Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics BSME
Major: Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics
Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)
Calendar Type: Quarter
Minimum Required Credits: 190.0
Co-op Options: Three Co-op (Five years); One Co-op (Four years)
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code: 14.1901
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code: 17-2141
About the Program
The role of the mechanical engineer in today’s society is rapidly changing. Advances in manufacturing, transportation, infrastructure systems, materials, communications and high-performance computing have introduced new demands, opportunities and challenges for mechanical engineers. What was once an individual endeavor has now become a team activity. Today’s industries require that mechanical engineers possess diverse interdisciplinary skills, a global viewpoint, entrepreneurial and managerial abilities and an understanding of the forces governing the marketplace.
Traditionally, mechanical engineers have been associated with industries like automotive, transportation and power generation, and with activities involving the design, analysis, and manufacturing of products useful to society. While today such activities are still dominated by mechanical engineers, the spectrum of opportunities for these professionals has expanded tremendously. For example, mechanical engineers are involved in the design and analysis of biomedical instrumentation, electronic components, smart structures and advanced materials; they are involved in sophisticated studies of human motion, control of satellites, and the development of more efficient energy-transfer techniques.
Drexel’s Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics (MEM) prides itself on providing its students with a comprehensive program of courses, laboratories, design projects, and co-op experiences. The MEM curriculum is designed to balance technical breadth (provided by a set of fundamental required core courses) with technical depth (provided by optional concentrations that emphasize particular fields within the profession). Thus, the MEM program not only prepares its graduates to become successful mechanical engineers needed in industry and government, but also provides an excellent springboard to pursue graduate studies in medical sciences, law, business, information technology, and any other disciplines where technological and analytical skills play an important role.
Mission Statement
The Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics will be a vibrant and inclusive academic community of choice for diverse students and scholars – one that welcomes and supports those underrepresented in our field into programs distinctive for integrated and collaborative education, inquiry fueled by curiosity-inspired modeling, design, and manufacturing; and the successful application of MEM discoveries and innovations to address humanity’s most pressing challenges.
Vision
The Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics engages students and faculty from around the world in integrated teaching & learning, research, and service that empowers them to solve complex societal problems with technical skills, creativity, and empathy.
Program Educational Objectives
- Our graduates will be successful in careers that deal with the design, simulation, and analysis of engineering systems, experimentation and testing, manufacturing, technical services, and research.
- Our graduates will enter and complete academic and professional programs in engineering, business, management, law and medicine.
- Our graduates will communicate effectively with peers and be successful working with and leading multidisciplinary and multicultural teams.
- Our graduates will recognize the global, legal, societal and ethical contexts of their work.
- Our graduates will advance in their careers; for example, assuming increasing levels of responsibility and acquiring professional licensure.
Student Outcomes
The Department’s student outcomes reflect the skills and abilities that the curriculum is designed to provide to students by the time they graduate. These are:
- An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics
- An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors
- An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts
- 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
- An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed using appropriate learning strategies
Additional Information
The Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
For additional information about this major, visit the Mechanical Engineering program page or contact the MEM Department.
