Brock University’s Integrated Engineering Program Prepares Students for the Challenges of Tomorrow

Brock’s Multidisciplinary Engineering Program Aims to Revolutionise Engineering Education in Canada

The Integrated Engineering program at Brock University is a cutting-edge and innovative program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. As one of only three universities in Canada to offer this program, Brock University combines elements from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education.

The Integrated Engineering program at Brock is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle various engineering challenges. The students’ early experiences often shape their educational decisions, and hence they are taught to think differently, as engineers do, using the same problem-solving methods employed in the field. One of the key courses in the program is the Fundamentals of Engineering Design, taught by Associate Professor Amir Mofidi. This course combines theoretical concepts with hands-on, experiential learning. This course enables students to engage in activities that deepen their understanding of engineering principles while developing practical skills crucial for their future careers.

Under this course, students participate in labs that cover topics such as 3D modeling and additive manufacturing, focusing on layer-by-layer production techniques. These labs help students build proficiency in design and prototyping, teaching them how to visualize complex structures, refine their designs, and prepare them for tasks like product development and construction management. The use of computer-aided design (CAD) and additive manufacturing in the labs closely mirrors industry practices in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and product design. Mofidi highlighted that these experiences not only help students grasp geometric transformations and spatial relationships but also allow them to create physical prototypes. This enhances their ability to convert theoretical models into functional, practical designs.

In addition to Mofidi’s course, the first-year curriculum for Integrated Engineering students includes a range of specialized courses such as physics, applied calculus, linear algebra, programming for engineers, and chemical principles and properties. Justin Pachikara, a student in Brock University’s inaugural Integrated Engineering program, has long had a passion for vehicles. He believes the car’s structural and aesthetic design must work together to enhance safety and performance. As part of Brock's innovative program, he is gaining a comprehensive understanding of engineering, integrating core mechanical, software, civil, and electrical engineering principles to address complex challenges across various fields.

The faculty at Brock University is known for being passionate and attentive. They consistently prioritise student input, which is quite valuable for students. Andrew Chahoud, another student in the program, shared that his early experiences significantly influenced his decision to pursue a career in engineering. He noted that the approach to problem-solving in the program mirrors the strategies professional engineers use in the field, demonstrating how real-world experience is woven into the academic curriculum.

Although Chahoud and Pachikara are only two months into the program, both students have expressed satisfaction with their choice to study Integrated Engineering at Brock as it is one of the top engineering schools in Canada. The Integrated Engineering program at Brock University offers a unique and comprehensive education, blending multiple engineering disciplines to equip students for real-world challenges. With hands-on learning opportunities and a focus on practical skills, it is well-positioned to shape the future of Canada’s engineering leaders.

Editor’s Note:

Brock University’s Integrated Engineering program stands at the forefront of innovative education, offering students a multidisciplinary engineering approach that blends mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. The program’s hands-on learning environment and focus on real-world problem-solving prepare students to address complex engineering challenges, ensuring their success in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. With passionate faculty and an engaging curriculum, Brock University is poised to become one of Canada’s top engineering schools. 

Skoobuzz anticipates that Brock University’s Integrated Engineering program will play a key role in shaping the next generation of engineers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation and solve real-world challenges.