The Bachelor of Science with a major in mechanical and energy engineering combines the fundamentals of mechanical engineering with a broad specialization in subjects related to energy, manufacturing and design.

The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in mechanical and energy engineering follows an interdisciplinary and innovative curriculum that combines essentials of the classical discipline of mechanical engineering with the deeper knowledge of the dynamic field of energy studies. Thus, the BS degree combines the fundamentals of mechanical engineering with a broad specialization on subjects related to energy production, management and distribution. The goal of the mechanical and energy engineering department is to provide a curriculum and course of training that will prepare undergraduates not only for today’s challenges, but also for future challenges in a fast-paced, global, and diverse society. As a consequence, this program emphasizes the fundamentals, modern methods, processes and technologies of engineering science. It also gives students the tools to learn by themselves and to pursue lifelong learning. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for industry careers and pursuit of advanced engineering degrees.

The mechanical and energy engineering curriculum is very broad. It is similar to a traditional mechanical engineering curriculum with the notable addition of several required energy-related courses and elective courses that emphasize energy applications and materials. In their first year, students in this program will take preparatory courses in mathematics and the basic sciences, including physics and chemistry. The required upper-division engineering courses are in the broad areas of energy-thermal-fluid science; mechanics and materials; dynamics, design and controls; and environmental impact of energy production and use. Technical elective courses range from alternative energy to nuclear power. The program also emphasizes studies in the humanities and social sciences, artistic ingenuity, professionalism, technical communication and engineering ethics.

The department also offers unique curriculum-integrated enrichment opportunities including undergraduate research, co-ops and study abroad exchanges with international partner schools. Minors that provide breadth of experience from other disciplines, including mathematics and hospitality management, can also be integrated seamlessly into the department’s four-year bachelor’s degree plan.

The Bachelor of Science degree with a major in mechanical and energy engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET (abet.org), (111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202; 410-347-7700).

Program educational objectives

1. Graduates are successfully employed in mechanical and/or energy engineering positions and other related fields.
2. Graduates engage in lifelong learning demonstrated by advanced education, professional development activities and/or other career-appropriate options.
3. Graduates are prepared to successfully demonstrate technical and leadership competence through ethical conduct, teaming, communication and/or problem-solving skills learned in our program.

Student outcomes

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science with a major in mechanical and energy engineering, students are enabled to achieve the following outcomes:

1. an ability to identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics

2. an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors

3. an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

4. an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts

5. an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives

6. an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions

7. an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

Degree requirements