The major focus of the undergraduate curriculum is on machine and energy technology, but a combination of courses in engineering, social sciences, and the humanities builds educational foundations for varied responsibilities in our technical society. Our students learn to apply fundamental principles of math, physics and chemistry to the design of mechanical components and systems through classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory work, and design projects.
We emphasize student engagement and active learning throughout the curriculum. Students work on numerous projects inside and outside the classroom to sharpen their technical skills and develop communication skills and leadership. These design experiences also help students:
- Become aware of the technical challenges facing our society and their ability and responsibility to help solve them
- Use their creativity in formulating alternative engineering solutions
- Apply their knowledge and skills to design products and solve technical problems
- Develop an ability to work independently and in teams
The capstone design experience is a year-long senior project that helps students develop professional skills and make the transition from being students to being engineers mindfully engaged in a lifelong developmental journey. Examples of capstone design projects include energy-appropriate personal campus transporters, powered shopping carts, automatic jacking systems, and remote location firefighting systems.
