Major:
- Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
Concentrations:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Energy Systems-Mechanical
Minors:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Human Movement Biomechanics
- Robotic Systems
Mechanical engineers apply principles of motion, energy, force, materials, and mathematics to design and analyze a wide variety of products and systems. The field requires an understanding of core concepts including mechanics, kinematics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, materials science and controls. Mechanical engineers use these core principles along with tools like computer-aided engineering and product life cycle management to design and analyze manufacturing plants, industrial equipment and machinery, heating and cooling systems, automotive systems, aircraft, robotics, medical devices, and more. Today, mechanical engineers are pursuing developments in such fields as composites, mechatronics, and nanotechnology, and are helping to create a more sustainable future.
The mechanical engineering curriculum serves as a broad-based education for positions in these diverse fields or for graduate study leading to advanced degrees. The first part of the mechanical engineering curriculum provides a firm foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer-aided drawing and conceptual design and the humanities. The second part of the curriculum provides the engineering science fundamentals and laboratory experiences necessary for testing and design, as well as continued learning in the humanities, arts, and social sciences. The final part of the curriculum emphasizes synthesis of knowledge through major design projects. The curriculum includes sufficient elective courses to permit a concentration in aerospace, energy systems and engineering as well as minors in several other areas.
Our mission is to educate excellent mechanical and aerospace engineers that lead the pursuit of the common good. We foster creativity and innovation to design and implement novel systems and solutions that make a difference. We employ innovative pedagogies, emphasize technical rigor and critical thinking, encourage students to make transdisciplinary connections, and integrate students into our scholarship. We provide practical and impactful experiential learning opportunities that inspire and prepare our students to realize their purpose and make a better future.
The University of Dayton Mechanical Engineering Program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org. Our mechanical engineering program leads to the Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree. The department offers master's and doctoral degrees in both mechanical and aerospace engineering and a master's degree in renewable and clean energy engineering.
The education experience, guided by the University of Dayton Catholic and Marianist heritage, seeks to prepare graduates who will attain the following outcomes in preparation for entering the professional practice of engineering:
1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
3. An ability to communication effectively with a range of audiences
4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies
Within the first several years following completion of the program, University of Dayton Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering graduates are prepared to meet the following program educational objectives:
- Acquire and retain challenging careers as innovative engineers in a wide variety of industries and professional organizations.
- Provide significant engineering expertise to their employer, continuing to learn new skills.
- Serve as responsible team members and aspire to leadership.
- Communicate effectively to both technical and nontechnical audiences.
- Establish a reputation for integrity, ethical conduct, and community service

