Systems Science and Engineering Major

PREPARES YOU TO DESIGN AND IMPLEMENT SYSTEMS THAT ASSURE EFFECTIVE OPERATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL SYSTEMS AS A WHOLE

The field of systems engineering was born at Penn in 1953 when the Moore School held a series of seminars to help industry address the growing complexity in military systems. Since then, complexity has become a central feature in many areas that directly affect national life. Designing effective systems in the face of growing complexity continues to be a high priority at Penn.

The Systems Science and Engineering (SSE) program specializes in those aspects of engineering that pertain to effectiveness of whole systems. In contrast to other engineering specialties which are grounded in certain aspects of science, system engineering is grounded primarily in mathematics and methodology. The core curriculum focuses on mathematical modeling and simulation, rather than on particular physical sciences. To assure that designs are responsive to real needs, students learn how to model, simulate, optimize, integrate, and evaluate systems.

Educational Objectives of the SSE Programs

The undergraduate program in Systems Science and Engineering strives to prepare students to:

• integrate fundamentals of systems science and engineering with design tools and methodologies to architect innovative solutions to complex technological problems;
• communicate effectively, excel in multi-disciplinary/multi-cultural teams, and value non-technical disciplines;
• pursue careers or graduate studies in systems engineering or their chosen field and engage in lifelong learning; and
• be recognized in their chosen fields for their leadership, integrity, and sensitivity to global societal issues.

SSE Sample Curriculum