Graduate Handbook

All international students are required to report to International Programs and Services, Administration Building, Room 200 if you haven’t checked in already.

• Bring your I-20 or DS-2019
• Passport
• Visa

• On-Campus
• Off-Campus

All students are required to have a HuskyCard for identification and swipe access to buildings, parking lots, and residence halls, if applicable.

• HuskyCards are issued at the HuskyCard Service Center in the IT Service Center, 1st floor of the Van
  Pelt and Opie Library.
• A valid government-issued photo ID is required, such as a driver's license, a state ID or a passport.

Your first semester schedule should be determined in consultation with your advisor.

• If you do not have an advisor, you may choose courses by consulting the graduate course catalog in your area of interest.
• You should choose courses that will apply to the degree you are seeking by consulting the Graduate Student Orientation page for details of degree course requirements.
  • For example, if you are planning on the MS Plan D Coursework Option, then taking an EE
    course at the 3000-level would not count toward your degree.
  • A typical schedule has one or more graduate or senior-level courses in the interest area of the
    student.
  • Utilize the Graduate School’s Forms and Deadlines webpage.
  • Use the ECE graduate student self audit (Excel spreadsheet), found on the /ece/graduate/advising/ to plan and record your progress. Start now and keep a copy on your computer.
    Read the directions carefully.
  • Note: ECE graduate students must maintain a university cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.

     

• After scheduling courses, go to MyMichiganTech to receive a copy of your schedule and tuition bill.
  For supported students only (GTA/GA/GRA): After scheduling courses, go to Banweb to view a copy of your
  schedule and tuition bill. Computer fees and tuition for up to 9 credits will be paid by the ECE department.

  • • You are responsible for the student-voted fees such as the Student Activity Fee, and Experience Tech
      Fee, etc.
    • GTA/GRA's – if you exceed 9 credits, you will pay the extra tuition.
• You may register online using the Banweb system or register in person at the Registrar’s Office, 130 Administration Building

Students must be enrolled every academic year (fall and spring) until they complete their degree.

• Completing a degree means successfully completing all required courses, turning in all paperwork,
  and, if required by the degree program, defending and turning in a final version of a report, thesis or
  dissertation.
• Graduate students are not required to register for the summer session in order to fulfill the continuous
  enrollment policy.

Michigan Tech Career Services provides information that may assist students in locating employment.

 

Please see the Graduate Program Coordinator in 611 EERC to be set up on hourly payroll immediately upon hire in order to avoid a delay in pay.

• Pay disbursements are issued every two weeks. Direct deposit can be set up online in Banweb under Employees, Pay Information, Direct Deposit allocation.
• Fellowship recipients are paid monthly as a non-payroll disbursement. Direct Deposit can be set up for non-payroll payments online in Banweb under Employees, Non-Payroll Direct Deposit Destination.

International Student Notes

• International students must limit on-campus employment to 20 hours per week while school is in
  session.
• Students on J-1 visas must report on-campus employment to IPS.
• You cannot work off-campus without prior approval from IPS.
• You will need to apply for a Social Security Number if you have an on-campus job offer. Bring your job
  offer letter to IPS for further instructions.

• IPS has all the details on employment options.

  • Before accepting any kind of job, contact IPS to find out if your visa allows you to work, and about other forms and requirements that may be required, including applying for a Social Security Number (SSN).
  • If you need an SSN, please send an email to ece@mtu.edu or visit the main office (EERC 121) for employment verification.
  • Please request a receipt confirming the SSN application, and return the receipt to the Graduate Program Coordinator, 611 EERC, if you have been hired by the ECE department.

Office assignments are made by Professor Cischke on a priority basis.

• Pay disbursements are issued every two weeks. Direct deposit can be set up online in Banweb under Employees, Pay Information, Direct Deposit allocation.
• Fellowship recipients are paid monthly as a non-payroll disbursement. Direct Deposit can be set up for non-payroll payments online in Banweb under Employees, Non-Payroll Direct Deposit Destination.

Swipe card after-hours access to the EERC building and computer labs will automatically be provided to all enrolled students.

• A key or card access that opens graduate student offices and/or labs will be issued to each graduate student who will require access to those rooms.
• During the first week of the semester, Chuck Sannes will order office/lab keys and grant card access as needed.
• You will be notified by email when your key is ready to be picked up at Public Safety and Police Services, 206 MacInnes Drive (building 16 on campus map).
  • You will need your MTU ID card (HuskyCard) to pick up your key.
  • If lost, you will be charged $100 for a replacement key.

See the Transportation Services for detailed information regarding the vehicle registration process, parking fees, and rules/regulations regarding parking.

• Vehicle registration/parking permit purchase can be done online.
  • Bring your vehicle registration and your picture ID to Transportation Services,
    100 Administration Building, to pick up your parking permit.
• During off-hours (4 p.m. -7 a.m. weekdays) and all weekend, core campus parking lots and parking meters are open for parking (exception is handicap and designated parking spaces).

To allow for snow removal, parking is prohibited on campus between 2:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., from November 1 through April 30 (regardless of if there is/isn’t snow on the ground).

• Exceptions: Campus housing residents may park in their designated lots.
• Those needing to park on campus overnight can ask for and receive a special overnight parking permit from transportation services. If it is after 5 p.m. on weekdays, on a holiday, or on weekends, contact Public Safety and Public Servicesfor parking permission. 
• If you have car problems and are unable to move your vehicle, contact the following groups:
  • Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., contact Transportation Services at 487-1441
  • After hours, holidays, and weekends, call Public Safety before the 2:00 a.m. deadline at
    487-2216.

