Range of number of classes required for the same (ABET) major at different schools

[ucbalumnus]

@MAmomto4

We’re wondering–do the schools that require fewer classes pack more into each class? That would make the workload similar across schools for the same major. If that isn’t generally the case, schools that require you to take 3-4 engineering classes per semester as well as a couple of non-engineering classes are going to be a lot more challenging than schools that require fewer classes.

It may be better to make the comparison in terms of semester credit hour equivalents, since some colleges may have mostly 3 credit courses that students take 5 of each semester, while other colleges may have mostly 4 credit courses that students take 4 of each semester. Some colleges may also split labs off into separate courses (e.g. physics + physics lab instead of physics with lab).

For reference, the ABET minimum course / credit volume for engineering majors lists:

@ABET Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs

Criterion 5. Curriculum

The curriculum requirements specify subject areas appropriate to engineering but do not prescribe specific courses. The program curriculum must provide adequate content for each area, consistent with the student outcomes and program educational objectives, to ensure that students are prepared to enter the practice of engineering. The curriculum must include:

a. a minimum of 30 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of a combination of college-level mathematics and basic sciences with experimental experience appropriate to the program.
b. a minimum of 45 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of engineering topics appropriate to the program, consisting of engineering and computer sciences and engineering design, and utilizing modern engineering tools.
c. a broad education component that complements the technical content of the curriculum and is consistent with the program educational objectives.
d. a culminating major engineering design experience that 1) incorporates appropriate engineering standards and multiple constraints, and 2) is based on the knowledge and skills acquired in earlier course work.

Note that many ABET accredited engineering majors in practice require more than 75 semester credit hours or equivalent in technical (math, science, engineering) courses.

Note that ABET accredited computer science has different criteria from the above.