Transferring to SEAS

Penn Engineering takes a hands-on approach that will help you see the human, scientific, and economic aspects of the field. Our program combines fundamentals of engineering and technology with a variety of courses in the arts and sciences to help you build a course of study that will support and define your career goals. 

The School of Engineering and Applied Science only admits transfer students applying to enter as second-year students, with one year of credit. 

Learn more about transfer policies and expectations from the School of Engineering and Applied Science. 

Curricular Requirements

As a student in the School of Engineering and Applied Science, you will likely take four or five courses per semester. In addition to your major, you will need to complete several courses across social sciences, technology in business, writing courses, and free electives.  

Please review the Courses and Requirements for Penn Engineering students to learn more. 

Academic Preparation and Choosing a Major

All transfer applicants to Penn Engineering will need to select a major when submitting your application. Penn Engineering undergraduate students pursue majors in either Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) or Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) programs. 

  • The BSE degree might be a good fit for you if you wish to practice engineering after graduation or if you are interested in more technical coursework relating to the engineering field.  
  • The BAS degree might be a good fit if you do not plan to work as a professional engineer after graduation but are still looking for a customized education that combines other interests and technology that aligns with your individual career goals. 

We recommend that you review the List of Engineering Majors to learn more about the major requirements, prerequisite coursework, and timeline for the program you are interested in before applying to the School of Engineering and Applied Science.  

Applicants to the School of Engineering & Applied Sciences should demonstrate they are academically prepared with the following coursework:  

  • One course in chemistry 
  • One course in physics (involving the use of calculus) 
  • One course in computer programming 
  • Two courses in calculus 
  • If possible, two courses in the social sciences and humanities 

You should complete a second course in physics if you’d like to major in bioengineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering and applied mechanics, materials science and engineering, systems science engineering, electrical engineering, or networked and social systems engineering. 

You should complete a second course in chemistry if you'd like to major in bioengineering, chemical and biomolecular engineering, or materials science engineering.