The Engineering and Computational Sciences (ECS) Experience

As a student in Merrimack College’s ECS Experience, you’ll engage in experiential learning activities that apply theoretical knowledge from the classroom to practical, real-world situations. Experiences are relevant and beneficial to your academic and professional development. 

How the ECS Experience Works

  • You’ll participate in many different types of experiential activities and will earn points for each experience.
  • Each experience culminates in a reflective assessment, where you’ll evaluate your professional development and the skills acquired, bridging the gap between academic learning and hands-on experiences.
  • These reflective exercises are integral to your overall professional growth and will be done individually and in groups.
  • You’ll be awarded a pass/fail distinction after you complete the experience and the corresponding reflection activity.

ECS Experience: Experience Options

ECS EXPERIENCE: COMPETITIONS

Dive into a dynamic learning environment where you’ll engage with complex, real-world challenges through competitive design and innovation.

  • This program offers a platform for interdisciplinary teams to create cutting-edge solutions, from autonomous systems to robust mechanical constructs and complex coding problems.
  • Alongside sharpening your technical abilities, you’ll develop vital professional skills like leadership, teamwork, and strategic planning.

ECS EXPERIENCE: CO-OPS

You’ll explore the professional world through cooperative learning and engage in full-time, paid work experiences directly aligned with your academic interests and career goals.

  • This hands-on approach allows you to apply your classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, significantly enhancing your skill set and understanding of industry practices.
  • You’ll gain invaluable insights throughout your co-op, build a robust professional network and develop a competitive edge.

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ECS EXPERIENCE: ENTREPRENEURIAL VENTURES

In our e-venture program, we merge the worlds of technology and entrepreneurship within the engineering and computational sciences framework.

  • This course is designed to develop your entrepreneurial mindset through the lens of technology, guiding you to create market-ready, tech-driven solutions.
  • You’ll engage in product innovation, market analysis, and strategic business modeling under the mentorship of industry experts.
  • This hands-on experience sharpens your technical skills and instills a resilient entrepreneurial spirit, crucial for navigating the modern business landscape.

ECS EXPERIENCE: FIELDWORK

Through our fieldwork program, you can experience the practical application of engineering and computational theories. This course offers hands-on opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

  • Engage in activities like environmental data collection using advanced sensors or urban infrastructure projects employing computational modeling.
  • Through these immersive experiences, you’ll better understand how theoretical concepts are applied in practical scenarios, enhancing your problem-solving and analytical skills.

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ECS EXPERIENCE: INTERNSHIPS

Step into the professional world with our internship program, a gateway to real-world experience, where you’ll apply your academic knowledge in a practical work environment.

  • Engage in meaningful projects at leading companies, gaining hands-on experience in software development, engineering design, data analysis, and systems integration.
  • These internships are not just about gaining work experience; they are an opportunity to network with professionals, understand workplace dynamics, and refine your career goals.

building robots

ECS EXPERIENCE: PROJECTS

Embark on a journey of discovery and innovation with our project-based learning where you will take on real-world challenges, applying your academic knowledge to design and implement practical solutions.

  • Projects may range from developing software applications and engineering prototypes to creating computational models and devising efficient systems.
  • These projects provide a platform for creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, enabling you to develop essential skills for your future career.

Research and Creative Achievement Conference (RCAC), Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Merrimack College in North Andover, Mass. Photo by Mary Schwalm

ECS EXPERIENCE: RESEARCH

Dive into the world of inquiry and innovation with our research-focused program, which allows you to engage in cutting-edge research, contributing to advancing your field.

  • You’ll work closely with faculty and industry experts to explore complex questions using state-of-the-art methods and technologies.
  • Your research could involve artificial intelligence, sustainable engineering solutions, advanced computing, or advanced robotics.
  • This immersive experience enhances your technical and analytical skills and fosters critical thinking and independent problem-solving abilities.

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ECS EXPERIENCE: SERVICE LEARNING AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Engage with real-world issues through our service learning and community engagement program which integrates academic learning with community service, allowing you to apply your technical skills to address societal challenges.

  • Participate in projects such as developing sustainable community infrastructure, creating technological solutions for public health, or enhancing educational resources through computational tools.
  • This hands-on experience enhances your technical expertise and deepens your understanding of social responsibility and civic engagement.

Photographs by Mary Schwalm. Taken Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, with Global Merrimack in Iceland.

ECS EXPERIENCE: STUDY ABROAD

Expand your academic and cultural horizons with our study abroad program, which offers a unique opportunity to engage in specialized courses.

  • Opportunities range from week-long international travels to summer-long or semester-long studies at renowned international institutions, exposing you to diverse approaches and perspectives in your field.
  • This global experience enhances your cultural understanding, broadens your professional network, and develops your adaptability in a rapidly evolving global industry.