3.3

Michael Carswell

Engineering - University of Alabama

3.3
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
59%
Would Retake
119
Reviews
3.3
Quality
3.7
Difficulty
3.3
Helpful
3.3
Clarity

59%

Would Retake

119

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
119 total ratings

5

28

4

36

3

19

2

16

1

20

What Students Say

Carswell has a personality that is likable to some, but others hate him

ENGR103 - 4.0 rating

Carswell is the worst Professor/teacher I have ever even witnessed in my entire life

ENGR103 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

71%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 85 grades
Most common grades:
A (17)
A+ (15)
B (12)
Grade Distribution
A(32)B(17)C(16)D(6)F(1)A-/B+(18)
Based on 97 reported grades
A: 17
A+: 15
B: 12
B+: 10
Common Tags
Test heavy (25)
Skip class? You won't pass. (24)
Hilarious (21)
Tough grader (20)
Participation matters (17)
Lecture heavy (15)
Clear grading criteria (11)
Graded by few things (8)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.19 avg change
Jan
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECE320

4.4

(7)

ECE383

4.0

(1)

EN103

4.0

(2)

ENGR123

3.8

(33)

ENGR103

3.2

(63)
+5 more courses
Difficulty by Course

103

4.5

ENGR103005

4.0

ENGR103

3.9

ENG131

3.7

EN103

3.5

Reviews (118)
3.0
5.0
ECE320
Dec 13, 2011

Not a bad teacher, but a terrible person. He told us flat out he was going to make our life a living hell. He laughs while telling us he's going to make our final as tough as he can by giving us things we've never seen and seeing if we can figure it out on the fly. On the final, a simple fractional math error will cost the entire problem

5.0
4.0
ECE320
Apr 26, 2012

It is a hard subject to teach but he does a good job and really wants you to understand. He goes through many examples to help you understand the material. His tests are not hard if you understand the material rather than memorized the material.

5.0
4.0
ECE320
May 1, 2012

Very good teacher, clear and explains procedures to solve problems in a step by step fashion in order to really help the understanding of material. Tests are based off of the material taught in class and homework, no tricks, but time restraint can play a huge role in performance. I suggest you take a class under this teacher.

4.0
3.0
ECE320
May 4, 2012

Nice guy. Really wants you to do well. Difficult subject to teach but he does PLENTY of examples and his tests are based on similar stuff done in class. If you understand the material you will do fine on the tests

5.0
4.0
ECE320
Nov 17, 2012

Super nice. Explains examples very well. He will work with you to help you understand anything that is unclear. I think as long as you show you are really trying in the class, you will have no problem passing. You do have to actually do the homework and study to dully understand the material though. Oh, and he's got jokes! Corny but cute, haha! (;

4.0
1.0
ENG131
Mar 18, 2013

He's there to teach someone else's course... He's a nice guy who is pretty monotone when it comes to lectures. He goes through all the slides and all the examples. The course material is nothing special, so it almost feels like he did too much sometimes .

1.0
4.0
103
Grade: B
Oct 22, 2014

He's very rude. not helpful. very bitter

1.0
5.0
103
Grade: C
Nov 12, 2014

Worst class ever. It is a freshmen course, and it was miserable. Apparently they changed it this year, so maybe that's why it's so difficult. Mr. Carswell is condescending and rude and I couldn't stand him in class. I can't wait to be done with his class and never see him again. If you do poorly (you most likely will), he blames you, not himself.

2.0
5.0
ENGR103
Nov 20, 2014

He isn't that bad of a professor, but he is teaching a class that includes material he never learned as a student. The ENGR 103 class itself is the hardest class I've ever taken. The tests are ridiculous and impossible to get close to an A on. They rush through the material because they try to fit things from every profession in the class.

3.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: B-
Dec 5, 2014

Carswell is a good guy and really tries to make coming to class fun, but the course is just overwhelming. The material itself is intended for upperclassmen, yet it is expected to be understood by incoming freshmen. The homework is never-ending and the tests are extremely hard. IF you make it to the end, don't expect to get a good grade.

2.0
4.0
ENGR103005
Dec 5, 2014

Relatively unprofessional and borderline rude. Decent teacher, but not helpful - your questions just turn into questions.

5.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2014

Good teacher, but the class was terrible. Despite Carswell's decent teaching, the extremely hard and stupid grading of homework and extremely difficult tests made the class extremely hard to pass the class with a decent grade.

