The Thermal Systems Engineering emphasis is comprised of classes that provide understanding of a wide variety of engineered systems that involve thermal sciences. Students can explore devices from nanoscale to macroscale with a firm grounding in heat transfer and thermodynamic principles. This emphasis prepares students to contribute in many different areas where thermal energy conversion and thermal energy transfer are important, including: heating, ventilation, air-conditioning & refrigeration, thermal power plant engineering, and thermo-mechanical design. Students completing this emphasis will be able to apply these principles to practical systems in their industry, or continue their studies in graduate school in programs emphasizing thermal science.
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.
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.
