Mechanical Engineering

Program Overview

Mechanical Engineering

Overview

Mechanical engineering is one of the most flexible—and practical—degrees. It's for people who want to know how different types of machines, engines, and systems work so they can make them better. Whether you want to design self-driving cars, improve wind turbines, build life-saving robots—or find other ways to change the world by solving problems—this program is for you.

What will I learn?

For the first few years, you'll take a lot of math and science courses and labs, including chemistry, physics, and calculus (through differential equations). Then, in later years, you’ll learn how to apply these skills in classes about mechanics, materials, heat transfer, manufacturing processes, and related topics. You’ll also have some flexibility to choose electives, take courses in business and communications, and even specialize in an area such as bioengineering, dynamics, or fluid sciences.

What can I do outside of class?

• Internships, co-ops, and experiential learning. From calibrating fuel injectors to making 3D models to improve heart attack care, UB students get real-world experience and compete in on-campus events like engineering intramurals.
• Student groups. Meet new friends and network with professionals through dozens of engineering clubs.
• Research. Undergraduates have worked on a smartwatch for stroke patients, a 3D printer that supports artificial intelligence, and much more, and have also presented at national conferences.
• Study abroad. If you’re looking for a life-changing experience and international perspective, consider going abroad; UB engineering students have traveled to Australia, Costa Rica, France, and many other countries during summer and winter breaks.

What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree?

UB grads make a difference. They've worked as VP of engineering for a robotics company, engine development engineer for Toyota Racing Development USA, product development engineer at Fisher-Price, CEO of a turbine-generator company … and the list goes on and on.

A mechanical engineering degree gives you opportunities to design, build, and test machines and devices in a variety of industries, including:

• Energy
  • Power generation
  • Power transmission
  • Wind turbines and other renewable energy
• Automotive
  • Aerodynamics of automobiles
  • Autonomous vehicles
  • Suspension systems
• Health care and medical devices
  • Pacemakers
  • Prosthetics
  • Surgical control systems
• Manufacturing
  • Engines and engine parts
  • HVAC systems
• Industrial equipment
  • Robotic systems
  • Sensors

Some graduates also use their mechanical engineering background for a career in business, law, or other fields.

Who will I learn from?

"Professors encourage thoughtful questions in class and are always looking for students to work on groundbreaking research projects with them."

As our students will tell you, our faculty members are exceptional teachers. They've won many awards, including the student-nominated Milton Plesur Excellence in Teaching Award, the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the President Emeritus and Mrs. Meyerson Award for Distinguished Undergraduate Teaching and Mentoring.

In addition, they are nationally and internationally known for their research and scholarship in many areas of mechanical engineering. They have been named as Fellows of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASM International, and the American Society of Thermal and Fluids Engineers (ASTFE)—and have also been recognized by the Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, and other leading organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview: (Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Academic Program)

Overview:

• Mechanical engineering is a flexible and practical degree that empowers students to understand, design, and improve machines, engines, and various systems.
• This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address real-world challenges and contribute to advancements in various fields.
• The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, experiential opportunities, and research exposure to foster innovation and problem-solving skills.

Objectives:

• To provide a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and engineering principles.
• To equip students with the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications.
• To develop effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• To prepare graduates for successful careers in a diverse range of industries.

Description:

• The program starts with a focus on core math and science courses, including chemistry, physics, and calculus.
• Subsequent years delve deeper into mechanical engineering principles, covering areas like mechanics, materials, heat transfer, and manufacturing processes.
• Students have the flexibility to select electives, explore business and communication courses, and even specialize in areas like bioengineering, dynamics, or fluid sciences.

Outline: (Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate BS)

Program Content:

• The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive range of courses, including:
• Mathematics: Calculus I, II, III, Differential Equations
• Science: Chemistry, Physics I & II
• Engineering Fundamentals: Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics
• Design & Manufacturing: Engineering Design, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Manufacturing Processes
• Other relevant courses in specific areas of mechanical engineering, electives, and humanities.

Program Structure:

• The program typically spans eight semesters (four academic years).
• Semesters usually consist of 15-18 credit hours of coursework, depending on individual course selections.
• The curriculum progresses from foundational courses to more advanced and specialized topics in later semesters.

Individual Modules:

• The specific modules are not explicitly mentioned in the provided context.
However, it does mention that the program covers various areas such as:
• Mechanics: Statics, Dynamics, Mechanics of Materials, etc.
• Thermodynamics: Understanding energy transfer and conversion.
• Fluid Mechanics: Analyzing the behavior of fluids.
• Design & Manufacturing: Product design, material selection, and manufacturing processes.
• Heat Transfer: Studying heat exchange and its applications.
• Control Systems: Designing and analyzing systems that automate processes.

Module Descriptions:

• Unfortunately, the context does not offer detailed descriptions for individual modules.
• The provided context does not contain specific details regarding the assessment methods and criteria used in the program.
• The text does not provide information about the teaching methods, faculty, or any unique pedagogical approaches employed in the program.
• While the text mentions that graduates find success in various industries, it does not elaborate on specific career paths, opportunities, or expected outcomes associated with the program.
• The excerpt does not contain additional relevant information beyond the already categorized sections.