Program Overview

Overview

The Advanced Mechanics and Failure Analysis Graduate Certificate provides training in engineering mechanics that goes beyond the typical undergraduate curriculum in two aspects. First, students will have the opportunity to establish systematic fundamental knowledge in advanced engineering mechanics through the courses on solid mechanics, finite element analysis, and continuum mechanics. Second, students will be able to learn specialized methods in failure analysis, composite materials, soft materials, and vibration to address challenging problems in engineering design.

Requirements

Admission Requirements

• Applicants who are not degree-seeking students at the university may apply for a graduate certificate through Continuing Education by submitting a Nondegree Graduate Certificate Application.
• Eligible candidates must hold an undergraduate degree in engineering, sciences, or mathematics from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Our preferred minimum GPA is 3.0.
• Internal applicants who are enrolled bachelor's–accelerated master's (BAM) students at graduate standing or graduate students at CU Boulder in engineering, sciences, or mathematics and have a 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher are eligible to apply.
• We accept applications on a rolling basis.

Certificate Requirements

To complete the certificate program, students will be required to complete 9 graduate-level credits. These credits can be chosen by the student, in consultation with certificate program faculty and the graduate advisors, based on the available courses and description of curriculum. Courses offered each semester will depend on the availability of faculty. At least one relevant course will be offered each fall and spring semester to ensure that students are able to make progress toward completion of the certificate. In accordance with university policy, degree-seeking students will only be eligible for award of the certificate upon completion of their MS degree.

Academic Standards

All degree and non-degree seeking certificate students must meet the following minimum academic standards for successful completion of the certificate:

• Students must receive a minimum grade of a B or higher in each course applied towards certificate requirements.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in certificate courses.

Required Courses and Credits

• Required Courses: Students must take two of the following three courses:
  • MCEN 5228/6228: Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering (Continuum Mechanics)
  • MCEN 5023: Solid Mechanics 1
  • MCEN 5173: Finite Element Analysis
• Electives: Strongly recommended electives:
  • MCEN 5174: Failure of Engineering Materials
  • MCEN 5183: Mechanics of Composite Materials
  • MCEN 5228: Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering (Vibrations)
  • MCEN 5228: Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering (Fracture Mechanic)
  • MCEN 5293: Mechanics of Soft Matter
• Other electives may be considered in consultation with the certificate director.