Hardware? Software? System Automation? these components fit together to create the increasingly complex world in which we live.
Major Details
Hardware… Software… System Automation… these components fit together to create the increasingly complex world in which we live.
A degree in Computer Engineering Technology from Minnesota State College Southeast in Winona spans hardware, software, and system automation. This degree is designed to prepare you for a challenging career in programming, data analysis, and system integration.
The two-year associate of applied science degree combines the foundations of electrical hardware, the nuances of programming, and the rigors of process control. Courses are taught on campus in Winona and online.
The curriculum includes AC, DC, and digital circuits, database generation, and programming of microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers, and commercial languages such as C++ and JAVA.
This degree gives students the opportunity to go into computer hardware, software, and industrial automation positions that require coding, database analysis, and Internet of Things (IOT) connectivity.
You'll complete the Computer Engineering Technology Associate of Applied Science degree by working with faculty to design a capstone course that will demonstrate your ability to solve a programming or computer engineering problem. Projects may range from custom purpose robots to automated data processing applications.
Apply now for admission to MSC Southeast
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Courses
1) Must complete a minimum of 3 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences.
2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Goal 4: Mathematics
Choose one
Goal 4 course. MATH 1220 College Algebra is suggested. (If transferring to a 4-year college, MATH 1225 Pre-Calculus is preferred.)
3 cr
ECON1210
Survey of Economics
This course is a survey of microeconomic and macroeconomic principles illustrated by a discussion of current economic policies, issues, and problems. The private enterprise system, demand-and-supply, and market interaction; business costs and prices, forms of competition, resource markets; the mixed economy (Meets MnTC goals 5 & 8) (Prerequisite: A minimum score of 86 in the Elementary Algebra section of the ACCUPLACER basic skills test or successful completion of MATH0544 or MATH0533 or MATH0522 and FYEX0100) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
ENGL1215
College Writing I
This course involves expository writing based on experience, direct observation, research and reading with emphasis on critical thinking skills, rhetorical strategies, and style. (Meets MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisites: Writing College Level Placement or successful completion of ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
MATH1230
Introduction to Statistics
This course emphasizes the concepts and methods of statistics. Statistics is the study of how to collect, organize, analyze, and interpret numerical information from data. Statistical methods will be presented with a focus on understanding both the suitability of the method and the meaning of the result. Statistical methods and measurements will be studied in the context of a broad range of practical applications that require decision making. (MnTC Goal 4) (Prerequisite: MATH1035 or MATH1020 or MATH1015 or Algebra College Level Placement or Statistics College Level Placement) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
COMC1730
Introduction to Programming with .Net
This course introduces programming concepts using Microsoft's .Net framework. Course includes: form layout, event-driven Windows and WebForms programming concepts, variables and data types, variable and control initialization, operators, objects and properties, control structures (if-else, for & while loops), arrays, functions, properties, parameter passing, source control, and unit testing. No previous programming experience is required. (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
COMC2722
Database Design & Management with SQL
Structured Query Language (SQL) is the standard language for defining, maintaining, and querying relational databases on all platforms from mainframes to microcomputers. This course covers relational database design and implementation using SQL. Topics include: select and sort queries, multiple table queries, subqueries, outer joins, aggregate functions, table updates, database design, entity-relationship (E-R) modeling, normalization, and database implementation, modifications & administration. (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
COMC2740
Introduction to Java / C/ C++ Programming
This is the first in a series of courses on programming in Java, C, C++, and C# languages. Topics include: Java/C/C++/C# program structure, data types, control structures, functions, parameters, scope, unit testing, class definitions, methods, fields (instance variables), loops, input-output, arrays, iteration, pointers, and IoT devices. (Prerequisite: COMC1730 or instructor permission) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
COMC2742
Java/C++/C# Programming II
This course covers object oriented programming concepts using the Java, C#, and C++ languages. Topics include: class declarations, class methods and attributes, creating and using objects, constructors and destructors, function overloading, passing object references as function arguments, class inheritance, memory allocation, object associations/aggregate objects, exception handling, exception classes, unit testing, MVC architecture, FXML GUIs, XML and/or JSON deserialization, IoT microcontrollers, UML, and source control. (Prerequisite: COMC2740 or instructor permission) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
COMC2747
Database Application Development
This course introduces database application programming techniques for web-based clients. Topics include: application architecture, C# language, ADO framework (connections, commands, data readers, data adapters, data sets, etc.), .Net Core MVC, domain models, code-first database implementation, controllers, routing, action methods/parameters, views, user interface design & implementation, multiuser concepts, lamda expressions, Entity Data Model, retrieving/updating data using LINQ to Entities, source control. (Prerequisite: COMC2722) (Corequisite: COMC2742) (4 credits: 3 lecture/1 lab)
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4 cr
COMC2999
Computer Engineering Technology Capstone
Students will devise capstone projects integrating their coursework in electronics, programming, automation, and system integration. Projects will be vetted through their academic advisor and will be presented to the class at the end of the semester. The course will require specification of design requirements, outline integration of technical solutions, and map how the project relates to both industry and their program curriculum. Completion of COMC 2754 will meet the completion requirements for COMC 2756. (2 credits: 1 lecture, 1 lab) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
ELEC1202
Introduction to DC Electricity
This course covers the general information, theory, and problem-solving techniques required for an analysis of DC circuits with emphasis on the meter measurements, current flow, and voltage division. (Prerequisite: Proficient in basic math) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
ELEC1204
Introduction to AC Electricity
This course covers the general information, theory, and problem-solving techniques required for an analysis of AC circuits. Topics include: AC waveforms, oscilloscope operation, meter measurements, and AC vs. DC comparisons. (Prerequisites or Concurrent: ELEC1202, proficiency in basic math)
(2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
