What's the engineering design process like in college?

For those who've gone through an engineering program, can you explain how the engineering design process is taught and applied in college? I'm curious about the coursework and hands-on experiences involved.

Sure, the engineering design process in college typically involves a number of different elements, combining both coursework and practical, hands-on experiences.

In terms of coursework, many fundamental engineering classes introduce the basics of the design process. These include understanding the problem, doing a background research, specifying requirements, brainstorming solutions, developing, prototyping, and testing the solution. It will involve a mix of applied mathematics, physics, and domain-specific principles.

As part of your coursework, you'll also learn about the different tools, technologies, and methods that assist engineers in their design work. This could include Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, coding languages specific to your field of engineering, and analytical methods for assessing the feasibility and performance of your design.

Then, more advanced coursework and projects provide opportunities for deeper application of these principles. This could involve designing, building, and testing a prototype of a machine, device, or system. You will also often have to present your design in written reports, presentations or even pitches, as communication forms an important part of the engineering process.

One of the highlights of most engineering programs is the capstone project, typically in your final year. This is a semester or year-long project that involves tackling a complex, real-world engineering problem. Often, these projects are sponsored by industry partners, providing an opportunity to gain real-world experience, and to apply the full design process from initial idea to finished product.

Laboratory courses also offer hands-on experiences, providing an opportunity to work with real tools and technologies to design, test and analyze engineering systems.

In addition to academia, internships and co-op positions allow students to view the design process in a real-world setting. This immersion in industry often reinforces the principles taught in class, and allows students to see how their engineering design skills can be applied in a practical sense.

So, in essence, the engineering design process in college integrates rigorous coursework with practical application, to prepare students for a wide range of engineering roles.