2.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Dec 26, 2014

ENGR 103 was a disaster no matter the professor, but Carswell didn't make it any better. He was unhelpful, and not very clear in lectures. Tests were far more difficult than what they should have been, and the ridiculous amount of homework took hours to complete. Just get through the class- it's a weed out anyway.

3.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A+
Feb 26, 2015

Mr. Carswell wasn't a horrible teacher but ENGR 103 itself was. For as bad as this class was, he at least made it entertaining so I didn't dread going to class. Be prepared because the TAs grade the homework and are painfully inconsistent. The homework itself is usually very vague with poor diagrams and tests have a ton of trick questions.

3.0
4.0
103
Grade: B-
Apr 27, 2015

103 is a stressful and hard course regardless but Carswell did an okay job of teaching it. The tests are hard and there is homework due every day. He doesn't really respond to emails and doesn't really care about his student's success. His lectures are straightforward but he doesn't do a very good job explaining them. Not the worst, not the best!

4.0
3.0
ECE383
Jul 29, 2015

Great guy, but he doesn't really tell you what's going to be on the test in-depth. "Go over the lecture slides" BUT his test are fair and pretty easy if you do the readings and actually pay attention in lab. Don't expect a drop lab grade, but he does drop the lowest test grade. Don't expect a curve, you earn your grade in this class.

4.0
3.0
ECE320
Nov 4, 2015

I had heard this course was awful but Mr Carswell was clear and to the point and he made the class enjoyable. Works through a lot of examples. Going to class is a must and requires paying attention. He only assigned two tests so make them count. I'm not saying it is easy stuff but practice is necessary. Also he is a pretty funny guy.

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Dec 8, 2015

Carswell wasn't necessarily the best teacher ever but 103 is a pretty difficult class as it is, and he was extremely helpful and wanted everyone to understand. He does throw out a lot of trick questions and there are pop quizzes. Overall, he makes the class enjoyable and he's fun but it's a hard class, so hard work is required to make good grades.

5.0
2.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2015

Carswell is a good teacher. He runs through a lot of examples. The only reason this class was challenging at all to me is because of the grading. The TAs take off a ridiculous amount on homework for not having the right format. Overall the class is not too hard if you took physics or engineering in highschool. Pretty much a basic physics class.

5.0
1.0
ECE320
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2015

Good at communicating difficult material in an understandable way. Funny and very relatable to students. The class is easier if you go to class and do his examples. Homework was sporadic and online, which often wasn't relevant to the material. Going to lectures are the best way to do well on exams. Has a couple tests with simplified problems.

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C
Dec 16, 2015

I've had to take this class twice. I had McCarthy first, she not the best. Carswell is a better teacher. He likes to crack some jokes sometimes. He gives out pop quizzes but after that the class is simple. Make sure you do all your work and use the Engenuity lab in Paty for help they have tutors in their for this class.

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Jan 14, 2016

Carswell is interested in what he teaches. He goes through his slides and answers questions unless he thinks you should already know. This is not an easy A. They make you work for your grade and if you don't understand the concepts thoroughly you will get lost fast. Go to class. Do the homework.

1.0
5.0
ENG131
Mar 6, 2016

He is the worst class with him, he does not explain for examples and he doesn't write any examples on the Whiteboard so do not take any class with him if you are looking for GPA and knowledge

5.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A-
Mar 24, 2016

Carswell was an awesome teacher and really wants to see all of his students succeed. Yes the class can be difficult but that is not because of him that is purely the curriculum. Carswell adds a fun aspect to the class making jokes that really helped me wake up for the class because I took it at 8 am. I highly recommend him for Engineering 103.

4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
Mar 29, 2016

Makes a very tough and boring class entertaining. Good teacher and is there for you when you need help. Sticks to the guidelines of the course but will be understanding of the course's difficulty. Cracks jokes to lighten the mood. Great teacher and makes sure the class understands before moving on. Would recommend.

3.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: C
Apr 6, 2016

Carswell is a very interesting person to have as a professor, he is very funny and loves to make jokes and whitty commentss. The class its self is hard, and I think Carswell does as well as can be expected in teaching this class. Beware, he like to scare pregnant woman! (a joke from his 103 class)

3.0
3.0
ENGR103
May 4, 2016

Hes a pretty good professor. Hes pretty young and cool, and will probably read this. If you'd ask him a question he'd be vague about it and stare at you like you're an idiot expecting you to figure it out. If I sought you in your office hours, its pretty obvious I was lost on it and couldn't figure it out. But overall, id take him again.

