Our Program: A New Era in Engineering Education

Innovation Engineering at Minot State University is structured around a unique micro-credentialing approach, designed to enhance student engagement, retention, and practical skill development.

Our program is divided into two halves, with the initial two years focusing on foundational engineering principles through four distinct "fundamental" micro-credentials. The latter two years are dedicated to advanced specialization, where students complete a 15-credit capstone sequence and pursue additional industry-focused engineering micro-credentials.

Fundamentals (Years 1 & 2)

The first two years are designed to provide a strong engineering foundation. Students will earn micro-credentials in:

• Fundamentals of Structures

• Fundamentals of Machines

• Fundamentals of Circuits

• Fundamentals of Materials

These fundamentals are supported by our novel approach of embedded prerequisites, which integrate essential math and physics directly into the engineering curriculum. You will take the supporting classes you need at the same time as your fundamental engineering classes, allowing you to immediately grasp the relevance of your coursework. The program also features "E-Studio" (Engineering Studio) courses, which act as learning communities that foster design skills, professionalization, and prepare you for internships.

Advanced Specialization (Years 3 & 4)

Building on the fundamentals, these years focus on advanced specialization through additional industry-focused micro-credentials and a capstone sequence. These specialized micro-credentials will be developed in close collaboration with regional industries.

For example, a student might choose the "Automation Engineering" specialization, which includes two micro-credentials:

• Physical automation systems and integration

• Digital control, data & system intelligence