Major code BS7257

Ohio University’s Mechanical Engineering major program has four educational objectives:

1. Prepare graduates for engineering careers and advanced education
2. Graduate mechanical engineers with technical skills
   • including a grasp of engineering knowledge, a proficiency in learning, using and undertanding technology, and an ability to apply knowledge to solve contemporary engineering problems
3. Graduate mechanical engineers with skills to perform in the work environment
   • including technical communication, teamwork, decision making, project management, an appreciation of engineering integration with business and the importance of safety and health considerations, and the ability for self evaluation leading to improvement. 
4. Graduate mechanical engineers who are informed and aware of contemporary issues and the impact of engineering on society.

These objectives are consistent with and embrace ABET Program Outcomes.

Mechanical engineering is an extremely diverse profession that is concerned with (1) the economical and ecological conversion of energy from natural sources to provide power, heating, cooling, and propulsion; (2) the design of all types of machines, engines, and vehicles; (3) the processing of materials into useful products; and (4) the development of systems for using machines and resources. Professional activities include research, development, design, testing, production, operation and maintenance, marketing and sales, technical management, and administration.

The mechanical engineering curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in higher mathematics, physics, and chemistry, followed by extensive instruction in all of the classical mechanical engineering disciplines. The curriculum contains a significant amount of design content, wherein students are required to apply their engineering skills to solve real and meaningful problems. The principal objectives of the design experience are: (1) to allow students to use their creativity in formulating alternative engineering solutions; 2) to develop an ability to work independently and in teams, which is an important skill for continued growth as a practicing engineer; 3) to bridge the gap between the acquisition of engineering knowledge in required courses and the application of that knowledge to solve engineering problems. The objectives of the design experience are consistent with the Department’s overall objective of producing highly competent engineers with an ability to define and solve real engineering problems.

The design experience begins in the freshman year (ME 101), wherein students are introduced to elements of engineering design. This often involves the design and construction of a device to perform a specified task. Throughout the sophomore, junior, and senior years, mechanical engineering students are required to solve design problems in many of the required engineering courses and across the spectrum of disciplines encompassed by the mechanical engineering profession. Senior mechanical engineering students are challenged in a sequence of three formal design courses (ME 470, 471, 472) involving a capstone senior design project, which requires the construction and testing of a working product prototype. The capstone project requires application of mechanical engineering fundamentals, engineering materials, engineering economy, and social issues, such as product safety and reliability. Students are required to submit written technical reports, as well as give oral presentations describing project results. This is in accord with the Department’s objective of producing engineers who have good communication skills, as well as excellent technical skills. The design experience is enhanced by providing students with technologically modern lab facilities and computational tools.

In addition to engineering courses, the Department requires significant studies in the humanities and social sciences to establish a breadth and depth of awareness and education. The humanity and social science requirements are consistent with the Department’s objective of graduating individuals with a well-rounded education.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering prides itself on offering students a close working relationship with the faculty. Mechanical engineering faculty members are required to set aside office hours to assist students with class assignments. In addition, each student who enters the program is assigned one of the mechanical engineering faculty members as an academic advisor who will meet quarterly with the student to assist in course scheduling.

If you are majoring in mechanical engineering as preparation for entry into another profession, such as law, medicine, business, etc., consult with the department chair regarding modifying your schedule to meet specific career objectives.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a co-op program that allows you to acquire practical experience and income by working in industry after completing your freshman year. Sophomore and junior courses are scheduled to accommodate a work-academics plan, based on alternate periods of study and work. Consult the co-op office if you are interested.

An honors program for students with 90 or more hours and in the top 20% of their class provides the opportunity to receive graduate credit for coursework throughout your senior year. Contact the department office for further information.

The Paul H. and Irene C. Black Memorial Fund provides a large number of generous scholarships for seniors majoring in mechanical engineering. A good academic record and participation in departmental activities are key considerations in awarding the scholarship. Contact the department office for additional information.