The undergraduate mechanical engineering program is designed to provide the student with comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental principles of all aspects relating to fluid-thermal and mechanical sciences and the application of these principles to pertinent problems. A large number of corporations and industries throughout the country participate in the department's five-year cooperative education program. This program gives students on-the-job experience in an industry directly related to their studies.

The undergraduate curriculum can be divided into four main areas: general studies requirements (29 semester credits), mathematics and science requirements (30 credits), engineering requirements (66 credits), and electives (12 credits). In addition to the regular program, students also may choose a program with special emphasis in polymer science and polymer engineering or motion and control. In this option, all mechanical engineering electives are replaced by appropriate electives in polymer science and polymer engineering or motion and control. Students also may use technical and free electives for this option.

BSME Guidebook

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Mechanical Engineering Curriculum

Co-Op Students

ME Electives must include 3 credits Mechanical Engineering design elective, 3 credits technical elective, and 3 credits Mechanical Engineering technical elective. This course schedule is in effect for those students entering The University of Akron in the Fall 2005 or later, who are co-op students who expect to graduate in May 2010 or later. It may also be in effect for students who have entered The University prior to Fall 2005 but have fallen behind in their course schedule. The appropriate course schedule will be handled on an individual basis.

BS in Mechanical Engineering, ABET Program Outcomes

1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering in a logical and discerning manner.
2. Design and perform laboratory experiments for thermal, fluid and mechanical systems; know how to analyze and interpret results.
3. Design thermal, fluid, mechanical and control systems to meet specifications within environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability and sustainability constraints.
4. Participate effectively in teams involving several disciplines.
5. Identify, formulate, and solve thermal, fluid and mechanical problems by applying first principles, including open-ended problems.
6. Develop practical solutions for mechanical engineering problems under professional and ethical constraints.
7. Communicate effectively with written, oral, and visual means in a technical setting.
8. Understand the impact of engineering in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context.
9. Be prepared for a lifetime of continuing education.
10. Know about contemporary issues in engineering.
11. Have an ability to use modern modeling and simulation techniques, and computing tools.

Mechanical Engineering, ABET Undergraduate Educational Objectives

1. Practice the mechanical engineering discipline successfully within community accepted standards.
2. Acquire teamwork and communications skills to develop a successful career in mechanical engineering.
3. Fulfill professional and ethical responsibilities in the practice of mechanical engineering, including social, environmental and economical considerations.
4. Engage in professional service, such as participation in professional society and community service.
5. Engage in life-long learning activities, such as graduate studies or professional workshops.
6. Develop a professional career in the prevailing market that meets personal goals, objectives and desires.