Degree Requirements
| General Education/Liberal Studies Requirements | ||
| CIVC 101 | Introduction to Civic Engagement | 1.0 |
| COM 310 | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COOP 101 | Career Management and Professional Development * | 1.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| or ENGL 111 | English Composition I | |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing | 3.0 |
| or ENGL 112 | English Composition II | |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres | 3.0 |
| or ENGL 113 | English Composition III | |
| PHIL 315 | Engineering Ethics | 3.0 |
| UNIV E101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| General Education Requirements ** | 12.0 | |
| Mathematics Requirements *** | 4.0-10.0 | |
| Algebra, Functions, and Trigonometry and Calculus I | ||
| OR | ||
| Calculus and Functions I and Calculus and Functions II † | ||
| OR | ||
| Calculus I | ||
| MATH 122 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| MATH 200 | Multivariate Calculus | 4.0 |
| MATH 201 | Linear Algebra | 4.0 |
| MATH 210 | Differential Equations | 4.0 |
| Physics Requirements *** | 4.0-8.0 | |
| Preparation for Engineering Studies and Fundamentals of Physics I | ||
| OR | ||
| Fundamentals of Physics I | ||
| PHYS 102 | Fundamentals of Physics II | 4.0 |
| PHYS 201 | Fundamentals of Physics III | 4.0 |
| Chemistry Requirements ‡ | 3.5-7.5 | |
| General Chemistry I and General Chemistry I | ||
| OR | ||
| General Chemistry I | ||
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| Engineering Design Requirements | ||
| ENGR 111 | Introduction to Engineering Design & Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| ENGR 113 | First-Year Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| ENGR 131 | Introductory Programming for Engineers | 3.0 |
| or ENGR 132 | Programming for Engineers | |
| Engineering Economics Requirements | ||
| CIVE 240 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3.0 |
| Materials Requirements | ||
| MATE 220 | Fundamentals of Materials | 4.0 |
| Mechanical Requirements | ||
| MEM 201 | Foundations of Computer Aided Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 202 | Statics | 3.0 |
| MEM 210 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| MEM 220 | Fluid Mechanics I | 4.0 |
| MEM 230 | Mechanics of Materials I | 4.0 |
| MEM 238 | Dynamics | 4.0 |
| MEM 255 | Introduction to Controls | 4.0 |
| MEM 260 | Thinking Like a Mechanical Engineer | 3.0 |
| MEM 261 | Introduction to Mechatronics for Mechanical Engineers | 3.0 |
| MEM 310 | Thermodynamic Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MEM 311 | Thermal Fluid Science Laboratory | 2.0 |
| MEM 321 | Fluid Mechanics II | 4.0 |
| MEM 330 | Mechanics of Materials II | 4.0 |
| MEM 331 | Experimental Mechanics I | 2.0 |
| MEM 333 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3.0 |
| MEM 345 | Heat Transfer | 4.0 |
| MEM 351 | Dynamic Systems Laboratory I | 2.0 |
| MEM 355 | Performance Enhancement of Dynamic Systems | 4.0 |
| MEM 360 | Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 361 | Engineering Reliability | 3.0 |
| MEM 423 | Mechanics of Vibration | 4.0 |
| MEM 431 | Machine Design I | 3.0 |
| MEM 435 | Introduction to Computer-Aided Engineering | 4.0 |
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MEM 492 | Senior Design Project II | 3.0 |
| MEM 493 | Senior Design Project III | 3.0 |
| MEM Open Electives (Any two MEM courses 300 level or higher.) | 6.0-8.0 | |
| COE Electives (Any College of Engineering courses, including MEM courses, 300 level or higher.) | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Math Elective (Any one of MATH 291, MATH 300, MATH 321, MATH 322, or MATH 323) | 3.0-4.0 | |
| Free Electives | 6.0-8.0 | |
| Total Credits | 190.0-210.0 | |
- *
Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major.
COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.
- **
- ***
MATH and PHYS sequences are determined by the student's Calculus Placement Exam score and the completion of any summer online preparatory courses available based on that score.
- †
Some students may need a one-credit concurrent practicum course depending on their calculus exam score and summer preparatory review participation.
- ‡
CHEM sequence is determined by the student's Chemistry Placement Exam score and the completion of a summer online preparatory course available based on that score.
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Program. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term.