See Student in 121 EERC for direction/instructions.

The ECE department will allow you to send and receive faxes.

• Our fax number is (906) 487-2949 and the fax machine is located in the ECE main office, 121 EERC.

Chuck Sannes is responsible for equipment use and laboratory procedures.

• Please refer to his memo concerning laboratory policies on page 15 of this handbook or contact him in 727 EERC if you have any questions.

There is a “No Open Window” policy in the ECE Department.

You may complement the MTU furniture in your office with your own, but do not move furniture from office to office without permission from Prof. Cischke.

• You may not live in your office.
• Do not prepare or store food in your office.
• If you are not on campus for a semester, inform Prof. Cischke that you will not be here and leave your office in a neat condition.
• Upon leaving MTU for other than a summer semester, you must completely clean out your office.
• Keep your office neat at all times.
• If you will not be enrolled for a summer semester, you must inform Prof. Cischke or you will lose your office.

There are a limited number of lockers in the sub-basement that are available, for the academic year, to graduate students who do not have an office.

• See the lab support staff (727 EERC) to sign up for a locker. Locks are not supplied, so it is recommended that the students supply their own lock.
• Unless prior arrangements are made, the lockers are to be vacated when you leave the department or by the end of the spring semester.

The fifth floor open social area (space 515 EERC) is available for students to meet and study.

• Please respect this area by cleaning up after yourself - there is no maid service.
• Please dispose of your leftovers/garbage, clean up any spills and/or crumbs after eating, and thoroughly wash and put away any dishes/utensils used.
• Do NOT leave dirty dishes in the sink or put any food down the sink drain.

• 3000-level courses are not counted towards coursework requirements.
• A minimum of one-half of the coursework credits required for the degree must be taken among EE 4000-, 5000-, and 6000-level courses excluding transferred courses and research/project courses (e.g., EE 599X and EE 699X).
• A maximum of 3 credits of EE 5805 can be included in the coursework requirements.
• Other directed study courses, project courses (other than EE 5991 for the MS project opOon), and ENT courses are not counted towards required coursework credits.

Coursework Requirements for MS Programs

Delivery Options	Total required credits	Total course credits	EE 4000-, 5000-, and 6000-level credits	Other approved course credit	Allowed 4000-level course credits	Co-op credits at 5000-level	Project/research credits
Course work only	30	30	15	12 max	12 max	3 max	0
Report	30	24 min	12 min	12 max	12 max	3 max	2-6
Thesis	30	18 min	9 min	9 max	9 max	3 max	12 min

Coursework Requirements for PhD Programs

Delivery Options	Total required credits	Total course credits	EE 4000-, 5000-, and 6000-level credits	Other approved course credit	Allowed 4000-level course credits	Co-op credits at 5000-level	Project/research credits
A<er MS	30	18 min	9	6 max	6 max	3 max	12 min
A<er BS	60	30 min	15 min	9 max	9 max	3 max	12 min

Important Notes

• Course credits exclude research/project courses (e.g., EE 599X and EE 699X), other directed study or project courses, and ENT courses. A maximum of 3 credits of EE 5805 can be included in the coursework requirements.
• If there are transferred courses, a minimum of one-half of the coursework credits required for the degree must be taken among EE 4000-, 5000-, and 6000-level courses other than transferred courses, EE 599X, and EE 699X.
• Other courses must be at 4000-level or above. 3000-level courses are not counted towards degree requirements. Courses outside of the Department should be approved by the advisor. Usually, courses offered by Physics, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Computer Science, and Applied Computing will be approved. Students must seek approval from the Graduate Program Director before registering courses from other disciplines.
• EE 5990 for students in the thesis option and EE 5991 for students in the report option. EE 5990/5991 cannot be taken before completing a minimum of one semester in the program.

The purpose of the PhD qualifying process is to make a reasonable determination that a PhD student has attained the level of formal coursework education and developed the ability to
conduct independent research consistent with attaining the PhD. Research ability for successful
PhD students must be consistent with eventually publishing an original, significant dissertation and discipline-specific refereed, archival journal papers.

The PhD qualifying process has two parts:

1. Coursework requirement: This assessment is based on performance in three graduate courses determined by the research advisor as appropriate for the area of specialization. Making this assessment is a shared responsibility of the Department faculty. Details are provided below.
2. Research requirement: This assessment is based on the performance on a written examination designed to demonstrate the student’s ability to conduct independent research. Making this assessment is the responsibility of the student’s research advisor and research committee members. Details are provided below.

All existing University and Department coursework requirements remain in place. In addition:

• The advisor will pick a set of three classes which are required to conduct research in the
  area of specialization. These classes must be at the 5000 level or higher, and at least two
  of these courses must be EE classes. No directed study or special study courses will be
  allowed for completion of the coursework requirement. Courses specifically disallowed
  from being used to satisfy the coursework requirement are: EE 5805, EE 5900*, EE 5990,
  EE 5991, EE 5992, EE 5994, and EE 6990.
  • Note: EE 5900 may be permitted upon approval of a petition submitted by the student’s advisor to the Graduate Program Committee.
• To pass the coursework requirement a grade of AB or better must be achieved in each of the three classes used to satisfy the coursework requirement.
• There is no requirement to pick these courses at the start of the program. However, they must form a sensible major area of study that is supported by the research advisor.
• When this milestone is satisfied, the advisor will complete the “PhD Qualifying Exam Request for Written and Oral Presentation” form which includes a list of the courses taken, and the grades obtained. This form will indicate the research advisor and the research committee members. The form will require the signatures of the committee to indicate their concurrence that this requirement has been completed.
• The form should be submitted to the ECE Graduate Program Committee for review and approval.
• Failure to complete this requirement within two semesters may result in dismissal from the PhD program. Students may petition the Graduate Program Committee to handle exceptions to this policy based on extraordinary circumstances.

