The curriculum provides a thorough and well-rounded foundation in basic science, mathematics, engineering science, and general education to prepare the graduate for a professional engineering career. The curriculum is also excellent preparation for graduate school. The program is strong in providing a background in design, solid and fluid mechanics, systems engineering, and the thermal sciences, including energy and energy transfer. Computer applications are stressed throughout the curriculum. All undergraduates are invited and encouraged to join the student section of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, which sponsors industrial plant visits, special lectures, and other activities. Students may also join chapters of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the Society for Experimental Mechanics (SEM).The work in the first two years consists of basic courses in science (math, physics, chemistry), applied science (mechanics, electricity and magnetism, basic computer literacy and computer-aided problem solving), manufacturing processes, and general education requirements (humanities, social sciences, English communication). Two introductory engineering courses are included in the freshman year.The junior year concentrates on fundamental mechanical engineering courses (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, systems engineering, engineering analysis, heat transfer), materials sciences, and design of machines. Further general education studies are also covered.The senior year includes the capstone design sequence, mechanical engineering experimentation, and a wide variety of professional electives such as mechanical control systems, advanced fluid mechanics, advanced mechanics of materials, mechatronics, internal combustion engines, applied energy conversion, tribology, product design for manufacture, air conditioning, heating and ventilation, vibrations, finite element method, and experimental stress analysis. The program also includes two laboratory courses in the junior and senior years.Computer techniques are integrated throughout the curriculum. Computational facilities including PCs and workstations are available in the College of Engineering’s Engineering Computer Center (ECC) and the University’s Office of Information Technology Services (ITS). The department’s computer classrooms provide state-of-the-art hardware and software for simulation, design, and product development.