PhD student at ETH in Zurich, Switzerland, at the Automatic Control Laboratory
The most unique part of the Mathematics and Engineering program is the opportunity to dive into the theory that forms the foundation of engineering applications. In many engineering programs, the focus is on the "how", in that they are largely concerned with implementation and application of methods. Math and Engineering really focuses on the "why", rigorously studying the mathematical theories that govern engineering systems. That's not to say the program is entirely theoretical, as there are many opportunities through the specialization-specific courses to learn about the more applied side of engineering, but the emphasis is always on critically examining the fundamentals.
To me, the benefit is not that you memorize a bunch of theorems, even though the technical content of the courses will certainly teach you much about different fields of mathematics. Rather, the greatest benefit is the way in which the program teaches you to think: critically, logically, and rigorously. It rewards questioning, and leaves little room for things to be "swept under the rug". As such, it's the ideal program for students who not only enjoy math, but more importantly enjoy solving hard problems.
The program is particularly well-suited to those who want to work in research, whether that's in academia or industry. You need this kind of critical thinking when you're trying to invent new methods, and not just apply existing ones.
"My studies i nthe Math and Engineering program, both at the Bachelors and Masters levels, were integral to my success in academic and research so far."
Liam Cregg
I am currently pursuing my PhD at ETH in Zurich, Switzerland at the Automatic Control Laboratory, and the emphasis on mathematical rigor and critical thinking is absolutely necessary for engineering research at this level. Because of this, the Math and Engineering program has a very strong reputation among high-level research centres, including the Automatic Control Lab here at ETH.
Find out more about our undergraduate Math & Engineering program