The research requirement of the PhD qualifying process is conducted by the student’s research
advisor and at least two additional members of the research committee, henceforth referred to
as the examining committee. The first attempt at satisfying the research requirement will be
taken no later than the 3rd semester. The process by which the research requirement will be
completed is as follows:

• It is necessary for a research committee to be formed before the research requirement can be completed. There is no proposed change to the rules governing PhD research committees.
• The examining committee will assign one or more papers to define a topic for a written independent research report and oral presentation by the student.
• The student will independently conduct a thorough review of the assigned topic and prepare both a written report and an oral presentation summarizing the information in the paper(s) and the relevant references. The examining committee is expected to make discipline-specific and student-specific requirements for the written and oral presentations.
• Both the report and the presentation should contain:
  • A succinct statement of the problem and why it is relevant to the field.
  • A review of the background literature.
  • A summary of the approach and key results.
  • Discussion of technical accomplishments by the student in the course of preparing. This will be highly discipline-dependent, but may consist of replicating calculations, extending results to a new case, etc.
  • Conclusions, which should contain a discussion of possible future work.
• Students are expected to become thoroughly familiar with the topic and be able to handle questions from the research committee as part of the assessment process.
• The examining committee will assess the student's capabilities including conceptual understanding, applied math, key applications of concepts in given area, creativity, and general research capabilities.
• The report, which represents fulfillment of the university requirement for a written exam, will be presented to the examining committee two weeks before an oral presentation of the results.
• After assessing the student’s performance, the examining committee will complete the graduate school “Report on Qualifying Exam” form and submit it to the Graduate Program Coordinator for entry into Banner.
• If the student’s performance is judged inadequate on the first try, the examining committee will provide feedback to the student.
• A maximum of two attempts may be made by the student to pass the research component of the qualifying process. If a second attempt is required, it must be completed in the semester immediately following the first try. Failure on the second attempt will result in dismissal from the PhD program.

This is an oral presentation of the dissertation proposal and an oral examination on the proposed research by the advisory committee. It is expected that this presentation will cover a sufficient body of original, significant research that a credible plan can be presented for completing the dissertation at this milestone. The form of this presentation will be similar to presenting original work at a technical conference:

• Sufficient mastery of the relevant background literature must be demonstrated.
• The problem must be stated and justified succinctly.
• The approach must be presented.
• Original significant results must be presented, and how they fit into the existing body of knowledge in the field must be discussed.
• Conclusions, and a definitive plan for completing the dissertation must be presented.
• The PhD student must field questions from the committee.

The PhD research advisory committee will make an assessment of the presentation and determine whether or not the student has passed. Regardless of the outcome, the “Report on Research Proposal Exam” form must be completed and submitted to the ECE graduate program office after the completion of the presentation. Two attempts are allowed, subject to the approval of both the research advisory committee and the Graduate Program Committee. If the second try is required, it must be completed in the semester following the first attempt. The proposal defense must also be passed within one year of passing the PhD coursework and research requirements, but not in the same semester.

International students must take the Language Assessment administered by the Center for Teaching and Learning to be eligible for a GTA position.

• Please contact the Center for Teaching and Learning at 487-1001 or stop by their office, 226 J. R. Van Pelt and Opie Library.

Language Assessment

All students with current GTA assignments for the Fall24/Spring25/Summer25 semesters must attend both of the following:

• the GTA training program offered by the Center for Teaching and Learning
• the ECE Department’s GTA Workshop to be eligible for a GTA position.

All new GTA's are required to complete GTA training through the Center for Teaching and Learning during their first semester as a GTA.

• The most common way to complete this training is to enroll in a 1 credit, non-billable course (ED0510 - GTA Training) that will meet on either Monday or Wednesdays from 3-5 PM in MEEM, Room 405 during THE FIRST 7 WEEKS of each semester (09/03-10/18 this fall).
  • Failure to complete ED0510 in the first semester will jeopardize your reappointment as a GTA. Enrollment in ED0510 course is by permission only.
  • Contact Mike Meyer(with your M-number) to register or with questions.
  • If your schedule absolutely will not allow you to take ED0510, you should contact Mike Meyer to explore other ways to complete this training. Information about the curriculum is available.

A GTA must be enrolled for a minimum of 9 credits, except in summer when the minimum is 1 research credit or 1 course.

• All summer GTAs must be enrolled for at least 1 credit.
• Do not plan travel dates for semester breaks that will require you to leave before the semester concludes or return after the next semester begins.
• You are expected to be available and prepared for labs on the first day of the first week of the semester.

You will receive occasional emails from our administrative staff. The Graduate Program Coordinator and the Office Administrative staff will not trouble you with inconsequential requests. If they send you a request by email, you are expected to respond promptly and courteously.

• See the Graduate Program Coordinator, 611 EERC, for payroll inquiries.
• See the Administrative Assistant in the ECE office, 121 EERC, for supplies.

Candidacy allows you to register for nine credits (full-time) at a reduced tuition rate.

