The mechanical engineering program is designed not only to teach the background theory of engineering but also the application of these principles.  As a pre-major you will begin your studies with math, chemistry, physics, and the Fundaments of Engineering sequence.  Once these background courses are completed, you will be eligible to apply to the major.  

View the current mechanical engineering course curriculum.

Once admitted to the major you will study:

Engineering Mechanics – the study of the effects of external forces on stationary and moving objects, and on materials

Thermodynamics – the study of the development of motion (work) from heat

Fluid Mechanics – the study of external forces on stationary and moving fluids

Heat Transfer – the study of the flow of heat from warm objects to cool objects, and how to control this transfer of energy

Machine Element Design – the study of the pieces and parts that make up machines, and how to design them to meet required specifications

Kinematics – the study of how objects move

Manufacturing Engineering – the study of manufacturing processes

Electrical Circuits and Controls – the study of electrical circuits and controls

Measurements and Controls – how to take measurements, and how to control motions based on these measurements

Design – how to incorporate all of the above into the design of a product or a measurement system.

In your final year you will participate in a senior design capstone course sequence during which you will complete projects in both product and measurement system design.  You will also take technical elective courses.  These elective courses are grouped into concentrations.  Concentrations give you a chance to focus in on one area of mechanical engineering.  You can choose to take elective courses exclusively in your concentration, or choose a few outside your concentration to maintain a slightly broader background – it is your choice.