Identified Competency Areas and Core Courses for National Exit

Examination:

(Revised Version – March, 2024)

Programs:

BSc Degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Revised by:
1. Ato Firew Ayele (Arba Minch University)
2. Capt. Kbrom Brhane (Ethiopian Defence University)
3. Ato Abdi Abayneh (Werabe University)
4. Lt. Solomon Semahgn (Ethiopian Defence University)
Contents

1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 1
2. Objective and significance of the document............................................................................ 1
3. Expected Profiles of Graduates ............................................................................................... 2
3.1. Graduate profile based on Focus Area (Stream) .................................................................. 3
3.1.1. Computer Engineering ................................................................................................... 3
3.1.2. Electronic Communication Engineering ....................................................................... 3
3.1.3. Electronics Engineering ................................................................................................. 4
3.1.4. Electronics and Communication Engineering ............................................................... 4
3.1.5. Industrial Control Engineering ...................................................................................... 5
3.1.6 Electrical Power Engineering ......................................................................................... 5
3.1.7 Electrical Power and Control Engineering ....................Error! Bookmark not defined.
4. Learning Outcome and comptency .......................................................................................... 6
4.1 Learning Outcomes ............................................................................................................... 6
4.2 Competencies ........................................................................................................................ 7
5. Courses to be included in the Exit Exam ................................................................................. 8
5.1 Core courses common to all specializations ........................Error! Bookmark not defined.
6. Categorizing Courses in to Theme ........................................................................................ 10
7. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 11
1. INTRODUCTION
The modern world witnessed, and is experiencing a tremendous competition about improving
learning outcomes for development. The competition could be considered as an opportunity and
a threat in maintaining sustained development and producing world class personnel. In fact,
without loss of generality improving learning outcomes to the level required relies on knowledge
and skill. On one hand, knowledge survival is accompanied by the presence of qualified human
forces, whose minds are invested in developing the system of life and competency is the key
player in economic uplifting on the other. The educational system is considered as the main
tributary for both. Particularly the university education plays an important role in safeguarding
the knowledge and producing competent workforce.

To ensure competent human forces there by guaranteeing developed system of life, one of the
most important tools is the Exit Exams, measure of outputs according to the regulating scientific
controls. It provides an honest reading of the level of university outcomes, as it aims to measure
the outcomes of learning the academic programs that the target group has been studying over
years.

The electrical and computer engineering program targets broad – based training to provide
flexibility of career choices and focused training to provide competence in five major area,
namely Computer Engineering, Electronic Communications Engineering, Electronics
Engineering, Industrial Control Engineering and Electrical Power Engineering.

2. OBJECTIVE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE DOCUMENT

The objective and significance of competency in Electrical and Computer Engineering fields are
crucial for professionals in these disciplines to excel in their roles, contribute to technological
advancements, and address the complex challenges of the modern world. Some key objectives
and significance of competency in Electrical and Computer Engineering include:

✓ Achieving Technical Excellence: Competency in Electrical and Computer Engineering

enables professionals to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitude to excel in
their technical roles. This includes understanding fundamental principles, applying
advanced concepts, and staying current with emerging technologies.

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 ✓ Driving Innovation: Competent Electrical and Computer Engineers play a vital role in
driving innovation by designing and developing new technologies, products, and systems
that address societal needs, improve efficiency, and advance scientific knowledge.
✓ Ensuring Quality and Reliability: Competent Engineers are able to design, implement,
and test Electrical and Computer systems to ensure they meet quality standards,
performance requirements, and reliability criteria. This is essential for ensuring the safety
and functionality of technology – driven solutions.
✓ Solving Complex Problems: Competency in Electrical and Computer Engineering
equips professionals with the problem – solving skills needed to tackle complex technical
challenges, analyse issues, identify solutions, and implement effective strategies to
overcome obstacles.
✓ Enhancing Global Competitiveness: Competent Engineers contribute to enhancing the
global competitiveness of organizations, industries, and economies by developing cutting
– edge technologies, fostering innovation, and driving growth in key sectors such as
electronics, telecommunications, automation, and information technology.
✓ Promoting Sustainable Development: Competent Engineers play a critical role in
promoting sustainable development by designing energy – efficient systems,
implementing renewable energy solutions, optimizing resource utilization, and addressing
environmental challenges through technological innovations.
✓ Ensuring Ethical and Professional Conduct: Competency in Electrical and Computer
Engineering includes an understanding of ethical considerations, professional
responsibilities, and legal regulations relevant to the field. This ensures that Engineers
uphold high standards of conduct, integrity, and accountability in their work.

