The Master of Science in Assistive Technology Engineering (ATE) prepares computer scientists and engineers for rewarding careers in the creation and production of intelligent devices and software for use not only by the aging and those with special needs, but also the general public.

By current estimates, more than 4,000 assistive technologies have been designed for the nation’s rapidly growing senior-citizen and disabled populations while advances in microelectronics are making many familiar assistive devices increasingly “smart.”

Offered in collaboration with CSUN’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, this program is taught by CSUN faculty together with disabilities and human services experts from CSUN’s world-renowned Center on Disabilities.

The two-year, 11-course program features classes held only one evening per week plus an occasional Saturday day-time meeting. Moreover, the program is taught in the cohort format which maximizes interaction with faculty and fosters the development of networking relationships with fellow participants.

Because the nation’s expanding population of older adults is accompanied by a growing burden of disability, the U.S Department of Labor predicts long-term growth in the areas of assistive, adaptive and access technologies. Computer scientists and engineers with training as creators of assistive devices and related software can only benefit from this trend both in terms of career satisfaction and income. According to a recent study, mechanical engineers with advanced degrees earn a nine percent premium over the nation’s average hourly wage of $40.43 for the profession.*

The Tseng College supports the CSUN International Technology & Persons with Disabilities Conference which CSUN has hosted for the past three decades.

*Source: “Which Majors Pay Best,” Wall Street Journal, April 17, 2012

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the program, applicants must possess (at the time of enrollment):

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university – i.e., a B.S. in engineering or computer science or a B.S or B.A in a science.
• Cumulative G.P.A.: 3.0 or 2.5 and GRE score, in one section of the test, in the upper 50th percentile. GRE scores are not required if cumulative GPA is 3.0 or higher.
• English Proficiency Requirements for International Applicants: Applicants whose language of instruction was not English, are required to take one of the following placement exams:
  • TOEFL – Minimum scores accepted:
    • Paper-Based test: 550,
    • Computer Based test: 213,
    • Internet-based test: 79
  • IELTS – Minimum score of 6 or higher.
  • PTE Academic – Pearson’s Test of English with a minimum score of 58.
• Successful candidates may be required to complete the following classes (or an equivalent) prior to the start of the cohort:
  ME 286: Mechanical Engineering Design
  ECE 240: Electrical Engineering Fundamentals
• A basic background in JAVA is required

Course List (11 courses, 33 units)

These courses have been carefully crafted and purposefully sequenced to form a uniquely integrated program of study that links the device engineering and development side of assistive technology with the human services aspects of the field. Courses are listed in the order in which they are presented. Later courses build on earlier ones to provide a powerful, cumulative learning experience.

ATE 501 Functional Biology and Design Innovation
ATE 502 Seminar in Human Characteristics in Relation to Usability of Assistive Technologies
ATE 603 Applied Biomechanics and Motor Control
ATE 604 Instrumentation and Measurement
ATE 605 Robotic Applications and Control Interface in Assistive Technology
ATE 606 Assistive Technology Software Development and Applications
ATE 607 Product Design and Development for Assistive Technology
ATE 608 Augmentative and Alternative Communication
ATE 609 Assistive Technology Project Management
ATE 694 Seminar – Current and Emerging Topics in Assistive Technology
ATE 697 Directed Comprehensive Studies

If you would like more information about this program, please contact jesse.knepper.513@csun.edu.