses in the humanities, computer science, and business.  You will also work with your advisor to figure out which engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, chemical, civil, environmental, biomedical, etc.) interest you most.  For students who come prepared to take calculus, the program can be completed in four semesters (two years).  If you must take one or more additional math courses before enrolling in calculus, you will probably need five or six semesters to complete the program. Click here for a typical two year, four semester sequence in the pre-engineering sequence. 

Enrolling in an Engineering Program

After you complete your pre-engineering course of study at Viterbo, you will apply to an engineering program at a school of your choice.  For most schools, you will have to go through the normal application process for transfer students.  It is important to realize that completing the Viterbo pre-engineering program does not guarantee admission into an engineering program; the schools you apply to will make their decisions based upon your application materials (essays, letters of recommendation, etc.) and your academic performance at Viterbo.  Students who have done well at Viterbo have enjoyed success in being admitted to strong engineering programs at schools like the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.  Once you are admitted into an engineering program, you will have two to three more years of study before you receive your bachelor's degree in engineering. 

Financial Aid

We offer a variety of generous financial aid packages, making Viterbo an exciting and affordable place to begin your journey to a successful career in engineering. 

Contact Information

If you think that Viterbo sounds like an exciting place to begin your engineering training, please contact us.  Our website (www.viterbo.edu) contains a wealth of information about academics, campus life, financial aid, and the admissions process.  We would also be happy to speak with you to learn more about your background and interests, answer any questions you have, and arrange a campus visit.  We look forward to hearing from you. 

Dr. Ward Jones, Natural Sciences and Mathematics Division Coordinator
608-796-3462
wmjones@viterbo.edu 

Dr. Anthony Gerig, Physics and Engineering Programs Coordinator
608-796-3475
algerig@viterbo.edu