3. EXPECTED PROFILES OF GRADUATES

Electrical and Computer Engineering graduates, in general, are expected to be proficient in
designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and components, computer hardware and
software systems skilled in analyzing and solving complex technical problems related to
electrical systems, knowledgeable in circuit design, power systems, control systems, and
electronics, experienced in using variety software tools for simulation and analysis, systematic
approach in problem – solving abilities, teamwork skills with cooperation and transparency,

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communication skills in written or oral with variety of audience, leadership role in managing
projects, productions, manpower and resources cost effectively and a willingness to adapt to new
technologies. They should also be able to work effectively in a fast – paced environment and stay
up – to – date with the latest advancements in their field.

In order to achieve basic engineering skill mentioned above, an Electrical and Computer
Engineer should acquire fundamental engineering knowledge and skill; such as, engineering
mathematics and its application in signal processing for analogue and digital systems, physics,
EM fields theory and its application in electrical machines and communication system,
semiconducting devices and their operation, measurements of parameters, control systems and its
application in microprocessor, script writing. Based on the fundamental knowledge and skill, and
using scientific techniques and modern tools, he should design solutions for complex engineering
problems considering the benefit of public keeping the environmental safe.

3.1. Graduate Profile Based on Focus Area (Stream/Specialization)

The focus areas of Electrical and Computer Engineering identified as crucial for the country's
development to be selected by students at a later stage of their studies, allowing them to
specialize in one of these streams.

3.1.1. Computer Engineering

• Specializes in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware components such as
processors, memory modules, and input/output devices and software systems.
• Skilled in programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, and Verilog
• Work with a wide range of technologies such as microprocessors, memory devices,
operating systems, and networking protocols.
• Integrating and administering hardware and software systems.
• Knowledge of computer architecture, digital design, and embedded systems and
experience with hardware description languages (HDL).
• Collaborate with software engineers, hardware engineers, and other stakeholders to
integrate components into complete systems
Overall, a computer engineer plays a crucial role in advancing technology by designing and
building innovative computer systems that power various industries and everyday life
3.1.2. Electronic Communication Engineering
• Strong understanding of in designing, developing, and maintaining communication
systems, technologies and networks.

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 • Work with various technologies such as radio frequency, satellite communications, fiber
optics, and digital communication systems.
• Knowledge of signal processing techniques and modulation schemes
• Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues in communication systems
Overall, an electronic communication engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient and
reliable communication systems that are essential for various industries and sectors.

3.1.3. Electronics Engineering

• Specializes in designing, developing, and testing electronic systems and components for
various applications including power supplies, amplifiers, sensors, and control systems.
• Work with a wide range of technologies such as semiconductors, integrated circuits,
sensors, and communication systems.
• Knowledge of analogue and digital electronics, semiconductor devices, and electronic
components
• Familiarity with embedded systems programming and microcontroller applications
• Strong understanding of signal processing techniques and communication protocols
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams including software engineers, mechanical
engineers, and product managers
Overall, electronic engineers play a vital role in designing and innovating electronic systems that
power modern technology across various industries. Their expertise in electronics enables them
to create solutions that drive technological advancements and improve quality of life.

3.1.4. Electronic and Communication engineering competency

• Specializes in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining electronic systems and
communication technologies in industries such as telecommunications, broadcasting,
networking, and electronics manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of electronic circuits, digital signal processing, and communication
systems.
• Proficiency in using software tools for circuit design, simulation, and analysis.
• Able to design and implement hardware components for communication modules.
• Familiarity with RF design principles, antenna theory, and wireless communication
technologies.

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Overall, an electronic and communication engineer plays a crucial role in advancing technology
and innovation in various industries by designing and implementing cutting-edge electronic
systems and communication systems.

3.1.5. Industrial Control Engineering

• Specializes in designing, developing, and implementing control systems for industrial
processes and machinery.
• Understand fundamentals in the field of modern systems
• Demonstrate concepts to utilize feedback when designing control systems
• Analyze dynamic systems and design of controllers that will cause the systems to behave
in the desired manner.
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug complex control systems
Overall, an industrial control engineer plays a critical role in improving the efficiency,
productivity, and safety of industrial processes through the design and implementation of
advanced control systems.
3.1.6 Electrical Power Engineering
• Strong understanding in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical power systems
and equipment.
• Work with various technologies such as generators, transformers, switchgear, and
distribution systems.
• Knowledge of power generation, transmission, and distribution
• Conducting power system studies such as load flow analysis, short circuit analysis, and
protection coordination
• Participate in the assessment and development of renewable energy technologies for the
national grid expansion as well as rural electrification efforts.
Overall, an electrical power engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliable and efficient
supply of electricity to meet the needs of various industries and sectors.

