Mechanical Engineering (ME) is essential to a wide range of activities that include the research, design, development, manufacture, management, and control of engineering systems, subsystems, and their components. Mechanical engineers use the fundamentals of engineering mechanics, energy, thermal-fluid sciences, and material sciences to design and analyze mechanical systems that perform useful tasks required by society. For example, mechanical engineers work with the design and function of machines, devices, and structures in the areas of manufacturing, processing, power generation, and transportation (air, land, sea, and space). As a result of rapidly expanding technology in recent years, mechanical engineers have become more versed in computer-aided design, robotics, bioengineering, environmental engineering, solar, wind, and ocean energy sources, and space exploration. The breadth of the field provides the graduate with many possibilities for a satisfying career. Typically, mechanical engineers are employed by the manufacturing, power, aerospace, automotive, computer hardware and software, and processing industries. Careers are also available in design and development organizations as well as in many federal and state agencies. Program Objectives. The mission of the Mechanical Engineering Program at Minnesota State University, Mankato, is to provide a broad-based education that will enable graduates to enter practice in the mechanical engineering profession, serving the needs of the State of Minnesota and the Nation. Within a few years of graduation, graduates of the Mechanical Engineering Program at Minnesota State University, Mankato will be expected to: Meet or exceed the expectations of employers of mechanical engineers. Pursue their education with short courses, licensure programs, and/or post-graduate studies. , Pursue leadership positions in their profession and/or communities. The program mission and educational objectives are fully compatible with the mission of Minnesota State University, Mankato and the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. Program objectives are monitored by the constituencies (the program's Industrial Advisory Board representing employers and alumni, students, and faculty of the program). Other important features of the mechanical engineering program at Minnesota State Mankato include the following: Students are required to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam in their senior year - a precursor to professional registration. ,Students are encouraged to work in engineering related areas for exposure to industrial practice. Internships are strongly recommended. ,Senior students must participate in a full academic year design experience working in a team similar to development teams in industry and government. Industrial sponsored projects are offered when available. Preparation. Recommended high school preparation is one year each of precalculus (or equivalent), physics and chemistry. Without this background it may take longer than four years to earn the degree. Engineering drafting (CAD) and a computer language are also recommended.
