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The Fundamentals in Engineering (FE) exam is a source of terror for many aspiring engineers. It’s the ultimate final, testing skills from every core competency students learn over the course of their degrees. Those who pass are taking the first step in becoming a certified licensed professional engineer (PE).
The exam is essential for civil engineering students who need to demonstrate their skills in preparation for designing structures that must serve the public and stand the test of time. Mechanical engineering majors don’t always need to take it, however. In this sector, it’s usually reserved for those hoping to enter “MEP” professions—construction mechanical, electrical, and plumbing careers. But it’s also a great way to launch a leadership career and prove that they have what it takes to sign off on complex projects.
“I want to go from a problem-solver to a decision-maker,” says Maggie Coombs, a senior in mechanical engineering. “I think the FE exam is a great way for me to solidify the knowledge I've gained as a student and help put me on the path to make a larger impact in the engineering field.”
Recently, students interested in the exam requested help from the department, and it came through. Back by popular demand, this is the second semester the ME 499 Special Topics course for the FE exam is offered.
“It’s a review course. Each exam topic gets its own week,” said Colleen Berg, instructor in mechanical engineering. She offers a mock subject exam every week and then reviews the topic’s highlights. They run the gamut from heat transfer and statics to ethics in engineering. “The point is for the student to be able to either say, ‘I’m good in this,’ or ‘I need to know more.’”
One of Berg’s favorite perks of the course is getting to bring in other professors for guest lectures in their respective specialties. “Students get to get reacquainted with their old favorite teachers.”
Another great perk? When the student passes the FE exam, the department will reimburse them for the course.
The semester-long special topics course is only offered on a pass/fail basis because it doesn’t teach any new material. It does offer a great overview of a student’s progress over the course of their degree. “It’s humbling in a way to realize how much you forgot,” said Berg. “But also, it’s wonderful to see how much you know and how far you’ve come.”
The course does not count toward a student’s degree. It might, however, just be the key that unlocks their career.