What it’s about:
Mechanical engineering deals with the forces and energy at work in thermal and mechanical (solid and fluid) systems. You learn the engineering principles underlying the generation, transmission, and utilization of these energies, and the design, production, and application of mechanical devices and systems.
What the study of this major is like:
In mechanical engineering, you focus on mechanics (fluids and solids) and heat as forms of energy. You learn about the forces and motions that affect mechanical performance. Before you build a device, you use math to determine what the machine will do. You learn to model-to visualize a piece of equipment and to convey to others what it would do. And you learn what’s involved in manufacturing the machinery you design-for example, a vehicle, an acoustic system, an engine.
All engineering disciplines start out the same way: with courses in math (calculus through differential equations) and numerical analysis; natural science (chemistry, physics, and perhaps biology or materials science); humanities and social science; and basic engineering science. In your second year, you will be introduced to mechanical engineering, in courses that include the design of thermal and mechanical systems. Training in engineering design, which is now largely computer-based, involves modeling, simulation, analysis, and synthesis.
Programs generally emphasize theory and analysis as well as design, with appropriate supporting labs and project work in such areas as these:
Engineeringmechanics.Static and dynamic forces within and on structures; equivalent force systems; dynamics; stresses and strains; and strength of materials.
Materials.Properties of materials; physical metallurgy; and metallic and other materials including polymers, ceramics, and composites.
Electrical systems. Electrical circuits; direct and alternating current; electrical machinery; digital and analog electronic devices; circuits; and control systems.
Thermal systems.Fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; combustion; refrigeration; heat transfer; energy systems; and internal combustion engines.
Mechanical systems. Kinematics and mechanisms; modeling of multicomponent systems; control of mechanical systems; vibrations; component design and analysis; machine design; and dynamics of machinery.
Manufacturing systems.Modern manufacturing systems; robotics; computer-aided manufacturing systems; artificial intelligence; and computers integrated in manufacturing.
Specialty course work or technical electives typically include in-depth study of acoustics and noise control; advanced control system design; applied solar energy; automotive engineering; biomechanics and biomedical engineering; biotechnology; computer-aided design; composite materials; direct energy conversion; energy conservation; energy system analysis; environmental control systems; gas dynamics; heating ventilating, and air conditioning; non-destructive testing; numerical modelling and simulation; packaging engineering; propulsion systems; polymer processing; robotics; and turbo machinery.
Because computers are used in the solution of many engineering problems, the major includes a great deal of programming and numerical analysis.
May colleges offer cooperative education programs, which provide opportunities for full-time employment during alternating academic terms. Such programs are generally available after you have completed the basic engineering course work.
Career options and trends:
Consulting engineer; industrial engineer; plastics fabrication engineer; safety engineer; test engineer; automotive engineer; manufacturing engineer; design engineer; research and development engineer.
Mechanical engineers are engaged in a wide range of careers in industry, business, government, and universities. They interact with people and machines in research, design, development, testing, manufacturing, operations, marketing, sales, and management. Continued demand for graduates trained in mechanical engineering is projected for the near future, especially in industries fostering emerging technologies.
Source: CollegeBoard 2012 Book of Majors
Pursuing a post-graduate degree abroad can be an exciting and rewarding exper...
Networking is a vital aspect of life and career development, and studying abr...