Department of Mechanical Engineering
Location: 2612A Cherry Building, Phone: (409) 880-8769
Chair: Dr. Hsing-wei Chu
Mechanical Engineering is the profession in which a knowledge of the mathematical and natural sciences gained by study, experience, and practice is applied with judgment to develop ways to use economically the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of mankind." Clearly, from this definition, engineers are to form the interface between sciences and society as they apply, in realistic terms, the findings of science.
The bachelor's program in mechanical engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, .
Mission
The mission of the Department of Mechanical Engineering is to provide students with high quality, accessible undergraduate and graduate mechanical engineering education; to engage and empower students with skills and knowledge to thrive in professional careers; and to serve society through economic and technological development of Southeast Texas and beyond.
Program Educational Objectives
Constituents: Current students, alumni, employers, and faculty
1. Advance professionally with increasing leadership and responsibility beyond entry level in an industry relevant to mechanical engineering.
2. Contribute to organizational objectives with significant societal benefits in an environmentally and ethically responsible manner.
3. Engage in life-long learning through professional activities and training, the pursuit of higher educational degrees, and individual professional development.
Student Outcomes
The student outcomes used by the mechanical engineering program are those published in the ABET “Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs” document. Those outcomes are as follows:
a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering
b) an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data
c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability
d) an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams
e) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
f) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
g) an ability to communicate effectively
h) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context
i) a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning
j) a knowledge of contemporary issues
k) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.
Program Criteria
The Mechanical Engineering Program criterion as listed in the ABET "Criteria for Accrediting Engineering Programs" is as follows:
Curriculum:
The curriculum must require students to apply principles of engineering, basic science, and mathematics (including multivariate calculus and differential equations); to model, analyze, design, and realize physical systems, components or processes; and prepare students to work professionally in either thermal or mechanical systems while requiring topics in each area.
Degrees Offered
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.)
Master of Engineering (M.E.)
Master of Engineering Science (M.E.S.)