Solid Mechanics is the study of how structures and materials move, transmit loads, deform, interact, and fail. The field of Solid Mechanics allows us to understand and predict the behavior of structures comprising materials that range from engineering materials (like metals, composites, and concrete) to biological materials (like soft tissues and bones). Specialty areas within Solid Mechanics include fatigue, fracture, mechanics of composites, biomechanics, high strain-rate mechanics, geomechanics, and multiscale mechanics of materials. A foundational understanding of Solid Mechanics is crucial to the design and analysis of structures found in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, energy, and biomedical applications.
Mechanical engineers play a significant role in designing and manufacturing all of the products and systems essential to everyday modern life: home appliances, bikes, recreational equipment, automobiles, satellites, wheelchairs, airplanes, robots, industrial equipment, and environmental control systems. The field of mechanical engineering (ME) is concerned with the mechanical, thermal, and fluid-flow aspects of all of these systems, including computer and feedback control of complex systems. As a mechanical engineering student at the University of Utah, you will learn the professional, technical, critical thinking, and communication skills you need to be successful and make meaningful contributions to this exciting field.
Career Opportunities
Mechanical engineers are prepared to pursue work in a variety of fields using the skills gained from research, interning, or coursework. U alumni have found work as engineers in a number of areas such as product design, aerospace, manufacturing, robotics, or sustainable energy - as well, as jobs in quality control and software development. With additional education at the graduate level, students can become professors, researchers, or administrators.
