Engineering Breakthroughs of the 21st Century (Timed and Monitored)
- Course Number: M1003T
- Credits: 3 hours
- Instructor: Ellen Huang, PE
- Price: $30
Course Outline
The first quarter of the 21st century has produced major engineering breakthroughs that are reshaping advanced electronics, modern energy systems, and space exploration. This course examines four landmark technologies: the James Webb Space Telescope, extreme ultraviolet lithography, solar power with lithium-ion battery storage, and reusable rocket technology. Each topic represents a distinct frontier of modern engineering. Together, they demonstrate how engineers are looking deeper into the early universe, manufacturing nanoscale semiconductor devices, developing cleaner and more resilient energy infrastructure, and making space more accessible.
At the end of this course, there will be a multiple-choice, open-book quiz, which is designed to enhance your understanding of the course material.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Be able to describe how advanced materials, precision manufacturing, control systems, and power electronics enable major 21st-century innovations;
- Be able to explain the engineering principles behind advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, and complex technological systems;
- Be able to understand how energy generation, storage, and sustainability technologies are reshaping modern utility systems and industrial practices; and
- Be able to recognize the essential role of the engineering profession in advancing society, improving quality of life, and addressing global challenges.
Course Content
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