3.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
May 7, 2016

This class is hard in general, but Carswell tries to make it fun and interesting. There are too many concepts to learn in a short time. The tests are hard. I failed every single last one of them except the final. I ended up with a C-, so do all the homework, labs, and be prepared for pop quizzes daily. Homework is graded very harshly

2.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
Aug 10, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Michael Carswell is such a tough instructor. The class is heavy, too much details on it, and Carwell tries not too make it very simple. He makes every things very serious. He is not FAIR in grading drawings, quizzes, and focusing on very tiny mistakes. I took with him ENGR 103 and I seriously DO NOT recommed him.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 8, 2016
Would take again

Mr. Carswell is probably my favorite teacher this semester. His class is tough, but he makes sure that you learn the material. Don't skip class, even though attendance isn't taken. He gives quizzes about once a week, and you don't wanna miss those. I love his teaching style, which is very interactive, and I love that he brings humor in lectures.

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: B+
Dec 4, 2016
Would take again

He is a good teacher. He is snarky sometimes, but he is also funny. He is open to questions but can make you feel dumb sometimes. Besides that, I enjoyed having him, the class was easy and it was always clear what we had to do.

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C+
Dec 8, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Mr. Carswell was a very strict professor. He does not believe in extra credit because he says that every student earns the grade they get at that is that. Pop quizzes are almost in every class and he gives only 5 minutes for you to take it. I would not take his class again just due to how tough it was. You will need to work VERY hard.

Tough Grader
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
GROUP PROJECTS
2.0
4.0
ENGR103
Jan 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I would not recommend Carswell to anybody he is one of the hardest teachers I have ever had. He gives pop quizzes the majority of classes and doesn't do a good job of actually teaching the concepts. He also told us we didn't need to buy the textbook when you actually need it to study.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: C+
Jan 10, 2017
Would take again

If you enjoy sarcasm then Carswells class will be pretty entertaining. He is a cool guy and will go back and forth with you. However his class is really hard and the practice tests he gives you are nothing like the real tests. The pop quizzes are not bad if you review right before class. I didn't buy the textbook but it's good for extra problems.

4.0
5.0
ENGR103
Feb 22, 2017
Would take again

Good teacher, hard subject matter. He teaches it well and his lectures have a good format.

Clear grading criteria
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
TEST HEAVY
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Apr 26, 2017
Would take again

I love Mr. Carswell. He was amazing at explaining the material and he made the class at least slightly interesting. He has an enjoyable sense of humor and his grading policies are fair. He's one of the harder engr 103 professors, but you'll learn a lot from him.

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: Not sure yet
May 3, 2017
Would take again

He may seem pretty intimidating at times but if you go to him personally for help he is extremely nice and helpful. Really tries to help students understand the material rather than just feed us the info. It really depends on how engaged you choose to be. If you put in the effort to learn he's really helpful

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C+
May 5, 2017
Would take again

ENGR 103 is a hard class, and Carswell is not the guy to take if you haven't had physics or are shaky in that field. Sometimes he can move fast through steps in his problem solving but overall he keeps the class pretty fresh and tries to convince you that you'll do fine.

Hilarious
GROUP PROJECTS
3.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A-
Nov 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Carswell is a decent teacher, however, you will get a lower grade if you take his class as opposed to many of the other Engr 103 professors. His TA's grade hard and there is no chance to get points back or extra credit (other professors offer this). In short, if you can get another professor. If you do take his class, go over his notes before tests

Tough Grader
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2017
Would take again

Curriculum for the class is tough just because they throw every engineering concept at you in one semester, but if you come to class and make a genuine effort to understand the material, Carswell will notice and give you help. Not excessive amounts of hw, studying the lectures outside of class is a must. He doesn't tolerate excuses..

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A+
Apr 10, 2018
Would take again

Carswell has very clear expectations for his students and is a fair grader. Attendance isn't technically mandatory but he will randomly check to see who is there and he will take points away if you don't come (you don't get any points for coming). Tests are directly from the lectures which are engaging. He's a tough professor but worth taking.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
ENGR103
Jun 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Carswell is definitely a smart dude and knows his material but he sucks at teaching. Only reads off his slides and goes through the problems without much explanation. Basically teach yourself everything.

