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Biometric Systems EngineeringMajor

Biometrics technology uses key tools in the areas of sensors, pattern recognition, algorithms, machine learning and cybersecurity.

By the numbers1

Only engineering-based undergraduate degree in Biometric Systems

Overview

What is Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU like?

Description

Biometric systems are composed of complex hardware and software designed to measure a signature of the human body, compare the signature to a database and render a decision for a given application based on the identification achieved from this matching process. Use of biometric systems for positive personal identification is experiencing rapid growth in such areas as law enforcement, access control, banking and a wide range of business and administrative systems.

In an even broader application context, biometric systems are having a revolutionary impact on health care and the enhancement of the human computer interface, including in vivo identification of specific human conditions via implantable devices and the automated administration of life-saving medical therapies.

The continued rapid advance of integrated sensor, signal/image processing, computer and mass storage technology promises to extend these applications further into our daily lives with even the most inanimate objects able to identify, interact with and assist their users.

Biometric Systems Engineering program highlights:

At a Glance

Next Steps

Interested in this major? Here are some suggested next steps:

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Areas of Emphasis

Tailor this major to your interests by taking courses in one of these areas:

  • Cybersecurity
  • DNA/Molecular Biology
  • Microsensors and Circuits
  • Signal Processing
  • Software Systems
  • Statistics

Fast Facts

What makes Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU unique?

Dual Major

This major offers the option to simultaneously complete a second bachelor's degree in:

Research and Academic Opportunities

WVU is the founding site of the Center for Identification Technology Research (CITeR), an NSF Industry University Cooperative Research Center. CITeR funds approximately $600,000 in research activities at WVU. Senior level and graduate students have the opportunity to approach faculty to work in these cutting-edge sponsored research projects.

Living-Learning Communities (LLCs)

Live, study and pursue outside-the-classroom learning in a residence hall community that shares your interests:

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU. Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Student Organizations

Connect with other students who share your academic interests as a member of:

View all of the student organizations you can join.

Careers

How does this degree prepare students for a career?

Biometric Systems graduates are in demand and placement rates are high. Northrup-Grumman, for example, has a summer internship program that has led to many employment offers and full-time jobs.

Possible Careers

Wondering what you can do with a degree from WVU's Biometric Systems Engineering major? Check out these ideas from WVU Career Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license.

Employers

Graduates from this major have gone to work at:

Courses

What are the courses like in Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU?

Plan of Study

Check out a program overview, learning goals, course descriptions and suggested plan of study for WVU's Biometric Systems Engineering major.

View the Plan of Study
 

Capstone Projects

Before graduating, all undergraduates in this major complete an academic project (or "capstone") to demonstrate their research, communication and critical thinking skills. Projects in WVU's Biometric Systems Engineering major have included:

Cost and Aid

How much does Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU cost? And how can you save?

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current West Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

West Virginia Resident
Per Credit $454
Per Semester $5,448
Fall and Spring Semesters $10,896
Non-Resident
Per Credit $1,200
Per Semester $14,400
Fall and Spring Semesters $28,800
International
Per Credit $1,200
Per Semester $14,700
Fall and Spring Semesters $29,400
Scholarship Chart

Estimate your eligibility for merit scholarships at WVU Morgantown.

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Net Price Calculator

Estimate your cost of attendance and eligibility for financial aid and scholarships at any WVU System campus.

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Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending WVU in addition to university scholarships.

Extra Merit-based Scholarships

Incoming freshmen to the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources may qualify for merit-based scholarships based on GPA and SAT/ACT test score. No additional application is necessary. These scholarships are in addition to University scholarships.

See if You Qualify

Transfer Articulation Agreements

To simplify the transfer process, we have formal agreements with certain institutions. These agreements outline the courses you should take to prepare for transferring to WVU.

Review the full list of transfer articulation agreements to see if your institution is listed.

Learn How to Transfer Course Credits

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU?

To be admitted to WVU's Biometric Systems Engineering major, first-time freshmen must meet WVU's first-time freshman admission requirements for the 2023-24 academic year. They also must meet one of the following admission requirements. Interested in transferring? Review the transfer admission requirements.

Engineering Requirements:
  • ACT Math: 19
  • SAT Math: 510
Engineering Requirements for Test Optional Students:
  • GPA: 3.00

If you don't meet the admission requirements for WVU's Biometric Systems Engineering major, check out some related programs.

Related Majors and Minors

What other options does WVU have?

What minors could I consider?

Related Pathways

What majors share similar career interests with this major at WVU?

Next Steps

I like this major. What are the next steps?

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Request Information

Want to know more about Biometric Systems Engineering at WVU? Fill out the Request Information form to receive more information about the program and life at WVU.

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Visit WVU

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