This program of study leads to a degree in Mechanical Engineering accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) and it is intended for students who wish to be recognized as professional Mechanical Engineers. Normally, students enter this program after successful completion of the first year program common to all engineering students. While this program has been made as flexible as possible to accommodate various post-BSME career objectives, all students are advised to discuss departures from the recommended course sequences in detail with their advisor before altering their program of study.

Program Overview

Detailed descriptions of the BSME Degree Program as well as tracking forms appropriate for the various classes will be available for download as well as for viewing on the web. Since the BSME program is being modified, please be sure you are using the correct tracking form for your class. The following paragraphs provide an overview of the three years of the program after the student declares a BSME as well as some of elective options that exist within the program.

SOPHOMORE YEAR - The sophomore program emphasizes concepts and techniques which define the core of engineering analysis. Topics include mechanics, electrical circuits, strength of materials, thermodynamics as well as an introduction to experimentation and fabrication. The second year curriculum continues to expand students' mathematics and science background as well as offers opportunities to explore interests in the humanities and social sciences.

JUNIOR YEAR - The third year program both completes the foundation essential to modern Mechanical Engineering and also provides the first opportunities for specialization and depth. These include concentration courses such as dynamics and vibration, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and materials, as well as machine design. Laboratory experiences are an important part of the junior year program as well as an introduction to project work and open-ended problem solving techniques. Engineering Foundation and Mathematics/Science elective courses taken in the third year help the student customize their program. Also, students who have already fulfilled junior year requirements due to an accelerated program or advanced placement might consider taking advanced level courses (e.g. ES 101, ME 11, ME 38, ME 65, ME 80 or ME 150).

SENIOR YEAR - The senior year curriculum is structured to encourage students to acquire some degree of specialization and introductory professional design experience. Examples include concentration in applied mechanics, materials and manufacturing processes, system control and design, or thermal-fluid sciences. Elective courses fall within several groups: concentration electives, senior design project elective, math/science electives, humanities/social science electives and free electives. Students are encouraged to consider independent project work as part of a coordinated program of study. Students who want to pursue a project for more than a single semester are expected to do so by undertaking writing an undergraduate thesis.