Sample Plan of Study
4 year, 1 co-op, Spring-Summer
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I * | 0.0,3.5 |
| MATH 121 | Calculus I ** | 0.0,4.0 |
| ENGL 101 or ENGL 111 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research or English Composition I | 3.0 |
| ENGR 111 | Introduction to Engineering Design & Data Analysis | 0.0,3.0 |
| UNIV E101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Credits | 4-14.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 0.0,4.5 |
| MATH 122 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| ENGL 102 or ENGL 112 | Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing or English Composition II | 3.0 |
| ENGR 131 or ENGR 132 | Introductory Programming for Engineers or Programming for Engineers | 0.0-3.0 |
| PHYS 101 | Fundamentals of Physics I ** | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 7-18.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIVC 101 | Introduction to Civic Engagement | 1.0 |
| ENGL 103 or ENGL 113 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres or English Composition III | 3.0 |
| ENGR 113 | First-Year Engineering Design | 0.0,3.0 |
| MATH 200 | Multivariate Calculus | 0.0,4.0 |
| PHYS 102 | Fundamentals of Physics II | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 4-15 | |
| Summer | ||
| VACATION | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 201 | Linear Algebra | 4.0 |
| MATE 220 | Fundamentals of Materials | 4.0 |
| MEM 202 | Statics | 0.0,3.0 |
| MEM 260 | Thinking Like a Mechanical Engineer | 3.0 |
| PHYS 201 | Fundamentals of Physics III | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 11-18 | |
| Winter | ||
| MATH 210 | Differential Equations | 4.0 |
| MEM 201 | Foundations of Computer Aided Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 210 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| MEM 238 | Dynamics | 4.0 |
| MEM 261 | Introduction to Mechatronics for Mechanical Engineers | 3.0 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIVE 240 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3.0 |
| MEM 230 | Mechanics of Materials I | 4.0 |
| MEM 255 | Introduction to Controls | 4.0 |
| MEM 310 | Thermodynamic Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MEM 360 | Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Summer | ||
| COOP 101 | Career Management and Professional Development *** | 1.0 |
| MEM 220 | Fluid Mechanics I | 4.0 |
| MEM 330 | Mechanics of Materials II | 4.0 |
| MEM 331 | Experimental Mechanics I | 2.0 |
| MEM 355 | Performance Enhancement of Dynamic Systems | 4.0 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COM 310 | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| MEM 311 | Thermal Fluid Science Laboratory | 2.0 |
| MEM 321 | Fluid Mechanics II | 4.0 |
| MEM 435 | Introduction to Computer-Aided Engineering | 4.0 |
| PHIL 315 | Engineering Ethics | 3.0 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 333 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3.0 |
| MEM 345 | Heat Transfer | 4.0 |
| MEM 351 | Dynamic Systems Laboratory I | 2.0 |
| MEM 423 | Mechanics of Vibration | 4.0 |
| College of Engineering elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Summer | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MEM 361 | Engineering Reliability | 3.0 |
| MEM 431 | Machine Design I | 3.0 |
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MEM elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education elective † | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 492 | Senior Design Project II | 3.0 |
| Math Elective (Any one of MATH 291, MATH 300, MATH 321, MATH 322, or MATH 323) † | 3.0 | |
| General Education Electives † | 6.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 493 | Senior Design Project III | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education elective † | 3.0 | |
| Free electives | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 150-190 | |
- *
CHEM sequence is determined by the student's Chemistry Placement Exam score and the completion of a summer online preparatory course available based on that score.
- **
MATH and PHYS sequences are determined by the student's Calculus Placement Exam score and the completion of any summer online preparatory courses available based on that score.
- ***
Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major.
COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.
- †
See degree requirements.
