Capitol News

Michigan State University (MSU) has announced the introduction of its new Technology Engineering (TechE) undergraduate degree within the College of Engineering. The launch event, held on April 17 at the MSU STEM Teaching and Learning Facility, gathered attention from media, industry partners, and the campus community.

Interim Dean of the College of Engineering, John Papapolymerou, described the TechE program as a blend of mechanical, electrical, computer engineering, and computer science. “It’s always exciting to showcase how academia and industry can collaborate to prepare students for the complex challenges of our time,” said Papapolymerou. He emphasized the college’s role as a reliable talent source, noting that the new program reflects a commitment to maintaining this role.

Students enrolling in the program can choose concentrations in mechatronics, embedded cybersecurity, or pursue a minor in smart agricultural systems. The curriculum includes hardware cybersecurity, robotics, and other areas aimed at integrating technology with an engineering foundation. These subjects will be taught in contemporary labs focusing on practical, project-based learning.

Janet Brelin-Fornari, the director of Technology Engineering, addressed the increasing complexity in engineering. “Today, technology embeds itself into every aspect of modern life, and we must prepare engineers to navigate and solve the multifaceted issues of such an interconnected world,” Brelin-Fornari explained.

Launched in the fall of 2024, the TechE degree bridges gaps between engineering and computer science, directly responding to industry demand for engineers ready for practical challenges. David Sanders, a general manager at Microsoft and member of the TechE advisory board, shared his views on the program. “TechE fills a significant and growing void in the market,” Sanders said. He noted his confidence that the curriculum would equip graduates with essential skills.

The first class of TechE graduates is expected in 2026, poised to enter industries ranging from biomedical technology to aerospace engineering. The launch event highlighted comments from university officials and advisory board members, marking the program's official debut. Further information is available on the Technology Engineering website.