Case Study: Michigan State University achieves stronger computational problem‑solving skills and industry readiness with MathWorks' MATLAB and Simulink

Michigan State Integrates MATLAB into Engineering Curricula to Foster Student Proficiency in Problem-Solving Using Computational Tools

Michigan State University faced a curriculum challenge when ABET assessments showed students underperformed in applying math and computing tools to engineering problems and lacked confidence using computational software. To address this gap and better prepare graduates for industry, MSU adopted MathWorks' MATLAB platform (along with Simulink and the Symbolic Math Toolbox) as the environment of choice for undergraduate engineering problem‑solving.

MSU integrated MathWorks' MATLAB and Simulink across required courses—students use MATLAB at least once per year, faculty received training and resources, and authentic, progressively complex problems were introduced. As a result, assessment scores rose to meet or exceed program thresholds, students reported higher confidence and greater industry readiness, and instructors were able to teach more advanced material earlier thanks to the common computational foundation provided by MathWorks.

Michigan State University

Jon Sticklen

Associate professor and Director