德克薩斯大學奧斯汀分校

Mechanical engineering is one of the largest and broadest fields of technical study. Mechanical engineers are concerned with the engineering systems used to control and transform energy to meet the needs of humanity. In mechanical engineering, students develop an understanding of basic topics and fundamental principles upon which engineered systems are conceived and developed in a modern society. It is an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in engineering, as well as for further study in business, law, medicine, and other professions that require a solid foundation in science and technology, and the ability to solve problems.

The mechanical engineering department is dedicated to graduating mechanical engineers who practice mechanical engineering in the general stems of thermal/fluid systems, mechanical systems and design, and materials and manufacturing in industry and government settings; pursue advanced education, research and development, and other creative efforts in science and technology; conduct themselves in a responsible, professional, and ethical manner; and participate as leaders in activities that support service to and economic development of the region, state, and nation.

The mechanical engineering faculty has defined 10 educational outcomes that students in the program are expected to achieve by the time of graduation. These outcomes are

• Knowledge of and ability to apply engineering and science fundamentals to real problems
• Ability to formulate and solve open-ended problems
• Ability to design mechanical components, systems, and processes
• Ability to set up, conduct, and interpret experiments, and to present the results in a professional manner
• Ability to use modern computer tools in mechanical engineering
• Ability to communicate in written, oral, and graphical forms
• Ability to work in teams and apply interpersonal skills in engineering contexts
• Awareness of contemporary issues in engineering practice, including economic, social, political, and environmental issues and global impact

The mechanical engineering curriculum meets these outcomes by providing breadth and depth across a range of topics.

• A combination of college-level mathematics and basic science courses (some with experimental work) that includes mathematics, probability and statistics, physics, and chemistry
• Engineering courses that develop a working knowledge of graphics and computer-aided design, engineering mechanics, thermodynamics, kinematics, dynamics and control of mechanical systems, computational methods, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, materials science and engineering, mechatronics, technical communication, and engineering economics
• Mechanical engineering project and laboratory experiences that develop competence in measurements and instrumentation, interpretation of data, reverse engineering analysis of mechanical systems, use of computational tools for engineering analysis, integration of multidisciplinary topics in design of complex systems, teamwork and project planning, and written and oral communication
• A sequence of engineering design courses, culminating in a major capstone design experience in collaboration with an industrial sponsor, that draws on the knowledge and skills students have acquired in earlier coursework and incorporates modern engineering standards and realistic constraints
• Core curriculum courses, including social and behavioral sciences, humanities, and visual and performing arts electives, that complement the technical content of the curriculum