Program faculty are committed to prepare engineering graduates who can work cooperatively with other engineers, scientists, and business professionals to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. A master's degree in electrical and computer engineering is also available to those seeking advanced degree in engineering.

High school graduates planning to study Engineering should complete three years of high school mathematics, including geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. In addition, courses in biology, English, computers, physics, chemistry, and mechanical or computer aided drawing should be taken to assist the student in transitioning into an Engineering program. If these high school courses are not completed, additional time may be required to complete the requirements for an Engineering degree.

Several engineering professional societies have student chapters on campus. Student organizations sponsor guest speakers, social events, field trips, community service events, and organize teams to compete at regional and national engineering student competitions. Student organizations also offer peer advising and tutoring. The American Society of Civil Engineers, the Structural Engineers Association of California, the Institute of Transportation Engineers, Engineers Without Borders, the Society of Plastics Engineers, the Association for Computing Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers, and the Society of Women Engineers all have active chapters. The national honor societies Tau Beta Pi and Eta Kappa Nu are also available to qualified students. As no national society exists for mechatronic engineers, Chico has formed a local club, the American Institute of Mechatronic Engineers.