Applied Engineering Degree Program

Graduates from selected ECTC degree programs can earn a bachelor's in Applied Engineering from UofL in as little as 2 years

About the Program

The Applied Engineering program combines classroom learning, lab-based training, and extensive industry experience to prepare graduates for careers in automation, robotics, logistics, manufacturing, and more.

Hands-on learning plus industry partnerships ensure you graduate ready to contribute from day one.

Classes will be scheduled in the evening so you can keep working while earning your degree! Classes are taught in your backyard at the newly opened ECTC Glendale Training Center.

Key Features:

Evening class schedules so you can work while earning your degree.
Flexibility to transfer from AAS programs like Electronics Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or Electrical Technology.
Opportunity to earn a Bachelor’s in as little as 2 additional years.

Why Applied Engineering?

High-Demand Jobs – Kentucky’s growing industrial base needs skilled professionals.
Real-world Paid Industry Experience – One year of real-world industry experience built into the degree.
Higher Earning Potential – Advance from a technical degree to an engineering career with competitive pay.

Educational Experience

Applied engineering curricula are built around experienced-based learning, with approximately 50-60% of coursework taking place in laboratory settings using state-of-the art industrial grade technologies. In addition to technical content, applied programs frequently integrate managerial and leadership preparation alongside engineering coursework preparing them for careers as future plant managers, operations and/or sales.

Both applied engineering and traditional engineering graduates are critical to the success of modern industry. Traditional engineers drive innovation through product design, while applied engineers ensure those innovations can be implemented, automated, tested, manufactured, and continuously improved at scale.

Track in Automation & Robotics

Focused Studies:
Industrial Robots, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Mobile Robotics, Machine Vision, Power Conversion & Control, Analog & Digital Electronics, Solid Modeling & Rapid Prototyping, Management & Organizational Behavior, Quality & Lean Systems, and Project Management & Process Improvement

Flight Plan & Curriculum

ECTC Years (1-2):

Core classes in electronics, robotics, automation, motor controls, CAD, and digital devices.
Completion of foundational AAS degree requirements.

UofL Years (3-4):

Advanced courses in robotics, mobile robotics, engineering methods, quality systems, and project management.
Key courses include ENGR 100/101, CSE 130, AE 321, AE 431, IE 370, and AE 499 Industry Experience capstone.

Location & Schedule

Location: ECTC Glendale Training Center
Schedule: Evening classes for working professionals

Admissions & How to Apply

Apply to ECTC for the first two years.
Transfer seamlessly to UofL for the final two years.