• Students are eligible for full-time candidacy at the start of the first semester following completion of the following required milestones.

Must complete all required courses as well as the required number of credits for their degree (30 minimum). Final Degree Schedule (M4) must be received by the Graduate School

Must satisfactorily complete both their qualifying and dissertation proposal exams, as well as all courses required for their degree (as applicable).

• Final Degree Schedule (D5) and Report on Research Proposal Exam (D6) must be received by the Graduate School. Note: The doctoral candidate's home department must post all comprehensive/qualifying exam results into the candidate's Banner record.

You must complete the Petition to Enter Candidacy and submit the form to the Graduate School at least one week prior to the first day of classes in the semester you plan to enter candidacy to enter full-time candidacy.

• Permission to enroll in a candidacy course is granted by the Graduate School after the petition is approved.
• This policy helps faculty who are supporting graduate researchers on external funding and will help self-supported students remain full-time and international students who must remain full-time for immigration purposes.

Minimum stipend amounts effective Fall 2025:

• Minimum stipend rate for MS students is $8606.
• Minimum stipend rate for PhD students without an MS degree is $8606.
• Stipends will increase to $9993 for PhD students with an MS degree
• $10432 for those who have passed their qualifying exams with or without an MS degree.
• $10876 for those who have passed their proposal defense exams (with or without an MS degree).
  • To be considered a PhD candidate, a student must be enrolled in the PhD program and have either earned a MS degree or have passed the PhD qualifying exams (written and oral).
  • Summer semester compensation is controlled by the Graduate School.

The standard GTA teaching assignment is four two-hour laboratory sections or equivalent.

• Grading for labs, homework and reports is part of the work for each lab.
• A GTA is expected to work an average of 20 hours per week. There will be times when the operational requirements of the department, the skill requirements of the labs, and the individual schedules of all the GTAs will force an assignment to labs in more than one course. This is undesirable for everyone and every effort will be made to avoid it.

Support for MS candidates will be limited to four semesters, excluding summers.

• GTA support will only be available to MS candidates for their first two calendar years in the program, independent of the number of semesters they have been supported.

At the beginning of each semester, you will receive an initial feedback interview with Prof. Cischke and/or the faculty member who will be responsible for the lab you are assigned.

• This feedback session will be documented on the Performance Feedback Worksheet (sample included in orientation folder).
  • You will be informed of your specific responsibilities and the instructor’s expectations at this time. This feedback process will be repeated at mid-semester in order to highlight successes in your performance.
  • The midterm feedback will provide you with an opportunity to make corrections prior to the end-of-semester evaluation.
  • A final feedback session to recap and reflect on the semester will occur after the end-of-semester survey results are available. You will be asked to schedule an appointment with Prof. Cischke to assess your performance and set the stage for the future.
  • Successful performance in the lab is essential for your continued support as a graduate teaching assistant.

Meet periodically as specified by the professor(s) in charge to discuss:

• Course Outline
• Lab Experiments
• Homework Assignments
• Examinations
• Make-Up Procedures Grading
• Pre-Lab Procedures
  • Perform each assigned laboratory experiment yourself before the class meets. This will ensure your ability to answer any questions students may have concerning the lab and that the needed equipment is present and working.
  • This step is critical to your success as GTA. Failure to perform this step will inevitably be detected by the students. They have an uncanny ability to detect when you are trying to bluff your way through the lab and it will reflect poorly on the student surveys at the end of the semester, and the quality of education you provide.
• You must follow, as closely as possible, the prescribed program in each course.
  • Discuss any deviations with faculty and other teaching assistants in the lab before you go ahead.
  • GTA’s in multi-section labs need to coordinate grading to have uniform grading practices.
• Check all the lab equipment before the lab begins.
  • After the lab is over, make sure all the equipment is accounted for and turned off.
  • Either put each equipment item away neatly or restore it to its original position in the laboratory.
  • The laboratory doors, cabinets, etc., should be locked at all times when the laboratory is not in use unless otherwise specified.
  • Turn off all equipment at the end of each class period, including the computers.
  • Shutting down the computers will refresh the configuration control software and get rid of any unauthorized student files before the next class period. This discourages cross-talk between students that might be misunderstood as academic dishonesty.
• Do not allow students to browse in the supply cabinets for components.
• Part of your preparation for the lab should be to locate the required components and make them available to the students.
• NEVER allow students to return components to the supply cabinet.
  • If stock is low, notify Chuck Sannes, 727 EERC, x72134. Do not leave it for another GTA to do.
  • There are used component bins on the counter in the labs. Students should place all used components in the bins for reuse or disposal.
  • Do not allow students to remove components from the lab.

For most lab courses, refer to the Canvas course for policy and curriculum information. Safety and good lab practices should be constantly emphasized.