4 year, 1 co-op, Fall-Winter
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I * | 3.5 |
| MATH 121 | Calculus I ** | 4.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| ENGR 111 | Introduction to Engineering Design & Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| UNIV E101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Credits | 14.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 0.0,4.5 |
| MATH 122 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| ENGL 102 or ENGL 112 | Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing or English Composition II | 3.0 |
| ENGR 131 or ENGR 132 | Introductory Programming for Engineers or Programming for Engineers | 3.0 |
| PHYS 101 | Fundamentals of Physics I ** | 4.0 |
| Credits | 14-18.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| MATH 200 | Multivariate Calculus | 0.0,4.0 |
| PHYS 102 | Fundamentals of Physics II | 4.0 |
| CIVC 101 | Introduction to Civic Engagement | 1.0 |
| ENGL 103 or ENGL 113 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres or English Composition III | 3.0 |
| ENGR 113 | First-Year Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| Credits | 11-15 | |
| Summer | ||
| VACATION | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 201 | Linear Algebra | 4.0 |
| PHYS 201 | Fundamentals of Physics III | 4.0 |
| MATE 220 | Fundamentals of Materials | 4.0 |
| MEM 202 | Statics | 3.0 |
| MEM 260 | Thinking Like a Mechanical Engineer | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Winter | ||
| COOP 101 | Career Management and Professional Development *** | 1.0 |
| MATH 210 | Differential Equations | 4.0 |
| MEM 201 | Foundations of Computer Aided Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 210 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| MEM 238 | Dynamics | 4.0 |
| MEM 261 | Introduction to Mechatronics for Mechanical Engineers | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 230 | Mechanics of Materials I | 4.0 |
| MEM 255 | Introduction to Controls | 4.0 |
| MEM 310 | Thermodynamic Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MEM 360 | Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| CIVE 240 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Summer | ||
| MEM 220 | Fluid Mechanics I | 4.0 |
| MEM 330 | Mechanics of Materials II | 4.0 |
| MEM 331 | Experimental Mechanics I | 2.0 |
| MEM 355 | Performance Enhancement of Dynamic Systems | 4.0 |
| Credits | 14 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Winter | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 311 | Thermal Fluid Science Laboratory | 2.0 |
| MEM 321 | Fluid Mechanics II | 4.0 |
| MEM 435 | Introduction to Computer-Aided Engineering | 4.0 |
| PHIL 315 | Engineering Ethics | 3.0 |
| COM 310 | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Summer | ||
| MEM 345 | Heat Transfer | 4.0 |
| MEM 351 | Dynamic Systems Laboratory I | 2.0 |
| MEM 423 | Mechanics of Vibration | 4.0 |
| MEM 333 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3.0 |
| MEM or College of Engineering Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MEM 361 | Engineering Reliability | 3.0 |
| MEM 431 | Machine Design I | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MATH Elective (Any one of MATH 291, MATH 300, MATH 321, MATH 322, or MATH 323) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 6.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 493 | Senior Design Project III | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 181.5-190 | |
- *
CHEM sequence is determined by the student's Chemistry Placement Exam score and the completion of a summer online preparatory course available based on that score.
- **
MATH and PHYS sequences are determined by the student's Calculus Placement Exam score and the completion of any summer online preparatory courses available based on that score.
- ***
Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major.
COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.
- †
See degree requirements.
5 year, 3 co-op, Spring-Summer
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I * | 0.0,3.5 |
| MATH 121 | Calculus I ** | 0.0,4.0 |
| ENGL 101 or ENGL 111 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research or English Composition I | 3.0 |
| ENGR 111 | Introduction to Engineering Design & Data Analysis | 0.0,3.0 |
| UNIV E101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Credits | 4-14.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 0.0,4.5 |
| MATH 122 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| ENGL 102 or ENGL 112 | Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing or English Composition II | 3.0 |
| ENGR 131 or ENGR 132 | Introductory Programming for Engineers or Programming for Engineers | 0.0-3.0 |
| PHYS 101 | Fundamentals of Physics I ** | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 7-18.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| CIVC 101 | Introduction to Civic Engagement | 1.0 |
| COOP 101 | Career Management and Professional Development *** | 1.0 |
