The engineering survey course — mechanics, circuits, robotics, and the working habits of real engineers.
Honors Principles of Engineering (PLTW-POE) is an advanced high school survey course that introduces students to foundational engineering principles while preparing them for postsecondary engineering study. Through rigorous activity-, project-, and problem-based (APPB) learning, students apply engineering and scientific concepts to complex, real-world challenges, developing advanced problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. Students are expected to document their work thoroughly, analyze results, and communicate solutions effectively to both peers and professional audiences.
As the second of three foundation courses in the PLTW high school Engineering Program, this honors-level course builds on Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW-IED) while extending knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. Honors students are expected to engage in higher-level analysis, independent research, and creative design work. A grade of 80 or higher in IED and enrollment in Algebra I are recommended.
MTHS '27
“Principles of Engineering gives a comprehensive overview of all the different fields of engineering. Specifically, the activity on traffic engineering caught my interest, it was a field that I wasn't aware existed. However, I learned all the logistics behind traffic engineering. Additionally, the use of engineering notebooks was a good experience on how it is to be an actual engineer and document everything that we did.”
MTHS '26
“From my time taking Principles of Engineering, my knowledge of engineering and its different fields grew exponentially. Although the course covered multiple engineering disciplines, such as civil, electrical, and mechanical, the most impactful activity was the Ohm's law lab. The lab covered the basics of circuits, as the main objective was to power different LEDs. Learning about circuits and electricity through Principles of Engineering has ultimately influenced my decision to major in electrical engineering.”
MTHS '26 · Purdue '30
“Taking Principles of Engineering was a proper exploration of the vast disciplines of engineering. From coding robots, building machines, creating circuits, and calculating bridge loads, POE really taught me the basics of engineering as a whole that I believe will help any student who plans to study engineering beyond high school.”
MTHS '26 · Rutgers '30
“Principles of Engineering is the class where my passion for engineering truly took shape.”
Design, build, and program working mechanisms with the department's VEX robotics platform.
Hands-OnBreadboards, multimeters, and the famous Ohm's-law LED lab — learn electricity by wiring it.
FacilityDocument every project the way working engineers do — a habit colleges and employers notice.
Professional SkillHonors GPA credit and PLTW's industry-recognized credential, in the same course.
Academic