Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE)

Bachelor of science in engineering degrees are offered in all four of our departments. We also offer a minor in energy engineering for BSE candidates.

BSE in Biomedical Engineering (BME)

BME applies engineering science to problems in biology and medicine. Examples of BME projects include design of medical instruments for detecting or treating diseases, development of artificial organs and tissues, and formulation of nanoparticles for drug and gene delivery.

Study Areas

• biomechanics of blood flow, cells and hard and soft tissues
• molecular, cellular and biosurface engineering, including tissue engineering and drug delivery
• electrobiology of the heart and nervous system
• medical imaging systems and biomedical optics
• and medical informatics

BSE Programs in Civil & Environmental Engineering (CEE)

Civil and environmental engineers plan, design, manage, and maintain the construction and operation of systems that support our society. These engineers often work on large-scale public works projects such as bridges, dams, levees, buildings, airports, water and waste treatment centers and sanitation plants. Such engineers are developing new treatment methods to combat pollution in air, water and soil. They solve complex problems and work to balance the needs of growing human populations and the environment, addressing the challenges of pollution, traffic congestion, drinking water and energy needs, urban redevelopment and community planning.

Study Areas

• civil engineering--structural engineering and mechanics
• civil engineering--environmental engineering and water resources
• environmental engineering

BSE in Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE)

Electrical and computer engineers encompass the largest engineering work force in the U.S. These engineers design, develop, test and supervise the manufacture of electrical and electronic devices and systems such as iPods, cell phones, computers and networks, plasma displays and robots. Electrical engineers work on improving television and satellite transmissions, and are helping the military detect unexploded bombs. They also make contributions to medicine by improving or developing new analytical tools for doctors, or making cochlear implants for deaf persons more effective in interpreting sound. Computer engineers can specialize in digital systems, computer operating systems, networks, software and hardware.

Study Areas

• computer engineering and digital systems
• signal processing and communications
• solid-state devices and integrated circuits
• control systems and robotics
• electromagnetic fields
• photonics

BSE in Mechanical Engineering (ME)

Mechanical engineering is a broad and interdisciplinary field that integrates all of engineering in an undergraduate major. From bio- to info- to nano-technology, the mechanical engineer is involved in all of these as well as in the technology of major industries including transportation (automobiles, ships, air- and spacecraft), energy (production, distribution, turbomachinery, and windpower), and communication (from cyberspace to outer space).

Study Areas

• thermal and fluids systems
• mechanics and biomechanics
• dynamics, including nonlinear dynamics and control
• Special attention is given to the aerospace and transportation vehicle industries

Minor in Energy Engineering

Energy poses some of the greatest challenges of our time--from meeting growing demand to minimizing environmental impact of energy production. The Minor in Energy Engineering will prepare future leaders to solve these problems, offering Duke BSE candidates rigorous exposure to fundamentals of energy engineering.  Graduates will be well-prepared for careers focused on engineering solutions to energy-related issues.

Study areas:

• energy generation and delivery
• energy conversion and efficiency
• energy engineering and the environment