Program Overview

Introduction to Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineering program is a three-year, full-time undergraduate degree that focuses on the design, development, and application of mechanical systems. The program is taught in English and is a collaboration between the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and the Universiteit Twente.

Program Structure

The program consists of six semesters, with each semester focusing on a specific aspect of mechanical engineering. The semesters are divided into two main blocks: the first four semesters focus on the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, while the last two semesters focus on specialization and research.

First Semester: Design of Structures & Machines

The first semester introduces students to the basics of mechanical engineering, including mechanics, materials science, and product technology. Students work on a project to design and build a functioning machine, which is then tested in a mechanical competition.

• Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
• Mathematics: Linear Algebra & Calculus 1
• Statics
• Mechanics of Materials
• Manufacturing
• Materials Science: Metals & Alloys
• Continuous Assessment 1
• Project & Academic Skills 1: Design of Structures & Machines

Second Semester: Energy Transition & Sustainability

The second semester focuses on energy systems, including the analysis and design of energy systems, and the role of mechanical engineers in solving complex energy-related problems. Students work on a project to analyze the energy consumption of their own homes and develop sustainable energy solutions.

• Mathematics: Linear Algebra & Calculus 2
• Engineering Thermodynamics
• Renewable Energy Technology
• Lift Cycle Analysis
• Design Engineering
• Manufacturing Systems
• Continuous Assessment 2
• Project & Academic Skills 2: Energy Transition & Sustainability

Third Semester: Smart Manufacturing Systems

The third semester focuses on the design and development of smart manufacturing systems, including the use of software to simulate production processes. Students work on a project to design and optimize a drone frame, which is then manufactured using a 3D printer.

• Mathematics: Differential Equations
• Mass Manufacturing
• Smart Industry
• Materials Science: Polymers
• Tribology
• Dynamics
• Mechanical Vibrations
• Continuous Assessment 3
• Project & Academic Skills 3: Smart Manufacturing Systems

Fourth Semester: Technology for Healthcare

The fourth semester focuses on the application of mechanical engineering principles to healthcare, including the design and development of medical instruments and devices. Students work on a project to design a medical instrument, which is then tested and demonstrated.

• Mathematics: Vector Calculus
• System Analysis
• Signal Analysis
• Precision Engineering
• Control Engineering
• Systems Engineering
• Elasticity Theory & Finite Element Method
• Continuous Assessment 4
• Project & Academic Skills 4: Technology for Healthcare

Fifth and Sixth Semesters

The fifth semester is a minor semester, where students can choose to follow a specialized program at the VU, UT, or another university in the Netherlands. The sixth semester focuses on scientific research in mechanical engineering, including a research project and a final thesis.

• Mathematics: Statistics & Probability
• Fluid Mechanics
• Heat Transfer
• Research Skills
• Continuous Assessment 5
• Project & Academic Skills 5
• BSc Assignment

Research Areas

The Mechanical Engineering program at the VU and UT focuses on several research areas, including:

• Aerodynamics and wind energy
• Biomechanical engineering
• Control engineering
• Dynamics and vibrations
• Energy systems
• Materials science
• Mechanical design
• Mechatronics
• Precision engineering
• Robotics
• Smart manufacturing
• Systems engineering
• Thermodynamics

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities, including:

• Design and development of mechanical systems
• Research and development in industry and academia
• Consulting and engineering services
• Project management and leadership
• Entrepreneurship and innovation