Program Overview

Introduction to Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineering program is a three-year bachelor's degree that focuses on the design, improvement, and maintenance of machines, devices, and installations. This program is designed for individuals with a strong analytical ability and a willingness to tackle challenges.

Program Structure

The program consists of twelve modules, four modules per year, each lasting ten weeks. In each module, students work on a theme that combines theoretical and practical aspects of the study, including research and design of solutions, self-study, and teamwork.

Modules Overview

• Year 1:
  • Module 1 | Design & Manufacturing: Students design and manufacture a tool that does not yet exist.
  • Module 2 | Energy & Materials: Students analyze an existing energy system and redesign it with a focus on materials and thermodynamics.
  • Module 3 | Energy & Sustainability: Students further develop their understanding of energy systems, focusing on sustainability and life cycle analysis.
  • Module 4 | Design & Mechanics: Students design a construction that integrates geometry, materials, and strength.
• Year 2:
  • Module 5 | Dynamic Systems: Students learn to analyze mechanical systems, focusing on movement and dynamics.
  • Module 6 | Product Design: Students design a consumer product in a team, integrating knowledge from various disciplines.
  • Module 7 | Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer: Students delve into complex issues like de-icing aircraft wings or designing heat shields for spacecraft.
  • Module 8 | Mechatronic Design: Students analyze and redesign complex multifunctional systems, such as fuel pumps or cruise control systems.
• Year 3:
  • Modules 9&10 | Elective Modules: Students choose from various options, including deepening modules within their study, broadening modules from other studies, studying abroad, or participating in student teams.
  • Module 11 | Production Systems Engineering: Students conduct a technical-scientific research project within one of the Mechanical Engineering disciplines, learning to set up and execute research and critically evaluate results.
  • Module 12 | Bachelor Assignment: Students work on their bachelor's project, applying the knowledge gained to a real-world challenge, culminating in a research paper and presentation.

Academic and Professional Development

The program aims to develop students into academically grounded, independently thinking, and inventive mechanical engineers. It prepares them for a broad field of work, contributing to innovations and improvements in various sectors, such as energy, transportation, and healthcare.

Transition from High School to University

The program acknowledges the challenging transition from high school to university studies, especially in a field like Mechanical Engineering. To support this transition, the university offers an introduction program, Twente Introduction to Mechanical Engineering (TIME), which helps students adapt to the problem-solving approach essential in this field.

Study Points and Progression

The university operates on a system of study points (ECs), where one EC represents 28 hours of work. Students must achieve 60 ECs per year, with a minimum of 45 ECs required to progress to the second year. The Bindend Studieadvies (BSA) principle guides students' progression, ensuring they receive a positive or negative study advice at the end of their first year based on their performance.

Conclusion

The Mechanical Engineering program at the University of Twente is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, preparing them for a career in designing, improving, and maintaining complex systems and devices. With its structured approach, emphasis on practical application, and support for transition and progression, the program offers a comprehensive education in mechanical engineering.