First-Year Engineering Program (FEP)

FEP is a one-year program designed to successfully transition students into engineering or engineering technology majors. Rather than starting in a specific program (i.e. Chemical Engineering), FEP students have the flexibility to decide what they want to study later in their college experience. 

After one to three semesters in CEAS, FEP students can apply to transition to their major of choice as long as they meet the FEP Criteria. The Department of Engineering and Computing Education provides FEP students with unique opportunities, resources, and support networks to encourage successful transitions into their best-fit major.

When CEAS refers students to FEP, it is because we know they can graduate with degrees in engineering and engineering technology. Sometimes, we cannot offer academically strong students admission to their top choice CEAS majors; when this happens, we offer them spots in FEP to ensure that they have the support and resources necessary to graduate from CEAS.

FEP students are guaranteed admission to all CEAS programs if they meet the FEP Criteria. 

The First-Year Engineering Program Academic Advisors advise fewer than 200 students each year compared to a 400:1 college-wide ratio. This means that the FEP Academic Advisors can provide a high-level of individualized support, proactive advising, and success skill development during students’ first years. In addition, every FEP student is assigned to a faculty Career Mentor who serves as an additional guide during their first year at UC. 

The First-Year Engineering Program is housed in the Department of Engineering and Computing Education in CEAS; this means that FEP students are already in the College of Engineering and Applied Science. FEP students are included in all college communications, events, and activities. 

All students, whether you're set on your engineering or engineering technology discipline of choice or still exploring, will be well-supported on their journeys to find their best-fit majors at UC. Events like Engineer Your Major and resources such as My Majors are integrated into the FEP student experience to help students get the most out of their time in the program.

FEP students have up to three academic semesters to meet the FEP Criteria for their applied program(s). 

Check out the First-Year Engineering Program YouTube playlist for more detailed information about the program.