Engineering and Applied Science
Why Study Engineering and Applied Science?
Caltech's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Engineering and Applied Science (EAS) degree program lets you design your path across multiple scientific and engineering fields. This major equips you for innovative research and professional leadership, with specialized expertise to tackle engineering, computing, or theoretical challenges as you work toward your goals, all built on a solid foundation in fundamental sciences.
The curriculum emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and innovative engineering design, cultivating inventive problem-solving to address the world's most pressing issues. EAS links our researchers, who formed the basis for AI image recognition, with engineers who want to calculate ways to develop cameras differently to optimize them for AI consumption, which may look different from the photos we take for human consumption.
Why Engineering and Applied Science at Caltech?
Imagine co-developing cutting-edge interactive visualization systems with NASA/Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) and Caltech scientists to explore vast datasets, validate hypotheses, and uncover new insights into planetary exploration or climate science. Or, consider designing novel materials with advanced mechanical and sensing properties for soft robotics, wearable health devices, or innovative shock absorption solutions.
A cornerstone of this program is its design focus—creating solutions rather than merely analyzing them. Caltech actualizes this knowledge in applied engineering through numerous research centers for autonomous engineering, climate modeling, quantum information and matter, space studies, sustainability, nanoscience, and more. You'll engage directly with faculty across fields like aerospace, materials science, computing and mathematical sciences, electrical engineering, environmental science, and mechanical and civil engineering, preparing you to contribute meaningfully to our era's complex and interdisciplinary challenges.
What You'll Learn
As an engineering and applied science major, you'll sharpen your scientific thinking, applying logical precision, inventiveness, and systematic reasoning to intricate problems. By the end of your first year taking the Institute's core in math, computing, sciences, and humanities, you'll be paired with an academic adviser to map out the next three years of personalized study. The EAS option necessitates a year of applied and computational mathematics and a specific number of units from diverse engineering and applied science disciplines.
Based on your curiosity, learn how to build parts that enhance the capabilities of lifesaving medical devices—and write equations that program robotic arms to build them for you. The curriculum culminates in a significant design experience, either a senior thesis or a capstone design project. This interdisciplinary pathway ensures you grow rich interconnected skills alongside fundamental engineering principles. You'll also refine your communication abilities, preparing you to articulate complex ideas effectively to technical and general audiences.
View the Caltech catalog for degree requirements and curriculum information.
Who You'll Learn From
You'll learn from a distinguished group of over 70 professors and active researchers across Caltech's Division of Engineering and Applied Science, plus gain access to experts across their global networks. These leaders in research and design cover a vast array of specializations, from computer science to environmental engineering. They actively engage in research that shapes future technologies, supported by a collaborative environment where direct classroom interaction facilitates undergraduate participation in cutting-edge research projects.
We want our students to learn how to think like scientists, how to apply logic and reason to questions, how to apply innovations, creativity, and curiosity to world problems that are plaguing the world. We don't operate in silos. It's really that whole reaching out, connecting with different folks, and identifying what the challenges are, as well as being able to work well with others.
Career Possibilities
Engineering and applied science majors are well-equipped for careers in research and industry, navigating rapid tech advancements and complex problems. With a strong foundation in interdisciplinary research and scientific problem-solving, you'll develop in-demand skills valued in various sectors, particularly in bioengineering and medical engineering. Drive innovation in fields including:
- Remote sensor engineering for health monitoring
- Nanophotonics and space solar power
- Advanced materials engineering (sustainable materials, semiconductor design)
Graduates also go on to pursue advanced degrees, including PhDs in materials science, applied physics, mechanical engineering, bioengineering, and applied engineering with a focus on environmental or civil engineering, for example.
Curriculum Components and Prerequisites
Caltech's Engineering and Applied Science (EAS) major curriculum is built upon the Institute's foundational core STEM coursework. Your first year will be common to all Institute students, with elective subjects available to introduce you to various engineering and applied science aspects. Choose an optional focus on materials science, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, astronomy, or another field.
Specific requirements for the EAS option include:
- Core requirements in differential equations, probability and statistics, waves, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics
- Completion of a computer programming course or demonstrated proficiency
- Advanced courses in applied and computational or pure math
- Additional units of EAS courses in areas including applied physics, bioengineering, computational and neural systems, astronomy, environmental science and engineering, and more.
- Fulfillment of laboratory courses
- Fulfillment of a depth requirement through an approved area of concentration or customized course of study
Pursue a Bachelor's in Engineering and Applied Science at Caltech
Caltech's BS in Engineering and Applied Science degree program offers a flexible yet rigorous environment for you to develop your technical skills and transform ideas into world-changing innovations on research and engineering teams.