Mission, Educational Objectives, Outcomes

About Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineers apply the principles of mechanics and energy to the design of machines and devices. They must be able to control mechanical systems and usually work with other professionals in designing these systems. Automobiles, engines, heating and air-conditioning system, gas and steam turbines, air and space vehicles, trains, ships, servomechanisms, transmission mechanisms, machine tools, material handling systems, elevators and escalators, and robots used in industry are a few of the systems and devices requiring mechanical engineering knowledge.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers dynamic educational programs and a faculty poised to deliver quality engineering education. The department also offers studies leading to the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Master of Engineering and the Ph.D. The Master of Engineering and Ph.D. programs also include interdisciplinary degrees in Atmospheric Sciences and Materials Sciences.

"The mission of the department is to provide mechanical engineering majors a high-quality engineering education and contribute new knowledge through research in mechanical engineering and allied disciplines. In addition, the department seeks to maintain recognition through scholarly work and service to the college, the university and the external community."

Educational Objectives

  • Graduates will have careers in mechanical engineering related fields and professions.
  • Graduates will continue career planning and engage in professional development through continuing education including: workshops, obtaining professional registration and certificates, participating in conference activities, and graduate studies.
  • Graduates will use their analytical, teamwork, leadership and communication skills to effectively participate in the development of products and finding solutions [to problems] sought by local and/or the global community.

Undergraduate Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering Program have:

  • an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
  • an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
  • an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs
  • an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams
  • an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
  • an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
  • an ability to communicate effectively
  • the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context
  • a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
  • a knowledge of contemporary issues
  • an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice
  • an understanding of issues related to minorities and gender diversity, society and culture, and a historical awareness of Africa and its Diaspora
  • a knowledge of chemistry and calculus-based physics with depth in at least one
  • the ability to apply advanced mathematics through multivariate calculus and differential equations
  • a familiarity with statistics and linear algebra
  • the ability to work professionally in both thermal and mechanical systems areas including the design and realization of such systems

 

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