The School of Engineering and Technology offers a Master of Science in Engineering Technology degree with an emphasis in Precision Agriculture. This STEM designated program (CIP 15.0613) prepares professionals who are knowledgeable about theories and leadership practices for technological applications in engineering-related fields. The program provides advanced coursework in planning strategies, continuous improvement, quality, and leadership. In addition, the program addresses the principles required for leading production and process related enterprises, which include, but are not limited to, mission, vision, strategic planning, leadership for production and process planning, lean thinking, decisionmaking, operations management, research and development, and intellectual property protection. 

Distinctive Features

• Coursework includes problem-based, technology centered leadership learning experiences.
• Experiences include designing experiments, preparing presentations and poster sessions, conducting studies that apply continuous improvement strategies and tools, preparing documentation of intellectual property, and working in a team building environment. These learning opportunities help students connect theories and principles with real-world professional practice.
• Opportunities are provided to participate in industrial work experiences (graduate internship), pursue independent studies, and perform independent research. Coupled with graduate coursework, the degree provides a balanced program of studies that may be designed to meet the individual needs of the student.
• Required in all coursework is technical writing that meets industry standards.

Why the ET Degree Program?

Graduates of the ET degree program are beneficiaries of the following:

• Nearly 100% placement
• Small student-to-faculty ratio
• Small class sizes
• Collaborative learning environment
• Industry certification opportunities
• High salaries
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Internship opportunities

Professional Certifications

Professional certification is available through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and/or the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Science (ATMAE). SME has the Certified Manufacturing Engineer and Certified Manufacturing Technologist certifications. ATMAE’s certifications are the Certified Manufacturing Specialist (CMS), Certified Senior Manufacturing Specialist (CSMS), Certified Technology Manager (CTM), and the Certified Senior Technology Manager (CSTM). In addition, a student can pursue a certification that matches his or her career path from the American Society of Quality (ASQ), LEED GP, or other recognized certification organizations.

Assistantship Opportunities

A limited number of graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis. Assistantships provide a full tuition waiver and monthly stipend. Undergraduate and graduate grade point averages, scholarship records, recommendations, and a personal statement provide the criteria for awarding assistantships. Contact the School of Engineering and Technology for Graduate Assistantship application materials.

Program Location

Macomb

Career Opportunities

The ET degree with a Precision Agriculture emphasis leads to career opportunities in:

• Agricultural Business
• Agricultural Education
• Agricultural Technology Management
• Farm Operations
• Precision Agriculture
• As well as general Business and Industry

The program is designed to allow professionals to keep abreast of changes in technology and allows those with a technical background to gain leadership experience at the graduate level prior to, or while, being employed full-time.

Internship Opportunities

Graduate students are afforded the opportunity to participate in an internship at the graduate level. The majority of students select a company that provides them with the opportunity to work in an area of expertise plus as an integral part of a leadership team. The internships can be completed during any term of the academic year.

Please refer to the graduate catalog for detailed program information and course requirements.

Program Curriculum

Core Courses (21 SH)

• ET 515 Eng Tech Design, Vis, and Diss (3 sh)
• ET 525 Management of Eng Tech (3 sh)
• ET 535 Eng Tech Leadership (3 sh)
• ET 545 Information Measurement Theory (3 sh)
• DS 503 Bus Stat for Mgt Dec Making (3 sh)
• ET 548 Planning Techniques for Leaders (3 sh)
• ET 590 Research Techniques (3 sh)

Directed Electives (6 SH)

• AGTM 471G Ag Remote Sensing (3 sh)
• AGTM 472G Ag Analysis & Dec Making (3 sh)

Exit Options (3 sh)

• ET 603 Comprehensive Exam (0 sh) and,
• ET 592 Independent Research (3 sh) or,
• ET 593 Professional Internship (3 sh) or;
• ET 601 Thesis (3 sh)

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the Engineering Technology degree with Precision Agriculture Emphasis must meet the admissions standards of the School of Graduate Studies. A bachelor’s degree in an Engineering related or Agriculture program with at least 15 hours of technical courses in the applicant’s major field of study is required. Students who have been awarded a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and have had less than 15 semester hours (sh) of coursework in technical areas may enroll in a two-phase program. Phase One consists of obtaining a total of 15 sh of Engineering Technology courses as proposed by the student and advisor and approved by the Department Graduate Committee. Phase Two is the completion of the program as outlined in the degree requirements below.

Students who wish to be admitted to the Master of Science in Engineering Technology degree program must meet the following entrance requirements:

1. Submit a completed application packet. All documents listed below should be sent directly to the School of Graduate Studies. Files will not be forwarded to the department until all materials are received:
   • Online application to the School of Graduate Studies
   • Two- to three-page essay addressing the topic “Why I want to be a leader in a technological world”
   • Three letters of reference
2. Graduated with a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university.
3. Completed at least 15 sh of technology-related coursework.

The GRE is not required for admission.

Degree Requirements

The degree requires completion of a minimum of 30 sh. All students must complete 21 sh of required core and 6 sh of directed elective courses plus the additional requirement of one of the following three exit options: (1) thesis plan, (2) professional internship plan, or (3) independent research plan.

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