If you are interested in the modeling and design of dynamic engineering systems, you might consider taking GE 598 this semester, a special topics course that will explore model-based approaches for designing dynamic systems. Most engineering graduate students will have the background necessary to be successful in the course.
An extended course description is available here:
http://systemdesign.illinois.edu/teaching/GE598_SP12.pdf
Here is the short description:
GE 598: Dynamic System Modeling and Design
Integrated approaches to the modeling, analysis, and design of linear and nonlinear dynamic systems. Emphasis on engineering applications and energy efficiency. Techniques for whole-systems design, accounting for interactions and synergies between subsystems, between modeling and design tasks, and between physical system design and control system design. Students propose term projects that utilize course methodology for the solution of a dynamic system design problem.
Prerequisites include undergraduate ordinary differential equations (such as MATH 284/285/286) and multivariate calculus (such as MATH 241).
James T. Allison
Assistant Professor
Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering