Experience in design is integrated throughout the required courses in the curriculum and culminates in the capstone design sequence. The capstone design experience integrates earlier technical work with economic, safety and environmental considerations. The projects are primarily obtained from industrial or private business clients. The presentations of project results are made to a review panel consisting of members of the faculty, the MAE Industrial Advisory Council and representatives of the client firms.

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering prepares students for productive careers in mechanical engineering related disciplines. The program focuses on instruction in the thermal and mechanical systems areas as defined by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). To support that mission, the Department has been divided into the focus areas of Design and Manufacturing, Dynamics and Controls, Materials, and Thermal and Fluid Sciences.