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B+
Oct 15, 2018
Would take again

Carswell could explain engineering and physics to just about anyone. His lectures actually helped me pass my physics and calculus classes! The tests are difficult, but if you put in the effort in class and on labs, it's nothing to worry about. Though he can be intimidating at first, he's got great humor and makes the material interesting.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
3.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B-
Oct 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He does know what he is talking about, but is very vague in explaining it. I try not to say anything in class because he will make you feel dumb for saying anything wrong. The tests are extremely challenging but he has old tests on Blackboard. But honestly if you just do the homework and give some effort into the class, you'll pass.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
2.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
Nov 13, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Do NOT recommend if you have not taken any previous engineering classes, he does not treat this as an intro class. Class consists of him briefly reading directly off his slides. He always asks if there are questions but every time someone asks a question he answers with a rude remark and makes you feel dumb. No homework or study guides are given.

Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Dec 17, 2018
Would take again

Carswell is very polarizing. You either hate him or love him. His teaching style is somewhat demeaning, but its understandable considering some of the students in the class. I enjoyed being a part of his class and would take him again, but if you're easily offended, it is better to just take someone else.

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2018
Would take again

This class was very challenging for me, but I had not taken any physics courses. Carswell has a personality that is likable to some, but others hate him. If you feel comfortable with physics and aren't easily offended, this is probably the best option for you. Grades were based on assignments, tests, labs, and the exam.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: A-
Jan 4, 2019
Would take again

I loved having him. He made a challenging class fun to take.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: B+
Mar 5, 2019
Would take again

Carswell is definitely a professor that teaches you more than you would expect. This class is hard all around, and the tests are really difficult. But if you put in the effort, he's more than willing to help you understand the information and learn it. He won't sugar coat anything, so be aware of that. Overall, one of my favorite professors.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Mar 28, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Carswell is the worst Professor/teacher I have ever even witnessed in my entire life. He has ZERO respect for his students, making everyone feel dumb for asking a question, making rude comments directly and more. This class is not a learning environment whatsoever. Every lecture feels like youre being ridiculed even if you know the info. DONT DO I

Graded by few things
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
May 1, 2019
Would take again

The best teacher I've had here so far! He's very fair and actually cares that students learn and understand the material rather than just memorize formulas. If you put in the effort, you will do well and he is more than willing to help you! He also makes class really fun and will joke around with you, which isn't something most professors do!!

4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
May 7, 2019
Would take again

Carswell is a very caring person, but is also very strict. Be prepared every time when entering class because it is very beneficial and also do this quizzes. Overall, he is a great teacher and loves when you go to see him in his office because he shows you care about the course which is very important.

5.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A-
Oct 29, 2019
Would take again

These ratings honestly should me much higher. Carswell is a strict teacher in a sense, but he cares about his students. He really just wants his students to learn concepts and to develop complete understandings without having to memorize or rely on formulas and whatnot. If you put in the work and show up to class, the results will be in your favor.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2019
Would take again

Great guy that wants to see his students succeed. He focuses more on you learning the material rather than memorizing and the test will prove it. He gets to know each of his students and makes it a priority to

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Jan 8, 2020
Would take again

Don't be fooled by the name of the class. it might be an intro class but its certainly difficult. That being said Carswell doesn't really do you any favors. Be prepared for class as he values participation. The PowerPoints are all on Blackboard so definitely look at those before class. Ace the first test as it's by far the easiest...

Participation matters
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B
Jan 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

He's the best teacher you can get for ENGR 103, but don't go in hoping to casually enjoy his company - he makes fun of his students, makes you look stupid for asking questions, and never answers a question outright. You'll hate him sometimes and then sometimes he'll be decent. "Frustrating" might be the best word choice here.

Participation matters
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 25, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Do not take ENGR103 in the fall of freshman year. It is very difficult and Carswell is especially unforgiving. He doesn't like questions (I was literally told in an email to "use my common sense") and no rounding, curving, or extra credit is offered. Even with reading, watching all lectures, and going to class, I still struggled immensely.