• Your course instructor will provide you with suggestions, which may include handing out “Safety Practices to be Observed in the Laboratories of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.”
• During the first lab meeting, the students should be informed of the grading and attendance policy.
  • This is your first and best opportunity to set expectations.
  • The professor in charge of the course will provide you with this policy.
  • This must include a definition of and the penalty for cheating, late work, and unsafe behavior.
  • Refer students to the Academic Honesty Link on the lab website – show the video on the first day of class.
• Any student repeating a course with a laboratory must repeat the laboratory as well as the recitation to pass the course.
• Work cannot be resubmitted from previous attempts.
• No lab instructor should leave the lab unattended for long periods of time while experiments are being performed.
• If it is necessary to leave for more than five minutes, a qualified stand-in should be found.
• You must maintain a current and accurate record of student attendance and grades.
• The specified experiments for course are not to be changed, nor should any parts be omitted without the consent of the professor in charge.
  • Of course, suggestions for improvements are always welcome.
• Inform your students that eating and/or drinking is prohibited in all laboratories and computer areas.
• At the discretion of the faculty in charge, short weekly quizzes (perhaps 10 minutes long) may be given on the previous week's experiments.
  • These quizzes, along with a lab final (if given), should be used to establish the final lab grade. Check with the professor in charge of the course for more information.
• It is quite important to inform students the following week if their lab report was not turned in or if they are delinquent in any other way.
  • Provide timely feedback on student progress.
• Do not sign any cards to add, change sections, etc., for any student.
  • Instruct them to make an appointment with undergraduate advising by contacting the ECE office at 487-2232, 131 EERC, or emailing the advising office
  • Announce that any student enrolled in the lab, who is still enrolled in the course after the last day to drop without charge, will be billed for the lab even if they drop the course.
  • Students should refer to the Registrar’s Office Academic Calendar for Drop/Add Dates.

The grading procedure for each laboratory is determined by the faculty instructor for the course.

• Grades, in general, should include performance in the lab, hand-in material from work done at home, attendance, short tests, and possibly a lab final examination.
• The faculty coordinator will provide you with additional guidance.
• The final lab grades are due on or before the time the final course exam is given.
  • Always be prepared to justify the grades you give.
  • The professor in charge of the course will enable you to access the course's grade book.
  • You will assign grades in consultation with the faculty instructor.
  • Do not depart the local area until all of your grades are properly recorded in the course grade book and all final grades are submitted electronically.

Students should turn in their work in the laboratory or Canvas as specified, and all graded reports and other materials should be returned to the student in the same way.

• Laboratory reports are to be returned to the students the following week.
• It is your responsibility to grade reports promptly.
  • Do NOT ask the Office Assistants to hand materials out to the students, and do not pile things in the halls.

Laboratory grades may NOT be posted outside your door.

• Do not post grades or leave piles of graded work for students to browse through.
• Do not discuss the grades of one student with another.
• Refer to FERPA

Keep a record of student attendance.

• You must verify that students attending your lab are enrolled in your section.
• Occasionally, students may request to work in your section to make up work from other sections; you may allow this if there is room available.

• Treat the students with respect. Be polite to them. Avoid sarcasm. Don’t lapse into crude or obscene language or profanity. You have an obligation to teach the students the proper mode of expression. Be precise, concise, and technically correct in your speech and demand the same of the students.
• You are in a position of power, so avoid any appearance of abusing that power. Do not ask any of your students for a date. Do not accept offers for dates from your students. Avoid even the perception of unfair treatment in the classroom.
• Respect the lab equipment and lab space you use and make sure the student treats the equipment and space with respect.
• If you do not understand the theory of what you are teaching, you should seek faculty guidance. You should never go to class unprepared and uncertain of the theory upon which that class is based. You should strive to keep well ahead of the class.
• Never try to bluff the students. If you don’t know the answer, say so, but get the answer before you see the students again and make it a point to bring up the subject.
• If a lab experiment that students are doing does not work properly, do not imply that it doesn’t matter. Impress upon the students the need for careful analysis, laboratory skill and troubleshooting technique. Help them connect their lab experience with classroom theory and what they can expect in industry. Paint a picture of the future that includes them as a part of our industry.
• Continuously practice and preach safety. Do not tolerate unsafe practice.

• GTAs MUST be on campus beginning with the first week of the semester except for the fall, when they need to be here for the week prior to the start of the semester.
  • You are expected to remain on campus until your last lab section meets and all of your grades are turned in.
  • Do not submit your final grades electronically without consulting the lab coordinator.
• Expect to teach your lab the first week of classes unless instructed otherwise.
• All GTAs are expected to meet their classes suitably dressed, well-groomed, and on time. (And stay until the lab session is over and/or all students are gone.)
• No laboratories are to be canceled, except by the professor in charge of the course.
  • If you know in advance that you are unable to attend your laboratory, you must find a substitute and inform the professor in charge of the course.
  • In an emergency, notify the ECE office that you are unable to meet your laboratory.
• All GTAs are expected to check their mailbox, MTU email, and Canvas messages at least once a day.
• You are requested to reserve at least four hours a week for consultation with students having difficulties.
  • The times selected for consultation should be announced to each section at the first class meeting and also posted on your office door.
  • Office hours can be arranged to use the lab, speak to Chuck Sannes about availability. Post your office hours and the class open times on the lab door.
• Be sure to clearly specify all due dates for lab reports, etc., and also specify the penalty for late or missing material. This should be done well in advance of the due date.
• All GTAs should determine the location of first aid kit, power sources, circuit breakers, fuses, fire extinguishers, fire call boxes, and anything pertaining to the safe and efficient operation of the lab prior to the lab meeting.
  • You won’t have time to do this in an emergency so take care of it before the first lab period.

Observe the policies and procedures in the ECE Dept. General Safety Information document.
Have a copy available to reference, and if there are any questions, contact the lab support staff in 727 EERC, other GTAs, or faculty.

• GTAs – Make sure that the students are properly instructed and observe all safety procedures relevant to your lab.
• GRAs – Follow all safety procedures relevant to your lab and research.

