You are in the official 2008-2009 General Catalog
for California State University, Fresno.
Mechanical Engineering
College of Engineering
WALTER V. LOSCUTOFF, Chair
Engineering East Building, Room 154
559.278.2368
http://www.engr.csufresno.edu
Program Description
Mechanical engineering is the use of basic science in the design and
manufacture of components and systems. This requires the application of
physical and mechanical principles in the development of machines, energy
conversion systems, materials, and equipment for measurement and control.
Knowledge of mathematics, physics, and chemistry lies at the core of this
field. Application of this knowledge uses engineering technology -- a disciplined
way of thinking, modeling, and testing that enables development of new systems
despite incomplete information and uncertainty.
The program in mechanical engineering provides basics in design and in thermal
and fluid mechanics. All areas include statics, dynamics, materials, fluid
mechanics, thermodynamics, and experimental methods. Application areas in
design include mechanics of materials, applied mechanics, structural and
manufacturing aspects of producing equipment, and vibrations. Application
areas in thermal and fluid mechanics focus on energy conversion and include
combustion, heat engines, refrigeration, and fluid flow.
Students should consult with their advisers to select the proper courses
that emphasize their areas of interest.
Engineer-in-Training and Professional Engineering registration is strongly
recommended as a first step in professional lifelong learning.
Mission
Our mission is to provide an educational program that will allow our students to meet or exceed the necessary level of academic preparedness for successful professional employment and for graduate study through continuous improvement in curricula and instruction.
Educational Objectives
- Provide broad-based curriculum in mechanical engineering fundamentals.
- Provide a basis for successful professional careers in fields associated with mechanical engineering.
- Provide students with a strong foundation for graduate studies in mechanical engineering and related fields.
- Provide students with hands-on experience through projects and laboratory courses.
- Develop students' understanding of global issues.
- Promote understanding of ethical and professional responsibilities.
- Develop students' abilities to communicate effectively both orally and in written form.
- Promote ability to work effectively in teams.
Co-op Program
The department participates in the Cooperative Education Program which allows the student to gain industrial experience and financial benefits through projects with local companies and aerospace companies in Antelope Valley.
Career Opportunities
The creation, design, and improvement of products, processes, and systems that are mechanical in nature are the core of many industries. Solutions to such major problems as environmental pollution, lack of mass transportation, and need for new sources of energy will depend heavily on the ability to create new types of machines and mechanical systems. And full use of developments in emerging fields, such as nanotechnology and bioengineering, require mechanical systems. These needs have created a substantial demand for mechanical engineers in a broad range of fields. Excellent career opportunities for mechanical engineers exist in aerospace, biomedical, computer, electronics, energy, environmental, manufacturing and fabrication, machine and tool design, transportation, and a host of other industries.
Mechanical Engineering Courses