Tough grader
Group projects
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 18, 2020
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT take this class your first semester at UA. I transferred in as a Junior with a 3.7 GPA and still had a hard time. Carswell overall is a good guy, but he definitely has a smart tone with students at times. I took this as a hybrid (during COVID-19) and he lectured over Blackboard which made the material very very hard to understand.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2020
Would take again

These ratings should be much higher. ENGR 103 content is difficult, but Carswell does a great job explaining concepts and genuinely wants students to succeed. You must put in the work required to pass, it won't get handed to you. Carswell is hilarious and likes to have fun with students. A lot of students are easily offended by his jokes - don't be

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Caring
3.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2020
Would take again

Michael Carswell definitely knows his material for Engineering Foundations. His lectures are detailed, and he explains the concepts fairly well. However, he can come across as arrogant and may make you feel dumb a time or two for asking questions. Overall though I do believe he prepares his students to start thinking like engineers.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Mar 1, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I'll be honest. I can take a joke. I'll laugh at the worst jokes. This guy will look at you and tell you that you look awful at 8 am and get mad if you don't laugh. It's a wild experience. He lacks the ability to comprehend how students learn and will tell you that your struggles have nothing to do with him. Don't take him if possible.

1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Mar 24, 2021
Wouldn't take again

A smart guy, but RUDE and a TERRIBLE instructor. He claims that he prepares you for the real world but his lectures are just him reading off a powerpoint. Sometimes you go straight from lecture to test with no assignment in between. If you have a question, just dont expect him to help you with it. Hell just accuse you of not being prepared.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ENG131
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 1, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor I have ever had. He is extremely disrespectful and does not help you at all. I would email him with questions and he would tell me to re-read the instructions. I would give him a 0/5 if I could. DO NOT TAKE HIS CLASS.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Where do I even begin. BEWARE of this professor if you have a learning disorder. He communicates with egregious amounts of sarcasm and rhetorical questions. He does not answer questions regarding the material, which sucked because the concepts in the online lectures were so poorly explained/executed. Simply put, he is an ineffective instructor.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
ENGR103
Grade: A+
Apr 19, 2021
Would take again

He doesn't like when no one talks, so just raise your hand and answer his questions and he'll like you, which makes it a whole lot easier. He genuinely wants his students to learn, so show effort and you'll be straight. Also his deadlines are the most relaxed out of any of the 103 profs so getting work done on time isn't an issue.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 27, 2021
Would take again

Tests and the final are 85% of the grade. While he does like trick questions, he genuinely cares for his students and wants them to better themselves. There are many drawings and assignments throughout the semester, so don't worry about screwing one up. The material isn't hard, but he will test your full knowledge, so don't let your guard down.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
1.0
ENGR103
Grade: D
Apr 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Every time I went to class, it consisted of him yelling at us for not doing well enough. He even cursed us out in class. His lecture videos are hours upon hours of vague ultimately unhelpful explanations. The one test he wrote for the course was failed by most. He then proceeded to blame the hundreds of Fs for that test on student mentality AVOID

Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
May 4, 2021
Would take again

The overall ENGR 103 course is difficult, no matter the teacher. I just ended my semester with a C- in the course, but Carswell is a great instructor. He gives tough love at first, but he does genuinely care about his students and wants them to succeed. The grade u get is the grade u deserve, but if u ask questions he'll give the motivation u need

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Caring
3.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A-
Dec 8, 2021
Would take again

I hated him at first because he was flippant with questions and I didn't like his sense of humor (it's offensive sometimes), but as the semester went on he chilled out and became a lot more willing to help and answer questions as well as more patient. I like him now, the class was hard but he knows what he's talking about. Basically no homework too

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B+
Dec 9, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This was a terrible class. He spends more time telling students they need to work harder than actually teaching. He is very unprofessional.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2021
Would take again

He box jumped a desk in class, and it was pretty funny, so I have to give him credit for that! With that being said, he can be very hard on you but seems to relax as the semester goes on. Sometimes you'll love him, and sometimes he'll be hard on you. Make sure to start studying for the tests a few days prior and you should be good.

4.0
4.0
ENGR123
Dec 16, 2021
Would take again

Carswell is a unique teacher. The way that he teaches makes the student really think about what they are doing, which can be frustrating at the time but leads to a better understanding in the long run. Do not take him if you are easily offended, as some of his jokes can miss the mark, but I found them overall pretty funny.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Group projects
5.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: A-
Dec 17, 2021
Would take again

I really liked Carswell. I definitely recommend him for 123 over 103 if youre honors. He definitely doesnt baby you but hes a resonable guy and he really does want to help. Test heavy but its all multiple choice tests, study the material and old tests and you should be fine. Also I thought his jokes were funny but Im not easily offended so

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 12, 2022
Wouldn't take again