3.1.7 Electrical Power and Control Engineering

• Possesses a unique skill set that combines expertise in control systems with a deep
understanding to design, analyze, and optimize complex systems that involve the
generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power.
• Proficiency in designing and implementing control systems for power generation plants,
electrical grids, and industrial automation processes.
• Knowledge of power electronics, renewable energy systems, and energy storage
technologies.
• Ability to analyse and optimize power systems for efficiency, reliability, and stability.
• Skills in programming and simulation tools for modeling and analyzing power systems.

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 • Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues in power systems and implement
effective solutions.

Overall, a graduate in Control and Power Engineering is well – equipped to contribute to the
development of advanced power systems, renewable energy technologies, smart grids, and other
innovative solutions in the field of control and power engineering.

3.1.8 Instrumentation Engineering

• Equipped with a strong foundation in the principles of electrical, electronic, and control
engineering.
• They possess technical skills in designing, developing, and maintaining instrumentation
systems used in various industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals,
biomedical instruments, power generation and avionics systems.
• Proficiency in using advanced software tools for simulation, modeling, and analysis of
instrumentation systems.
• Strong problem – solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve issues with instrumentation
systems.

Overall, a graduate in Instrumentation Engineering is well-prepared to contribute to the

development and implementation of innovative solutions in the field of instrumentation and
control engineering.

4. LEARNING OUTCOME AND COMPTENCY

4.1 Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes of Electrical and Computer Engineering programs typically include:
1. Proficiency in using software tools for modelling, simulation, and analysis of
electrical and computer systems.
2. Knowledge of fundamental principles in areas such as circuit theory, electronics,
signals processing, field theory, and analogue and digital systems.
3. Ability to apply mathematical techniques and principles to solve engineering
problems.
4. Understanding of ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering practice.
5. Effective communication skills for presenting technical information to a variety of
audiences.

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 6. Develop a strong foundation in the core principles and fundamental concepts of
electrical and computer engineering.
7. Gain proficiency in designing and analysing electrical and computer systems.
8. Develop the ability to analyse engineering problems, identify relevant
information, and apply appropriate problem – solving techniques.
9. Understand various process scheduling algorithms, including pre – emptive and
non – pre – emptive algorithms, and their impact on system performance.
10. Understand the internal architecture and operation of microcontrollers or
microprocessors commonly used in embedded systems.
11. Understanding the fundamental concepts and principles of computer networks.
12. Know how to understand and apply the representation, classification,
characterization and analysis of signals and systems in time and frequency
domains.
13. Know how to analyse and evaluate the property and realization of various logic
gates.
14. Understand basic concepts and techniques of biomedical instruments.

4.2 Competencies
The followings are competencies required in the field of Electrical and Computer engineering.
S. No. Areas of
Expected Competencies to be achieved
Competency

1. Knowledge ➢ Deep understanding to analyse and evaluate the property

and realization of various logic gates that will be applied in
different hardware company.
➢ Develop and design complex electrical and computer
systems.
➢ Advice principles in related areas like circuit theory,
electronics, signals processing, field theory, digital systems,
communication systems.
➢ Having deep understanding in industrial control and electric
power system to solve the real world factor related to
Control and power theory, System Modelling and Analysis,
Programming and Software, Data Analysis and
Optimization, and Human – Machine Interaction.
2. Skill ➢ Having proficiency in developing hardware products and
software applications for the societies.

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 ➢ Proficiency in programming languages related to their
areas.

➢ Ability to select an appropriate control algorithm, designing

feedback controllers, and considering system performance
requirements.

➢ Grasp basic skills on power generation, transmission, and

distribution systems as well as electrical equipment that will
be used for the society, such as transformers, generators,
motors, and switchgear.

➢ Having an incorporated skill in related to Signal Processing,

Digital Communication and Wireless Communication,
Telecommunication Systems, instrumentation and control
and Network Protocols & Security.