| ENGL 103 or ENGL 113 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres or English Composition III | 3.0 |
| ENGR 113 | First-Year Engineering Design | 0.0,3.0 |
| MATH 200 | Multivariate Calculus | 0.0,4.0 |
| PHYS 102 | Fundamentals of Physics II | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 5-16 | |
| Summer | ||
| VACATION | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MATH 201 | Linear Algebra | 4.0 |
| MATE 220 | Fundamentals of Materials | 4.0 |
| MEM 202 | Statics | 3.0 |
| MEM 260 | Thinking Like a Mechanical Engineer | 3.0 |
| PHYS 201 | Fundamentals of Physics III | 4.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Winter | ||
| MATH 210 | Differential Equations | 4.0 |
| MEM 201 | Foundations of Computer Aided Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 210 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| MEM 238 | Dynamics | 4.0 |
| MEM 261 | Introduction to Mechatronics for Mechanical Engineers | 3.0 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Spring | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Summer | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| CIVE 240 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3.0 |
| MEM 230 | Mechanics of Materials I | 4.0 |
| MEM 255 | Introduction to Controls | 4.0 |
| MEM 310 | Thermodynamic Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MEM 360 | Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 220 | Fluid Mechanics I | 4.0 |
| MEM 330 | Mechanics of Materials II | 4.0 |
| MEM 331 | Experimental Mechanics I | 2.0 |
| MEM 355 | Performance Enhancement of Dynamic Systems | 4.0 |
| Credits | 14 | |
| Spring | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Summer | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COM 310 | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| MEM 311 | Thermal Fluid Science Laboratory | 0.0,2.0 |
| MEM 321 | Fluid Mechanics II | 4.0 |
| MEM 435 | Introduction to Computer-Aided Engineering | 4.0 |
| PHIL 315 | Engineering Ethics | 3.0 |
| Credits | 14-16 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 345 | Heat Transfer | 4.0 |
| MEM 351 | Dynamic Systems Laboratory I | 2.0 |
| MEM 333 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3.0 |
| MEM 423 | Mechanics of Vibration | 4.0 |
| College of Engineering elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Summer | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MEM 361 | Engineering Reliability | 3.0 |
| MEM 431 | Machine Design I | 3.0 |
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 492 | Senior Design Project II | 3.0 |
| Math Elective (Any one of MATH 291, MATH 300, MATH 321, MATH 322, or MATH 323) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 6.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 493 | Senior Design Project III | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 155-190 | |
- *
CHEM sequence is determined by the student's Chemistry Placement Exam score and the completion of a summer online preparatory course available based on that score.
- **
MATH and PHYS sequences are determined by the student's Calculus Placement Exam score and the completion of any summer online preparatory courses available based on that score.
- ***
Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major.
COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.
- †
See degree requirements.
5 year, 3 co-op, Fall-Winter
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I * | 3.5 |
| MATH 121 | Calculus I ** | 4.0 |
| ENGL 101 or ENGL 111 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research or English Composition I | 3.0 |
| ENGR 111 | Introduction to Engineering Design & Data Analysis | 3.0 |
| UNIV E101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Credits | 14.5 | |
| Winter | ||
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| COOP 101 | Career Management and Professional Development *** | 1.0 |
| MATH 122 | Calculus II | 4.0 |
| ENGL 102 or ENGL 112 | Composition and Rhetoric II: Advanced Research and Evidence-Based Writing or English Composition II | 3.0 |
| ENGR 131 or ENGR 132 | Introductory Programming for Engineers or Programming for Engineers | 3.0 |
| PHYS 101 | Fundamentals of Physics I ** | 4.0 |
| Credits | 19.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| MATH 200 | Multivariate Calculus | 4.0 |
| PHYS 102 | Fundamentals of Physics II | 4.0 |
| ENGL 103 or ENGL 113 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Themes and Genres or English Composition III | 3.0 |
| ENGR 113 | First-Year Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| CIVC 101 | Introduction to Civic Engagement | 1.0 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Summer | ||
| Vacation | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Winter | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Spring | ||
| MATH 201 | Linear Algebra | 4.0 |
| PHYS 201 | Fundamentals of Physics III | 4.0 |
| MATE 220 | Fundamentals of Materials | 4.0 |
| MEM 202 | Statics | 3.0 |
| MEM 260 | Thinking Like a Mechanical Engineer | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Summer | ||
