The Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of North Dakota is committed to graduating mechanical engineers who will:

• Successfully practice mechanical engineering in the areas of mechanical design, thermal systems, and manufacturing and materials in industry and government settings;
• Practice mechanical engineering across a broad range of job functions from detailed design to laboratory experimentation to engineering management;
• Practice engineering alone or as part of a larger team, demonstrating the appropriate teamwork, leadership and communication skills for each professional situation;
• Apply the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct, understanding the broader implications of their engineering efforts on local, national and global society;
• Maintain relevant knowledge of contemporary engineering and professional issues and an understanding of modern engineering tools through regular participation in professional development activities.

Continuous assessment of student learning in accordance with specific program outcomes, including input from program constituents such as students, alumni, employers and industry advisory groups, provides opportunity to measure success in meeting the mission of the department. Beginning with the freshman year, teamwork, problem solving, and design exercises are interwoven throughout the curriculum, culminating in a two-semester capstone design project during the senior year. Several courses include laboratories which develop experimental, teamwork, and communication skills.