Early familiarity with computers is becoming more important each year. Ideally, students should be prepared to take analytic geometry and calculus during the first semester of the freshman year. The Mechanical Engineering curriculum begins with courses in English, spoken communication, chemistry, mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering graphics during the freshman year. The curriculum culminates in senior coursework requiring all aspects of engineering design. Seniors work in teams on comprehensive projects submitted by local industry, by the faculty, and by students.
Project development starts with a design on paper and continues through to a working prototype.
All aspects of the design process are required, including problem definition, conceptual design, economics, group activity, fabrication, and testing. Career Opportunities Mechanical engineers design power plants, airplanes, spacecraft, automobiles, heating and air-conditioning systems, conveyors, recreation equipment and elevators. They are employed as environmental engineers, nuclear engineers, and railway engineers. Mechanical engineers are involved in development of technologies for solar and wind energy and exciting new areas like micro-machines. They work in industry, consulting practice, government, and universities.