This is a weed-out class. Unhelpful and frustrating. Makes fun of you if you ask questions. Expects you to already know how to do everything. Heavy workload. Spends more time yelling at students than going over material. Reads directly off of slides, no explanations. Worst professor I've ever had. Avoid.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
ENGR123
Apr 15, 2022
Would take again

Mr. Carswell lectures each day off a powerpoint, so its helpful to review topics before class so you can participate. Mr. Carswell's personality and humor doesn't click with some people but you just have to get used to it and he usually just teases but he does care about his students. Can confirm that he box jumped the desk. Have to put in the work

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
EN103
Grade: B
May 10, 2022
Would take again

He really grinds you down in the beginning part of his class to try and set everyone into a mindset that they need to study for this class, and then once he realizes you take the class seriously he becomes way better. Dude can be tough but if you ask him questions and study, he wont shame you for asking serious questions. Decent Professor.

Tough grader
Group projects
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Nov 16, 2022
Would take again

ENGR 123 or 103 are NOT weed out classes. If you've ever taken any AP Physics, then this is literally a cakewalk. I skipped class at least a few times a month and still got 105's on the tests. Carswell is a pretty good prof. His personality is very "f you and I don't care" so buckle up if you're a snowflake. Take him if you can. Makes you think

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ENGR123
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 6, 2022

Carswell is a very interesting guy, but he's a terrible professor. If you don't have a basic understanding of the concepts of class beforehand, it is very difficult to keep up. You will have to teach yourself the topics outside of class. When students ask questions, he often talks down to them in a degrading manner. Take someone else!

5.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2022
Would take again

Going to the lectures is important even if it is not mandatory. Not the hardest class in the world but don't procrastinate.

Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2022
Would take again

Absolutely loved the energy in the class, however, not for the easily offended. Would have had a MUCH better grade, had I taken the "0 for late work" more seriously. Only issue is that he changed a due date last minute and never acknowledged his mistake. When I was unable to complete it so last minute, he would not accept my very good excuse...

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
3.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: A-
Dec 18, 2022

1) Carswell is very tough. His sense of humor is crude and makes fun of people. If you don't like that or can't handle that take another prof. If not, you're good. 2) He gives zero instructions on labs, but the grade is partly based on your understanding. I should've failed 2 labs, but I didn't. 3) If you have never taken physics like me, good luck

Tough grader
Group projects
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Dec 28, 2022
Would take again

Carswell's sense of humor is somewhat niche, and he may come off as offensive for many people. Also, he does joke about students' questions occasionally. However, the material was easy to understand (especially if you have any sort of background in AP physics) and his tests were fair. No complaints overall.

Hilarious
2.0
5.0
ENGR123
Grade: C
Jan 3, 2023

I would not take this professor without having a strong background in physics.

Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Jan 8, 2023
Would take again

The class is difficult for most students, but too many blame that on Carswell. He covers everything you NEED to know in lectures. Labs have little instruction, but graded partially on effort. Tests are 55% of grade, so study. If you're sensitive, take someone else as he does not care about what society wants him to keep out of his jokes. 10/10 IMO

Participation matters
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
3.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 21, 2023

Out of all of the Engr 103 professors, I don't think Professor Carswell is the best choice. He is more strict than the others, and his class time isn't very productive. He will probably do maybe 2 or 3 practice problems from the slides and the rest is him talking.

1.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Apr 13, 2023

Jokes most of class and does very few practice problems. The problems in the lecture will never be the same material as the tests.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
May 2, 2023
Would take again

Good professor who knows what he's talking about. You can always ask him questions, and he's usually willing to stay a good bit after class to answer questions. He's very strict about work (especially late work), and puts a lot of emphasis on putting in work outside of class.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: A+
Nov 8, 2023
Would take again

Michael is an interesting fella, who does not care about your feelings and he makes that abundantly clear when the course begins. If you do something stupid, he will call you out and make fun of you for it, having said that the class is not for snowflakes. He is a great teacher who explains things well, use his office hours and participate in class

Participation matters
Hilarious
2.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 5, 2023

Take any other ENGR 103 professor besides him. He makes you look dumb when you ask a question in class, and expects everyone to know the content beforehand. Buy the textbook, as the slides aren't useful. I will admit that he calmed down towards the end of the semester, but DON'T take him. I'm convinced he inflates his own RateMyProfessor reviews.

Test heavy
5.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Dec 8, 2023
Would take again

He did a box jump on the desk the week before finals.