| MATH 210 | Differential Equations | 4.0 |
| MEM 201 | Foundations of Computer Aided Design | 3.0 |
| MEM 210 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| MEM 238 | Dynamics | 4.0 |
| MEM 261 | Introduction to Mechatronics for Mechanical Engineers | 3.0 |
| Credits | 17 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Winter | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 230 | Mechanics of Materials I | 4.0 |
| MEM 255 | Introduction to Controls | 4.0 |
| MEM 310 | Thermodynamic Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MEM 360 | Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering Design | 3.0 |
| CIVE 240 | Engineering Economic Analysis | 3.0 |
| Credits | 18 | |
| Summer | ||
| MEM 220 | Fluid Mechanics I | 4.0 |
| MEM 330 | Mechanics of Materials II | 4.0 |
| MEM 331 | Experimental Mechanics I | 2.0 |
| MEM 355 | Performance Enhancement of Dynamic Systems | 0.0,4.0 |
| Credits | 10-14 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Winter | ||
| COOP EXPERIENCE | ||
| Credits | 0 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 311 | Thermal Fluid Science Laboratory | 2.0 |
| MEM 435 | Introduction to Computer-Aided Engineering | 4.0 |
| MEM 321 | Fluid Mechanics II | 4.0 |
| COM 310 | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| PHIL 315 | Engineering Ethics | 3.0 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Summer | ||
| MEM 423 | Mechanics of Vibration | 4.0 |
| MEM 345 | Heat Transfer | 4.0 |
| MEM 351 | Dynamic Systems Laboratory I | 2.0 |
| MEM 333 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | 3.0 |
| MEM or College of Engineering Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| MEM 491 | Senior Design Project I | 3.0 |
| MEM 361 | Engineering Reliability | 3.0 |
| MEM 431 | Machine Design I | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Winter | ||
| MEM 492 | Senior Design Project II | 3.0 |
| MATH Elective (Any one of MATH 291, MATH 300, MATH 321, MATH 322, or MATH 323) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 6.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MEM 493 | Senior Design Project III | 3.0 |
| MEM Elective (300+ or higher) | 3.0 | |
| General Education Elective † | 3.0 | |
| Free Elective | 3.0 | |
| Credits | 12 | |
| Total Credits | 186-190 | |
- *
CHEM sequence is determined by the student's Chemistry Placement Exam score and the completion of a summer online preparatory course available based on that score.
- **
MATH and PHYS sequences are determined by the student's Calculus Placement Exam score and the completion of any summer online preparatory courses available based on that score.
- ***
Co-op cycles may vary. Students are assigned a co-op cycle (fall/winter, spring/summer, summer-only) based on their co-op program (4-year, 5-year) and major.
COOP 101 registration is determined by the co-op cycle assigned and may be scheduled in a different term. Select students may be eligible to take COOP 001 in place of COOP 101.
- †
See degree requirements.
Co-op/Career Opportunities
Mechanical engineers are employed in a growing number of areas, including aerospace, automotive, biomechanics, computer systems, electronic entertainment, energy, environmental, health care, manufacturing, nuclear technology, and utilities.
Most mechanical engineering graduates begin full-time employment immediately upon graduation. However, there are a number of graduates who go on to pursue master’s and/or doctoral degrees in mechanical engineering. The graduate schools that Drexel’s mechanical engineers have attended include Harvard, UC Berkeley, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Visit the Drexel Steinbright Career Development Center for more detailed information on co-op and post-graduate opportunities.
Facilities
Instructional Laboratories
Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics (MEM) supports instructional laboratories to provide hands-on experience with engineering measurements and to augment classroom instruction in the areas of mechanics, systems and controls, thermal fluid sciences and design and manufacturing along with a college-supported machine shop to aid senior design.
Specialized Laboratories
Develops miniature devices for biological and medical applications using microfabrication and microfluidics technologies. Our research projects are highly multidisciplinary in nature and thus require the integration of engineering, science, biology, and medicine. Projects are conducted in close collaboration with biologists and medical doctors. Our research methodology includes design and fabrication of miniature devices, experimental characterization, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation.
Computer-aided Design Lab (CAD)
Provides access to software such as AutoCAD, ANSYS, Abagus, CREO, and SOLIDWORKS either in the 42 workstation lab which is available by card access 24/7, or over any network connection using our CITRIX server. Computations are performed on a virtual pc running at the server, and students can use any smart device for input and display.
