Mechanical Engineering

Program Description

The curriculum of the Bachelor of Science is Mechanical Engineering is designed to graduate engineers who can apply fundamental principles of Mechanical Engineering with competence and sensitivity to meeting the needs of society and to continue a lifelong process of learning and growth in the profession.  To achieve these goals, the program begins with a heavy concentration in mathematics, physics and chemistry.  These courses form the foundation upon which the engineering curriculum is built.  In addition the student is introduced to computational tools and to basic engineering practice.  Subsequently, there is an emphasis on engineering science and design courses where the principles of mathematics, physics, and chemistry are applied and expanded upon in the context of engineering analysis, design, and practice.  Students are exposed to experimental methods for testing and evaluation of materials, thermal/fluid processes, and equipment.  The senior year offers an introduction to the multiplicity of technical areas with which mechanical engineers are concerned. Through technical electives and the capstone design experience the student can explore various specialties according to their interest. 

Mission

To build a welcoming mechanical and industrial engineering community that transforms lives by providing an affordable, accessible education of high-quality, conducting innovative research, and contributing service, so that our members can reach their potential, contribute to knowledge creation, and improve people’s lives.

Requirements of the Major

Program Educational Objectives and Student Outcomes

Program Educational Objectives are defined as the expected accomplishments of graduates of the program in the first few years after graduation. Graduates of the BSE Mechanical Engineering program at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell will be able to:
  • Apply engineering fundamentals, experiments, and practical tools to solve complex engineering problems and develop creative solutions.
  • Engage in successful careers to better society through ethical engineering practice, sustainable solutions, and entrepreneurship.
  • Enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities while growing in new directions through engineering practice and continuing education.
  • Effectively communicate and contribute to interdisciplinary teams and their communities, both local and global.

Student Outcomes for the BSE degree in mechanical engineering at UMass Lowell are as follows. At graduation students should have: 

  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 communicate 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 
  8. an ability to integrate the use of modern computer-based engineering tools into engineering practice