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South Dakota Mines combines the Departments of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Engineering into one department.
The new Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) will keep all major courses of study non-stop and foster more multidisciplinary collaboration between students and faculty researchers.
Jeff McGough, Ph.D., professor and current head of the computer science and engineering department, will head the new EECS department.
“We’re very excited about coming together,” McGough said. “It allows for greater collaboration between teachers and students. We have many opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and improve our support for our students.
Modern technology, whether it’s artificial intelligence, machine learning, avionics, or designing a new smart electrical grid, requires multidisciplinary collaboration. The new EECS department at Mines will improve connections between faculty and students to best utilize innovation and research funding.
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“Electrical engineering, computer engineering, and computer science as majors are naturally appropriate here on campus and outside the industry. Our students will be able to take advantage of a wide range of classes to tailor their degree to their interests. and ability, all while remaining in one department, ”said Tom Montoya, Ph.D., associate professor and current interim head of the Department of Electrical Engineering.
The world-class education of mines in these fields of study will continue, and students in the new EECS department will not see any change in their course in undergraduate and graduate programs, minor or specialists. The merger will make it easier for students to double majors or pursue minors throughout programs. Students will also see enhanced research and team -based problem -solving opportunities that better reflect the modern industrial environment where multidisciplinary groups of engineers, scientists and professionals work toward the same goal.
“This merger brings together two strong academic departments to make the programs more robust, which will further benefit our students. It also increases efficiency and conserves resources while increasing productivity. our potential for collaboration. I’m excited to see the innovations and research opportunities that come out of this reorganization, ”said Mines President Jim Rankin.
