Systems Engineering Major


Design and implement innovative systems.

Learn how to design, integrate and manage complex systems. You'll look at all aspects of a project or system. Study the best way to integrate these elements. You'll find jobs in a variety of engineering fields like mechanical, electrical, computer and industrial systems.

Why study systems engineering at the College of Charleston?

The world is complicated. There aren't one-size-fits-all solutions to today's industry problems. You will need to work on diverse teams. You'll need to understand global issues and be sensitive to cultural diversity. A liberal arts education will help you succeed in this environment. You'll have internship and mentorship opportunities. Work with companies like Boeing, Bosch, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Volvo. Your senior design project will steer you towards your first job.

What will I learn?

You will develop a strong foundation in engineering, science and math. You'll learn how to solve complex engineering problems. You'll develop important communication skills and understand ethical and professional responsibilities. You'll learn to collaborate. You'll gain critical thinking skills to analyze and interpret data.

View Curriculum: Systems Engineering

Program Highlights


This is a first-of-its-kind program. You'll gain a balance of skills for a high-tech field of study. You will receive a mix of hands-on laboratory and traditional classes. You'll be ready to make an impact in industry after graduation.
  • Hands-On Learning
    In this program, you will learn in a team-based environment. Work in the laboratory where you'll develop technical skills. You'll complete projects to apply what you learn in the classroom. Show these projects off to your future employer. Gain hands-on experiences in advanced manufacturing technologies areas like:
    • robotics.
    • factory Automation.
    • the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT).
    • 3D Vision.
    Study Abroad

    You have the option to study abroad in the UK and Ireland. You can take engineering courses in Scotland at Heriot-Watt University. You can also study engineering in Ireland at the National University of Ireland Maynooth. We recommend that you do this during your sophomore year. If you decide to study abroad, you can spend both semesters in the same country (either Ireland or Scotland) or study in Ireland one semester and Scotland the other.

  • Internship Opportunities

    You'll develop strong connections with local industries. Take part in internship and mentorship opportunities. Our students intern with organizations such as:
    • Boeing.
    • Bosch.
    • Mercedes-Benz Vans.
    • Volvo.

  • Senior Project

    You will complete a design project your senior year. This project lets you take a deeper dive into specific areas of systems engineering. You may focus on areas like mechanical, electrical, computer, industrial, simulation and more. The course will help steer you towards your first job.

Careers & Outcomes


Systems engineers are able to plug into a variety of technical roles on teams. Our graduates work to design, implement and maintain complex systems of hardware and software. They take an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. You'll be able to get a job in a variety of engineering fields. Examples include mechanical, electrical, computer and industrial systems.