Masters Program
The program leading to the Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering requires completion of a minimum of 30 points of approved course work consisting of no fewer than 10 courses. A thesis based on either experimental, computational, or analytical research is optional and may be counted in lieu of up to 6 points of course work. In general, attainment of the degree requires one academic year of full-time study, although it may also be undertaken on a part-time basis over a correspondingly longer period. A minimum grade-point average of 2.5 is required for graduation.The student's program of study is developed in consultation with a faculty adviser to reflect the student's special interests. Typical choices include such subjects as mechanics of solids and fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, manufacturing engineering, robotics, kinematics, dynamics and vibrations, controls, and power generation. Nevertheless, the following guidelines must be adhered to:
- The sequence of courses selected must not be haphazard but rather show a clearly discernible specialty.
- All courses must be at the graduate level, i.e., numbered 4000 or higher, with some 6000-level courses included.
- Every program must contain at least one course in mathematics (APMA or MATH designators) or their equivalent, covering material beyond what the student has taken previously. It should appear early in the sequence in order to serve as a basis for the technical course work.
- Out-of-department study is encouraged, but at least 5 courses should be in mechanical engineering.