<< college of engineering home

Engineering, Science, Technology, and Society Courses
Beginning in fall 2005, the College of Engineering will offer a series of undergraduate courses discussing the impact of technology on society. From energy and wireless communications to nanotechnology … these courses will provide a basic understanding of the technical aspects of each subject while also addressing the ethical, economic, political, and environmental issues that engineers and non-engineers will face in the 21st century.
ESTS 40403
Nanotechnology: Opportunities and Challenges

This course will provide a comprehensive introduction to the emerging fields of nano science and nano engineering, with an emphasis on the main ideas and concepts.  Through directed readings and discussion, students will study the scientific underpinnings, and explore the societal impact and ethical implications of nanotechnology.  They will also explore the potential for nanotechnology to impact a wealth of innovative applications across a vast array of fields including healthcare, environment, biotechnology, energy and food production, information technologies, and aerospace

Detailed information on the course objectives and syllabus may be accessed from this link [http://www.nd.edu/~engineer/nano/]

ESTS 40401

Energy and Society

This three-credit course provides a comprehensive treatment of the role of energy in society and may be taken concurrently by engineering and non-engineering students. It proceeds along two parallel tracks, one dealing with the scientific/technical foundations of energy utilization and the other with its economic, political, environmental and ethical implications. Scientific/technical issues will be treated at a level that is appropriate for non-engineers and at the same time beneficial to both engineers and non-engineers. The required background in mathematics is largely confined to high school algebra, with occasional use of elementary concepts from differential and integral calculus.

Detailed information on the course objectives and syllabus may be accessed from this link [http://www.nd.edu/~engineer/energy/]

ESTS 40402

Wireless Communications: The Technology and Impact of Anytime/Anywhere Connectivity

This survey-style course offers an opportunity to gain a basic understanding of the technical, regulatory, and business aspects of the wireless revolution and its impact on society. It is intended for both engineering and non-engineering students. The course will include such topics as the representation, transmission and reception of information in electrical form, the physical properties of radio signals and other wireless media, the principles and challenges of sharing a common medium, and privacy and security issues, as well as the social and commercial implications of wireless communications.

Detailed information on the course objectives and syllabus may be accessed from this link [http://www.nd.edu/~engineer/wireless]