The labs must be kept neat and clean, even research labs. This has been a major problem in the past and will be enforced with the support of the Department Chair. We give tours to many prospective students, faculty, and their families, along with dignitaries and potential donors. Clean labs are important not only for appearance, but also for safe and efficient operation.

• GTAs – Make sure that the students have cleaned-up their work area before they leave.
  • Test leads are to be returned to their proper location on the lead racks.
  • The coaxial leads with the grabber ends should be hung with the grabber ends facing up to keep them off of the floor, so they don’t get stepped on or run-over by a chair wheel.
  • Finally, ensure that the benches are free of any papers, gum wrappers, parts, or other items that do not belong.

Make sure that all the lab doors and cabinets are locked when you leave.

• Some doors have closers on them, while others do not.
• Do not assume that the door is fully closed and locked, check to be sure.
• Be alert for unknown people wandering through the halls, or trying to enter the labs at night or on the weekends.
• We have had major thefts in the past that may have been prevented by an alert grad student.
• If there is a problem, call Public Safety and Police Services at 906-487-2216.

All chemicals must be properly labeled, stored and a SDS sheet must be available on MSDSonline.

• Any chemicals you use must be properly disposed of before you graduate or leave the
  department.
• This will be charged to your (your advisor’s) account.
• See the ECE Dept. General Safety Information document for further details or contact the lab support staff.

Food or drink spills can lead to costly repair or replacement of lab equipment.

• Drinks such as soda can be corrosive to equipment and circuit boards, even water can cause a significant amount of damage.
• GTAs - ABSOLUTELY NO EATING OR DRINKING is allowed in the undergraduate teaching labs.
  • Students who bring food or drink into the lab should be asked to store it in their backpack, if available.
  • If they do not have a backpack, food or drinks with caps or spill-proof lids may be stored on the floor by the bench they are using.
  • No food, cans, bottles or cups are to be allowed on the lab benches.
• GRAs – Some advisors allow food and drink in their research labs, however do not have it near the Department equipment.
  • If a spill occurs, clean it up and report any damages to the lab support staff ASAP.

GTA's – Parts cabinets are located in the teaching labs. These cabinets are stocked with common parts necessary for the lab experiments.

• GTAs – Parts cabinets are located in the teaching labs. These cabinets are stocked with common parts necessary for the lab experiments.
• Always double check the parts or have the students verify they have the correct part, sometimes, the wrong parts get put into the drawers.
• The cabinets are to be kept locked whenever there is not a TA in the room.
• Lab Components
  • Parts for each week’s lab should be placed in the yellow, green, red or black bins provided and a label placed on the bin with the part name and value.
  • If more bins are needed, contact the lab support staff.

  • When students are done with their parts, they should place them in the used parts bins.

  • When students are done with their parts, they should place them in the used parts bins.
  • Used ICs should be placed in the black used parts bin which is anti-static.
  • Used parts are not to be thrown away or returned to the parts cabinets.
  • The lab support staff will sort through the used parts to determine which ones are to be thrown away.
• Expensive components are not to leave the lab. Examples of these are motors, large inductors, transformers, power resistors, some switches - if you are in doubt ask Dr. Archer or the lab support staff.
• Check component supply levels for the labs ahead of time (preferably the week before the experiment) and verify that there will be enough for all the lab sections.
• You are responsible for notifying the lab support staff when parts are getting low (before there are none left), and we will replenish the stock.

GRA's - We have some parts in stock, which we can supply to you as long as we have an account number to charge.

• Think ahead, very little can be bought locally and ordering parts takes time and next-day delivery is expensive.
• We have an editable pdf requisition form for ordering parts. Email ece@mtu.edu to request a copy of the form. Instructions are on the third page.
• Large orders must be placed using a university purchase requisition.
• Again, plan ahead and try not to place many small orders as shipping costs add up. See the lab support staff for details.

 

GTAs – All students should have their own lab tool kit, which they receive in EE2112, EE2174, or EE2180.

• Students are to bring their own toolkit to all labs. If they forget theirs, we do not supply spare toolkits in the labs. If they lose their toolkit, they can purchase another one from the lab support staff (EERC-727)
• If you need a tool kit, see the lab support staff to sign one out for the term.
• At the end of the term either return the tool kit or notify us that you will be using it for the
  next term.

GRAs – The shop has tools that you can use in the shop or check out for short-term use.

• DO NOT remove any tools from the shop without permission from the staff.

Defective Equipment

• GTAs – Red-tag any defective equipment, include a description of the problem.
  • Tags can be found in or on the instructor’s desk or table.
  • Put tagged equipment on the instructor’s desk or table and inform the lab support staff.
  • The equipment will not get fixed if we don’t know about it.
  • Email Chuck Sannes, once it is tagged.
• GRAs – Notify the lab support staff of equipment that needs repair.

Do not remove equipment from the teaching labs without permission.

• If equipment needs to be taken out of the building, an equipment loan form must be filled out and approved by the lab support staff.

When purchasing equipment, fill out a departmental parts requisition form.

• You or your advisor will need to provide an account number to be billed and the account manager must sign the form.
• Turn the form into the lab support staff.
• The lab supervisor will determine if the order can be placed using a credit card or if a university purchase requisition is necessary.
• If a purchase requisition is required, the lab supervisor will assist you in preparing and submitting the form to Purchasing.

Most companies have component and equipment data sheets on-line and many have application
notes and technical papers on-line. We have a good supply of reference and data books in the shop (727 EERC).

• You are welcome to use these books, however if you want to take them out of the shop, they must be signed-out.