Hilarious
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ENGR103
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2023

Take the class with any other professor. Carswell is very strict and the last guy you want as your professor. Your Lab grades will be all A's with any teacher except Carswell. Do yourself a favor and take any other professor. He never reviews and prides himself on the copious amount of kids who fail his class; seems like all he ever talks about.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

Prof. Carswell gets a bad rap but he was my favorite professor this semester. Loved his lectures. Great guy, can be teasing but he can take what he dishes so play along and it'll make lectures so much better. Participate in class, he likes that and it's the best way to make the course fun. Material isn't too hard, just study and you'll be fine

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2023
Would take again

My opinion of him probably changed every class but overall I did like him. Sometimes he would say/do things that left me in shock (box jumped a desk!) and I was too intimidated to ask questions. Sometimes makes things harder than necessary but he truly wanted us to understand the material. Tests/HW/labs/material wasn't too bad just study as needed.

Participation matters
Group projects
Hilarious
1.0
2.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Dec 18, 2023

This professor is ok at teaching material. However he has no respect for his students and he would make fun of, name call, and shame students just for his own enjoyment. No professor should bully their students as it is completely unethical. Take any other professor for this course just not Carswell who takes pride in failing and devaluing students

Tough grader
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Dec 29, 2023
Would take again

He is intimidating because he asks students "trick" conceptual questions, but he is trying to make students understand at a deeper level. Because of this, his lectures are complicated and not as directly associated to the tests as others, but the tests are easy in comparison. Prepare for class if you don't want to be embarrassed by the questions.

4.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: B+
Jan 8, 2024

Take this guy if you fit into the following categories: Completed physics 1 and 2 and high school In the honors college He will teach the really simple material at an in-depth level, and usually finishes lectures early, leaving time for inspirational and motivational talks about life. If you do not fit into these categories, avoid at all costs.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Caring
4.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: B-
Jan 19, 2024
Would take again

Carswell is a teacher that you either will love or hate with a passion. He teaches straight-forward, and WILL NOT sugarcoat anything he says. His teaching style is extremely laid back, and will try to connect with his class and makes sure its not just him speaking the entire time. You can learn a lot from him, you just have to overlook his "flaws."

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: B+
Jan 23, 2024
Would take again

Professor Carswell is a mixed bag. I could have gotten an A if I remembered to turn in certain HW assignments, so I'm not going to claim his class is super difficult, as long as you go to the lectures and do some study work outside of class. He has a tendency to go on tangents which were entertaining. If you don't like humor, this isn't for you.

Tough grader
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
ENGR123
Grade: B
Feb 14, 2024

Took 30 points for a mis-formatted assignment and took 30 points off for it. Everything was correct just the mis-format and wouldn't let me resubmit. As well as lectures while entertaining aren't taught well and expects you to know a lot of the material before taking the class.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
EN103
Grade: C+
Mar 21, 2024
Would take again

He goes back to ensure students understand before moving on

3.0
4.0
ENGR103
Grade: C-
May 2, 2024
Would take again

I know lots of kids that drop pretty quickly but it gets easier, and he warmed up to my class a lot towards the end. It's a fair class and while Carswell can be harsh, he definitely is a good motivator. I did not like him at the beginning, but the last few weeks of class were fun, and he cut up with us a lot. Just make sure to come to class.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Hilarious
3.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Jul 22, 2024

Good teacher, but he's tough on you. Make sure to do your prep before class, he'll utilize that information. Show up every day, do your work, and answer questions CORRECTLY in class, and you won't have a problem with him. Seems like a jerk for the first bit of the semester, but he'll warm up eventually.

Participation matters
5.0
1.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Sep 22, 2024
Would take again

Best professor I have had! Carswell knows how to keep students engaged while teaching. He is very approachable and will assist you in every way he can.

Group projects
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
2.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2024

One of the best lecturers for this course, explained concepts well and thoroughly, and wanted every student to have true mastery of the required topics. Often mean.

Amazing lectures
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Dec 19, 2024
Would take again

Micael Carswell is a great professor. Be wary of answering questions incorrectly during class but also have fun. Carswell is super funny and likes to talk to students during class, and sometimes he goes on tangents. One day all he did was yap about Elden Ring. Overall, he really wants students to master the material and expects the best from them.

