The Department of Mechanical Engineering in cooperation with the Department of Polymer Engineering has developed an undergraduate program which integrates mechanical engineering science and design with polymer processing science and technology. This program was created to meet the needs of undergraduate students who desire this interdisciplinary program of study.

The BSMPE curriculum offers students a large array of representative engineering science and design courses which, combined with polymer engineering courses, provides a fundamental education in Mechanical Engineering, as well as an understanding of Polymer Engineering principles. This knowledge allows the student to explore state-of-the-art technologies requiring comprehension of foundation principles in both disciplines.

The general education, mathematics and science requirements for the BSMPE degree are the same as for the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) degree. The specific required courses in Mechanical Engineering (4600:XXX) and Polymer Engineering (4700:XXX), as well as the required courses in Civil Engineering (4300:XXX), Electrical Engineering (4400:XXX) and Polymer Science (4700:XXX) total 139 semester hours.

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Polymer Engineering (BSMPE) degree program has been evaluated and accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) in September 2003.

BSMPE Guidebook

Download a comprehensive guide to the BSMPE Program

Mechanical-Polymer Engineering Curriculum

Co-Op Students

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 Polymer 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, materials and mechanical systems; know how to analyze and interpret results.
3. Design thermal, fluid, mechanical, materials 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, materials and mechanical problems by applying first principles, including open-ended problems.
6. Develop practical solutions for mechanical-polymer 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-Polymer Engineering, ABET Undergraduate Educational Objectives

1. Practice the mechanical-polymer engineering discipline successfully within community accepted standards.
2. Acquire teamwork and communications skills to develop a successful career in mechanical-polymer engineering.
3. Fulfill professional and ethical responsibilities in the practice of mechanical-polymer 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.