3. Attitude ➢ Effective communication that is crucial for collaborating

with team members, presenting ideas to stakeholders, and
writing technical reports.
➢ Feeling to create awareness of contemporary issues in
electrical and computer engineering, including
sustainability, globalization, and societal impacts related to
the real world exposure.
➢ Engineers must adhere to ethical standards and consider the
social and environmental impact of their work.
➢ Develop effective teamwork and collaboration skills by
working on group projects and engineering challenges.

5. COURSES TO BE INCLUDED IN THE EXIT EXAM

Electrical and Computer Engineering students take 60 – 65 courses and it is unrealistic to try and
evaluate the student their competency of all these courses by just one university exit
examination. Therefore, only 12 courses are selected that can evaluate the competency of the
student in key knowledge, skill and attitude that are identified in the competency and learning
outcome section. It should also be noted that the questions from the selected courses should
focus on long term knowledge and transferrable skills by taking into account the open book
theme of professional practice.

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In the Ethiopian context, various types of universities, including Public Universities, Science and
Technology Universities, and Defense Universities, offer programs in Electrical and Computer
Engineering across different disciplines such as Computer Engineering, Electronic
Communication Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Electronic and Communication
Engineering, Industrial Control Engineering, Power Engineering, Control and Power
Engineering, and Instrumentation Engineering. Despite the range of specializations within the
Electrical and Computer Engineering program, the Ministry of Education (MoE) advocates for
treating it as a unified program and developing a single set of competencies and blueprint for
creating exit exam questions, limited to no more than 100 questions for all specializations. This
approach involves selecting 12 courses from the core curriculum of Electrical and Computer
Engineering, covering 4 to 6 thematic areas. These selected courses are drawn from common
core subjects that are shared across all specializations. The aim is to assess competencies based
on these core courses that are fundamental to all specializations. As a result, all students within
the target group will be required to take examinations on the twelve identified common core
courses in Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Courses to evaluate the core Electrical and Computer Engineering competencies are:

No Course Title Cr. Hr.

1 Computer programming 3
2 Fundamentals of Circuits 3
3 Object Oriented Programming 3
4 Applied Electronics I 3
5 Signals and System Analysis 3
6 Network Analysis and Synthesis 3
7 Digital Logic Design 3
8 Introduction to Electrical Machines 3
9 Computer architecture and Organization 3
10 Introduction to Communication Systems 3
11 Introduction to Control Engineering 3
12 Introduction to Power Systems 3

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6. CATEGORIZING COURSES IN TO THEME
The courses are categorized according to the expected competencies of a prospective graduate of
Electrical and Computer Engineering on the core or Fundamental courses.

Theme Course Title Cr. Hr.

Fundamentals of Circuits 3

Applied Electronics I 3
Electrical Engineering
Signals and Systems Analysis 3
Fundamentals
Network Analysis and Synthesis 3

Introduction to Electrical Machines 3

Computer programming 3

Computer Object Oriented Programming 3

Engineering/Programming Digital Logic Design 3

Computer architecture and Organization 3

Electronics and
Introduction to Communication Systems 3
Communication

Control Systems and Introduction to Control Engineering 3

Power Systems Introduction to Power Systems 3
Total Cr. Hr. 36

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7. CONCLUSION
The exit examination plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of academic
programs. Assessing graduates based on the core competencies outlined in the curriculum and
aligned with industry requirements is essential for building employers' confidence in their skills.
To achieve this, it is necessary to establish a guideline that serves as a reference for developing a
comprehensive exit exam focusing on key areas of the program. Drawing from identified
graduate profiles, competencies, and learning outcomes, 12 core courses shared across all
Electrical and Computer Engineering streams have been selected for the exit exams. The exam
questions derived from these courses aim to evaluate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes
fundamental to Electrical and Computer Engineering, ensuring the attainment of competencies
and learning outcomes.
Even though there are a minimum of eight streams or specializations of Electrical and Computer
Engineering in the Ethiopian context, such as Computer Engineering, Electronic Communication
Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Industrial
Control Engineering, Power Engineering, Control and Power Engineering, and Instrumentation
Engineering, courses from specializations are not selected for competencies. Instead, all 12
courses are selected from common Electrical and Computer Engineering courses, which are
delivered when the graduate joined the program. This is due to the direction given by the
Ministry of Education since it is difficult to handle or manage the exit exam task for the eight
specific specializations. We hope that in the near future such a gap is solved, and graduates of
Electrical and Computer Engineering are examined for their competency based on specialization
courses taken recently within the last two years, in addition to the common and fundamental
Electrical Engineering courses taken at the beginning of the program.

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