Hilarious
2.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: B
Jan 13, 2025
Would take again

Sometimes he would waste time going on tangents for half of a lecture, but usually he did a decent job at covering topics. Make sure to show up to class, he takes attendance every day and if you turn in homework a second after class starts, you will get a 0 on the assignment. He occasionally makes exceptions but it seems to depend on his mood.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: B+
Jan 22, 2025
Would take again

Professor Carswell's class has its quirks, but if you engage with his teaching style, it can be an enjoyable experience. The material isn't too difficult, just make sure to study, participate in class, and try out tools like unstuck study for extra support.

5.0
4.0
ENGR123
Grade: F
Jan 29, 2025
Would take again

I failed this class, but there is no doubt that Carswell is a phenomenal professor and an incredibly caring instructor/individual overall. I deserved the F due to my lack of studying and knowledge of calculus. However, Michael is an amazing professor and absolutely hilarious. He deeply cares about his students and only wants them to succeed.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Mar 3, 2025
Would take again

Mr. Carswell is very knowledgeable, and he challenges students to have a true understanding of the material, not just memorization. He responds quickly to emails and is always willing to help students outside of class. He can sometimes appear rude during lectures, but if you talk with him outside of class he is very helpful and a cool guy.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Apr 2, 2025
Would take again

Gives some homework but clearly defines the relationships needed for the class and how the problems should be tackled. He'll never give you the answer but encourages you to learn the process not the result.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
ENGR123
Grade: A+
Apr 17, 2025
Would take again

Insists that you attend lectures, banters with students regularly but his sense of humor might not be for everyone. Asks questions in class that require understanding and are sometimes intentionally misleading to throw off students. Overall tests are light and I left the class with a good understanding of the material.

Group projects
Gives good feedback
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
ENGR123
Grade: B+
May 1, 2025
Would take again

I enjoyed having Carswell as my professor. He picks on students, but it makes it honestly makes the class fun. One of the only classes that I regularly attended. I also felt that he prepared us better than most for test 3, as he creates the exam. Seriously contemplated switching to electrical engineering for the chance of having Carswell again.

Participation matters
Group projects
Caring
4.0
5.0
103
Grade: B+
May 5, 2025

He's a kind, funny guy who clearly has knowledge of what he is teaching because he has been doing it for so long. However He doesn't really help you when you ask for help, he's very vague and will just tell you to reference the lecture slides.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
ENGR103
Grade: C+
Jun 9, 2025

I'm very mixed on Carswell overall. First, I really disliked the slides he used for the lectures. Many of them missed the work on how to solve certain problems, and the organization of them could be off. Also, I get he's joking most the time, but I'd rather not be ridiculed for asking basic questions, it can be pretty embarrassing. He's manageable.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
ENGR104
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2025

He doesn't prepare for lectures well, is quite bad at explaining, and is rude when people ask for further clarification or have other questions. The class is so easy, but he makes it harder than it needs to be, so I gave him a 3 difficulty. If you know high school physics and math you can get a solid grade without paying attention to him at all.

1.0
2.0
ENGR101
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2025

Professor Carswell's class was fairly easy. However, he is extremely rude to all of his students. Several times in class he said that he did "not care about us", "would not help us when asked for help," and that he "did not want to teach this class." If you miss one assignment, you are essentially screwed, and he will not help you.

Participation matters
1.0
3.0
ENGR104
Grade: B+
Dec 19, 2025

He sucks. Straight up, take any other professor for 104, he just doesn't know how to teach and isn't there for anything more than the benefits of being a professor, he doesn't teach well, and then it comes around to tests that are not clear on the instructions when you weren't taught any of the info beyond a surface level.

Tough grader
Test heavy
1.0
2.0
ENGR104
Grade: A-
Dec 24, 2025

He's rude, he'll make fun of you for asking questions, he'll call you out in front of everyone for being a few mins late.

Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

71%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 85 grades
Most common grades:
A (17)
A+ (15)
B (12)
Grade Distribution
A(32)B(17)C(16)D(6)F(1)A-/B+(18)
Based on 97 reported grades
A: 17
A+: 15
B: 12
B+: 10
Common Tags
Test heavy (25)
Skip class? You won't pass. (24)
Hilarious (21)
Tough grader (20)
Participation matters (17)
Lecture heavy (15)
Clear grading criteria (11)
Graded by few things (8)
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Ratings by Course

ECE320

4.4

(7)

ECE383

4.0

(1)

EN103

4.0

(2)

ENGR123

3.8

(33)

ENGR103

3.2

(63)
+5 more courses
Difficulty by Course

103

4.5

ENGR103005

4.0

ENGR103

3.9

ENG131

3.7

EN103

3.5

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