ELEC1209
DC Theory & Circuits
This course covers the study of Ohm's Law, Kirchoff's Law and network theorems, with an emphasis on the theoretical concepts as related to electricity/electronics. The application of DC theory through laboratory experiments are also examined. Instruction in the operation of basic test equipment is used to provide verification of topics and to reinforce the theory. (Prerequisite or Concurrent: ELEC1202) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
ELEC1212
Digital Electronics I
Students will learn about basic digital gates and how to use those gates to develop combinational logic circuits. Experimentation with digital circuits will aid in the reinforcement of the fundamental digital concepts. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
ELEC2211
Digital Electronics II
Digital electronics are so widely used that it is almost impossible to think of electronic equipment without them. Digital circuits have greatly improved electronic methods and have given practical electronic equipment amazing compatibility. In this course you will learn how advancements in digital IC technology reduce the size of complex circuits. We will explore counters, shift registers, and others to build complex digital circuits. (Prerequisite: ELEC1212) (4 credits: 2 lecture/2 lab)
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4 cr
ELEC2221
Programmable Controllers
This course covers the operation of programmable logic controllers. The hardware and software aspects of the controllers will be explored in the lab. The basic ladder diagram, timer, counter and sequencer instructions will be covered. Additionally, advanced operation and programming of programmable logic controllers, including greater depth of programming, HMI development, and I/O through laboratory instruction will also be covered. Communication between the PLC and Human Machine Interface will also be covered in depth. The master control, data manipulation and control instructions will also be explored. NOTE: This course is equivalent to the combined ELEC 2218 and ELEC 2219 course series. (Prerequisites: ELEC1202, ELEC1204, and ELEC1212 or permission of instructor) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
ELEC2230
Microcontroller Applications
This course will introduce the student to Raspberry Pi. The student will configure the Raspberry Pi microcontroller to read switches and drive output devices. Students will explore the features and benefits of single chip systems. The student will build, an instructor approved, final project. (Prerequisites: ELEC2211, NWAT1641 or Instructor Approval) (5 credits: 3 lecture/2 lab)
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5 cr
NWAT1641
Networking Fundamentals
This course will provide students with the technical skills necessary to securely establish, maintain, and troubleshoot networks that businesses rely on. Students will gain experience with networking fundamentals, network implementations, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Network+ industry certification. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2673
Linux Operating Systems
This course will provide students with an introduction to the Linux operating system and basic administration tasks so they can manage everything from cars and smartphones to servers and supercomputers as a vast number of everyday technology runs on the Linux operating system. Students will gain experience with key features including hardware & software configuration, system operation & maintenance, security, troubleshooting, and automation. This course aligns with CompTIA Linux+ industry certification and will help prepare students to take the exam after completing the course. (Prerequisites: NWAT1601, NWAT1602) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
Total Credits Required for this Major: 60 Credits
Estimated Costs for this Major
| Approximate Tuition/Fees: | $13,661 |
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| Minimum Tool Cost: | N/A |
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| Books/Supplies: | $1,300 |
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| Estimated Total: | $14,961 |
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Career Opportunities
- Computer Engineering Technician
- Software Development and Support
- Computer Programming
- Database Analysis
- Industrial Automation
Career Information
Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.
Outcomes
Program graduates will be able to:
- Understand the foundations of electronics, including digital logic, alternating current, and direct current.
- Configure, troubleshoot, and program microcontroller based hardware, including programmable logic controllers.
- Understand programming environments spanning ladder logic, C++, JAVA, SQL, and VB.net.
- Comprehend the interface between electronics hardware, analog and digital inputs, and backend programming, bridging the software/hardware divide.
Highlights
- State-of-the-art electronic and industrial automation laboratories
- Hands-on electronics and automation curriculum
- Remote courses for database and commercial programming language instruction
- Opportunities for internships throughout the industry
- High demand employment outlook
Instructors
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Mark Degallier
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Mark Degallier brings more than 30 years of web development experience to Minnesota State College Southeast. He has taught online at community colleges for more than ten years. As an independent contractor for over 15 years, Mark brings real-world experience to his teaching. Mark is a Winona native and holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from the University of Northwestern in St. Paul. He volunteers with Big Brothers/Big Sisters and enjoys spending time outdoors and painting in watercolor
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Ben Garbers
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Ben Garbers has over 20 years of experience spanning engineering, manufacturing, and R&D. When not teaching for MSC Southeast, he works on HVAC systems engineering projects as a Project Manager with Ingersoll Rand/Trane Corporation. He has also worked as an engineer with IBM and taught engineering and programming at both the high school and college levels. He holds a Masters in Software Engineering from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse and has numerous patents and publications to his name.
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Marc Kalis
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Marc Kalis received his Electronics Diploma from Austin Technical Institute (Riverland Community College, Austin Campus) and currently holds a license in Electronics Technology for the State of Minnesota. Marc has experience in a variety of electronic areas which include but are not limited to: medical equipment repair, industrial controllers, networking, computers and mobile electronics. He is an IPC-A-610 Class “A” Instructor (solder joint inspection), a J-STD-001 class “A” Instructor (Solder Application Specialist, and a Mobile Electronics Certified Professional.
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Enrique Mendoza
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Enrique Mendoza is a seasoned IT professional with over 20 years of software engineering experience. He has worked for Fortune 100 companies in the areas of performance engineering, software design, and architecture. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering from the Monterrey Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in Information Systems from the University of Phoenix. In his free time, he enjoys reading science fiction novels, coaching soccer, and playing board games.