The lab support staff has keys for the desks & cabinets in the labs and offices.

• If you need a key for one of these; write down the number on the lock and come to 727 EERC and we will sign a key out to you.
• Keys are to be returned when you no longer need them - whether you move within the department or leave the department.
• Room keys and master keys are handled by Public Safety and Police Services; see Chuck Sannes in 727 EERC, if you need to obtain one of these keys.

Machine Shop

The department has a machine shop in EERC-SB12 and we have a limited capacity to fabricate or modify wood, metal or plastic items.

• If you need something fabricated or modified take a well-documented drawing to EERC 727.
• You will also need to provide an account index number to be billed for any parts or materials that we supply.
• As mentioned, we are limited in support in the machine shop. For bigger or more precise
  projects you will need to work with the MMET shop.

Printed Circuit Board

We can fabricate single and double-sided circuit boards in the shop.

• If you are not familiar with the EAGLE CAD package and our fabrication requirements, we have “hand-outs” on circuit board layout and using the EAGLE CAD program and we will assist as needed.
• We CANNOT create plated holes so this will need to be considered when designing a board.
• Once your design is complete, a Circuit Board Requisition Form must be filled out and submitted to the lab support staff in EERC-727.

Software

All software questions/problems should be directed to:

• the IT User Support group (906) 487-1111,it-help@mtu.edu, the help desk in the library, 1st floor.

Windows

There is a “No Open Window” policy in the department. We do not need rain or bats in the labs or frozen pipes in the winter. Yes, these have all happened several times in the past. Therefore, do not attempt to open the windows.

• Use caution, especially in winter, as floors are likely to have wet spots and be slippery. 
• Sidewalks may be icy so slow down and take smaller steps. Use handrails on steps and stairs.

• Do not store anything within 18 inches of a sprinkler head. 
• Use a ladder or approved step stool to reach high items. Don’t stand on swivel chairs or desks! 

• No heavy lifting - get help (improper lifting is one of the biggest causes of accidents at MTU).

•  The biggest cause of injury on campus is cuts and lacerations.
  • Please be mindful of your appendages when opening boxes, dealing with sharps, and using tools and utensils.
• Details on all safety policies are located on MTU’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) website. 
• Questions can also be addressed by the department safety liaison, Mark Sloat, in 727 EERC

In the event of a fire or fire alarm, evacuate the building by following exit signs and using stairways. The building must be evacuated and everyone should meet outside, in front of the EERC building, at least 50 feet away from the building. 

• All rooms should have an evacuation plan affixed to, or near, the door if you are unfamiliar with the building. 
•  Do not use the elevators to egress the building, as power may be disrupted and you may be trapped inside.
• Treat all fire alarms as the real thing - don’t assume it is a drill!

An Incident and Injury Report Form is required for all accidents. This form is located in Banweb and is filled out by the injured person’s supervisor (TA’s are defined as the supervisors of their teaching labs). The incident report form must be filled out, and submitted, within 24 hours of the injury.

• First aid kits are located in most labs, as well as the main office 121 EERC with Band-Aids and other minor items.
• All accidents need to be reported; not to assign blame, but to correct the safety hazards.
  • Accidents include: personal injury, fire, flood, and hazardous chemical spills. 
• Major injuries – Dial 911 for ambulance or go to emergency at UP Health System located in Hancock 
• Minor injuries – Use the UP Health Systems or Aspirus walk-in clinic 
  • Dean of Students - Student Safety and Emergency Procedures
  • Near misses must also be reported!

All supported graduate students (GRA’s, GTA’s, Graders, & Fellowships) are required to complete online training courses.

• These course modules vary depending on the job responsibilities of each student.
• Supported graduate students will receive an email from UL Pure Safety notifying him or her of the required module. and includes a deadline date
• The username and password will be your MTU username and password. 
•  All training should be completed in a timely manner.

All of our labs have a sign posted on the door with pertinent safety information, including the name and contact information of the person responsible for that particular lab.Two or more authorized people need to be present at all times if working in any teaching lab. No exceptions! 

Two or more authorized people need to be present at all times if working in any teaching lab. No exceptions! 

• Labs must be kept neat and aisle-ways unobstructed. Do not store anything in aisle-ways or hallways so as to prevent egress from the building in the event of an emergency. 
• No food or drink in any teaching lab.

• No Sandals or bare feet in any lab! Footwear will provide some protection if something heavy falls on your feet. 
• No long hair, jewelry, ties, gloves or other loose clothing around rotating machines.
• Wear pants while soldering to avoid burns from molten solder if dripped or splattered

• No child under the age of 12 is permitted in any lab unless he or she is enrolled in an MTU program and authorized by the department chair. 
• Anyone between the ages of 13 to 16 must be supervised at all times. 

• All Chemicals must be in original containers or in appropriate containers clearly marked with the original container information. 
• No chemicals are to be left overnight on benches. 
•  All chemicals marked flammable are to be stored in a fire-retardant or flammable safety cabinet. 
• All corrosive chemicals are to be stored in an acid/corrosive safety cabinet. 

• Approved Chemical safety goggles (splash resistant) must be worn when working with splash eye hazards. 

It is your right to know all information regarding the chemicals you may be working with.

