Program

Degrees Offered

• BS Degree in Mechanical Engineering (ABET Accredited)
• MS Degree in Engineering with an Option in Mechanical Engineering

See the current catalog for course descriptions and degree requirements.

Program Overview

The Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) offers programs of study that lead to Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering, ME Option, degrees.  Mechanical Engineering is the discipline that focuses on design of many types of machinery and equipment used in transportation, manufacturing, air and space transportation; consumer products; robots; biomedical devices; and energy conversion systems.  Mechanical engineers use thermodynamics, heat transfer, dynamics, thermal and fluid mechanics, design software, engineering materials, and the principles of mathematics and science to develop solutions to problems.  Students can achieve a level of specialization through elective courses in machine design or thermal systems.  A major goal of the program is to provide its graduates the analytical and practical skills needed to perform mechanical design in a variety of fields.  

The Department participates in an Industry sponsored Cooperative Education Program - Valley Industries Partnership for Co-op Education (VIP) - that allows our students to gain industrial experience and financial benefits, while in College, by working for companies affiliated with the VIP program. The department also encourages the graduates to complete Engineer in Training (EIT) exam, the first step towards PE license.

The employers of Mechanical Engineering include machinery and equipment companies, automobile and aircraft firms, gas and electric utilities, architectural and engineering firms, and many agencies in federal, state and local governments.  The program also prepares the graduates very well for continuing their education by completing advanced degrees in engineering or management.

Program Objectives

The mission of the Mechanical Engineering program is achieved by student learning outcomes that prepare the graduates to be able to:

1. Apply skills and understanding of engineering sciences with a foundation in mathematics, chemistry and physics necessary for engineering practice.

2. Design and develop compenents, systems and products that meet specific requirements and use resources prudently in solving complex problems encountered in professional practice. 

3.  Develop, test, evaluate, and execute engineering solutions to problems and projects that are practical and of a complexity encountered in professional practice. 

4.  Design and conduct experiments; analyze results.

5.  Communicate and perform effectively as engineering professionals in both individual and team-based project environments, providing leadership as necessary.

6.  Practice professional and ethical responsibilities, including understanding of the societal impact of engineering solutions. 

7.  Recognize and understand contemporary issues and the role of professionals in global society.

8.  Develop intellectually and technically through continued learning. 

Program Educational Outcomes

The following list of educational outcomes was chosen by the ME faculty to describe what the students are expected to know or be able to do at time fo graduation from the program:

1.  Apply fundamental concepts of mathematics to problems in engineering applications

2.  Apply fundamental concepts of science to solve problems in engineering applications

3.  Apply analytical skills to solve engineering problems

4.  Conduct experiments, analyze data, and present results

5.  Apply the knowledge gained to design a component or a system that meets the specific criteria

6.  Work on multi-disciplinary group projects to enhance interpersonal and leadership skills

7.  Understand the importance of ethical and professional responsibility

8.  Make an effective oral presentation of ideas on engineering design solutions

9.  Prepare and present technical information effectively in a report/ document form

10.  Communicate with others effectively in a team/group setting
11. Incorporate economic, environmental, and safety consideration in a design process
12. Conduct independent research for information required in engineering problem solving
13.  Be aware of the need for information required in engineering problem solving
14. Understand the need for life-long learning experience via advanced studies
15. Gain an understanding of global issues related to engineering