• If you are working with any chemical, read the SDS documentation for pertinent information on PPE, handling, storage, hazards, and disposal of chemicals BEFORE using them. 
• The ECE Department utilizes a program titled MSDSonline
  • Access to MSDSonline can be found under the heading “Need to Know” on MTU’s homepage or by utilizing the QR code on lab signage. 
  • All EERC spaces that contain chemicals will have a dedicated folder under the MTU “E-binder”. 
• If you need a chemical for your research that is not currently in your lab, please see Mark Sloat or Chuck Sannes in 727 EERC (with approval from your faculty advisor). This will ensure that our E-binder is up to date, and we may be able to acquire that chemical from another department if only a small amount is required. 
• Order the appropriate amount for your research; excess chemical storage is strongly discouraged! 

All chemicals must be properly disposed of or transferred before leaving the Department and/or University. 

• See the department safety liaison, Mark Sloat, in 727 EERC if you have questions. 

• For minor chemical spills of a non-toxic nature see Chuck Sannes or Mark Sloat in 727 EERC for absorbent material
• For major toxic or flammable liquid spills, evacuate the area, activate the fire pull, and call 911.
  • Warn others not to enter the area if they are heading in that direction. 

As little as 50 volts can kill under the right conditions.

• Generally, anything above 25mA is considered dangerous since it can potentially cause the heart to go into ventricular fibrillation, which can happen in as little time as ¼ second. 
• Currents in the range of 70mA to 300mA are potentially fatal without immediate first aid.
• With currents through the body of greater than 25mA you may not be able to “let go”. 

• Procedures have been put in place and can be found here: Electrical Safety Work Practices as well as MTU’s Lock out Tagout program: Hazardous Energy Control Program.

Electrical components can also be a cause of serious injury

• A resistor that is operated over its power rating can burn causing a fire, or burst causing sparks and flying debris.
• Capacitors can explode causing the end cap to shoot out with enough force to damage one’s eye.
• Make sure you understand electrical components before using them.

• Batteries can explode due to escaping hydrogen gas, especially during charging; ensure adequate ventilation and keep away from ignition sources. 
• Always keep a cap or protective cover over the positive battery terminal, which will prevent the terminals from shorting if something is accidentally dropped. 
• Always have a neutralizing agent, such as baking soda, available. 
• Always read and understand the manufacturer’s recommendations before charging any type of rechargeable battery

• Use ground fault interrupters (GFCI’s) if you are working around water or wet environments.
• Extension cords may be used on a temporary basis (8 hours or less) only, but do not “daisy chain” extension cords to make them longer. Ensure the extension cord is properly rated for current. 

• Safety glasses must be worn while soldering, and while cutting excess leads.
• Prolonged breathing of solder vapors is harmful so use a carbon activated fume extractor or vent hood and wash your hands immediately after soldering. 

All rotating machines must have safety guards in place and do not wear loose items when working on or around rotating machinery (See clothing section above).

• Always operate equipment in accordance with the operating manuals and observe safety cautions. 
• Under no circumstances are you to remove protective covers or cases. 
• If the equipment is faulty, do not attempt to fix it yourself - contact Chuck Sannes or Mark Sloat in 727 EERC, (906) 487-2134.

Special training is required before using any laser equipment. Special safety glasses along with other handling procedures need to be followed depending on the class and type of laser. Special training and procedures are to be given by the professor or TA in charge of the particular laser lab and detailed in the lab procedure.

• Email - it-help@mtu.edu
• Call (906) 487-1111
• Visit the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) – Library, 1st floor. Hours and services are posted on IT’s website. 

• EERC 421 - 24-seat Windows Lab - Available when not used for classes 
• EERC 421 - 24-seat Windows Lab - Available when not used for classes 

EERC 318 - available 24/7 - has Husky BW printer

Other computer locations across campus - Computer Labs on Campus 

General info for Graduate students: Resources for Students

HuskyPrint locations across campus: HuskyPrint locations across campus

• Your Michigan Tech account and HuskyCard access are automatically enabled/disabled based on whether or not you are enrolled for the current semester. 
• If you are not enrolled in the current semester and need access, your advisor will need to send a request to IT to grant access.

• 24-hour access
• Your HuskyCard gets you in the door provided you are registered for the term.

• Account Name: Your email address without the @mtu.edu
• Michigan Tech Password
  • This was mailed to you from the university. It is the password you use in email, Banweb, MyMichiganTech 

Passwords can be changed at: Account Center

• Accessing your email: gmail.com
• Your email address: accountname@mtu.edu
• Google Workspace log in: accountname 
• Michigan Tech password

• Connect to eduroam
• Username: accountname@mtu.edu
• Password: Michigan Tech password

Wireless access available at the following locations:

• SB Floor partial coverage
• 1st Floor partial coverage
• 2nd Floor coverage
• 5th Floor partial coverage
• 6th Floor coverage
• 7th Floor coverage
• 8th Floor coverage

Contact IT for assistance, if needed, at it-help@mtu.edu or call 906-487-1111

• ECE Specific Remote Access Servers
• Remote Login Host (ssh): login.mtu.edu
• Windows Terminal Server: remote.mtu.edu
• Contact IT at it-help@mtu.edu or call 906-487-1111

• Your account is for your use only
• Do NOT install software on the PCs / Do NOT reformat
• Be considerate of others
• Lab Behavior
• Disk Usage
• Printing
• NO food or drink in the labs

• Self-service IT support: Use the IT Support Center to find useful information in our IT knowledge base and submit and view your IT requests.
• Send email to IT: it-help@mtu.edu
• Call IT: (906) 487-1111
• Visit IT in person: Technical Assistance Center - 1st floor of the Library
• Instructor for course-related questions
• Other students