Theoretical and Applied Mechanics Group Laboratory (TAMG)
Through experimental, analytical, and computational investigations, TAMG develops insights into the deformation and failure of materials, components and structures in a broad range of time and length scales. To accomplish this goal, TAMG develops procedures that include mechanical behavior characterization coupled with non-destructive testing and modern computational tools. This information is used both for understanding the role of important material scales in the observed bulk behavior and for the formation of laws that can model the response to prescribed loading conditions.
Electrochemical Energy Systems Laboratory (ECSL)
Addresses the research and development needs of emerging alternative energy technologies. ECSL specializes in the design, diagnostics, and characterization of next-generation electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems; particularly fuel cell and battery technology. Current areas of research include polymer electrolyte fuel cells for stationary, portable, and transportation areas of next-generation flow battery technology for intermittent energy storage, load leveling and smart-grid applications. ECSL uses a comprehensive approach, including advanced diagnostics, system design, materials characterization, and computational modeling of electrochemical energy systems.
Multiscale Thermofluidics Lab
Develops novel scalable nanomanufacturing techniques using biological templates to manipulate micro- and nano-scale thermal and fluidic phenomena. Current work includes enhancing phase-change heat transfer with super-wetting nanostructured coatings and transport and separation through nanoporous membrances.
Biofabrication Laboratory
Utilizes cells or biologics as basic building blocks in which biological models, systems devices and products are manufactured. Biofabrication techniques encompass a broad range of physical, chemical, biological, and/or engineering process, with various applications in tissue science and engineering, regenerative medicine, disease pathogeneses and drug testing studies, biochips and biosensors, cell printing, patterning and assembly, and organ printing.
The Program for Biofabrication at Drexel integrates computer-aided tissue engineering, modern design and manufacturing, biomaterials and biology in modeling, design, and biofabrication of tissue scaffolds, tissue constructs, micro-organ, tissue models. The ongoing research focuses on bio-tissue modeling, bio-blueprint modeling, scaffold informatics modeling, biometric design of tissue scaffold, additive manufacturing of tissue scaffolds, cell printing and organ printing.
The facilities at the Biofabrication Laboratory include:
- state-of-the-art computer-aided design/engineering/manufacturing (CAD/CAE/CAM) software, medical image processing and 3D reconstruction software, and in-house developed heterogeneous modeling and homogenization software
- proprietary multi-nozzle cell deposition system for direct cell writing and construction of tissue precursors and micro-organs
- proprietary precision extruding deposition system for fabrication of 3D bipolymer tissue scaffolds
- commercial available 3DP free-form fabrication system for bio-physical modeling
- plasma instrument for surface treatment and surface functionalization
- MTS universal testing system
- laboratory for cell and tissue culture study
Complex Fluids and Multiphase Transport Lab
Conducts both experimental and modeling studies on heat/mass transfer and multi-phase flows, as well as transport phenomena in additive manufacturing and energy systems. Current projects range from basic studies in interfacial transport in directed-assembly of functional materials and nanostructure-enhanced two-phase heat transfer to design of innovative dry cooling power plants and electrochemical energy storage systems.
Laboratory for Biological Systems Analysis
Applies system level engineering techniques to biological systems with emphasis on:
- The development of bio-robotic models as tools for investigating hypotheses about biological systems
- The use of system identification techniques to evaluate the functional performance of physiological systems under natural behavioral conditions
- The design of systems that are derived from nature and use novel techniques, such as electro-active polymers, to achieve superior performance and function
Advanced Design and Manufacturing Laboratory
This laboratory provides research opportunities in design methodology, computer-aided design, analysis and manufacturing, and materials processing and manufacturing. Facilities include various computers and software, I-DEAS, Pro/E,ANSYS, MasterCAM, Mechanical DeskTop, SurfCAM, Euclid, Strim, ABQUS, and more. The machines include two Sanders Model Maker rapid prototyping machines, a BridgePort CNC Machining Center, a BOY 220 injection molding machine, an Electra high-temperature furnace for metal sintering, infiltration, and other heat treatment.
Biomechanics Laboratory
Emphasis in this laboratory is placed on experimental modelling studies of the mechanical properties of human joints, characterization of the mechanical properties of biological materials, studies of human movements, and design and development of joint replacements with particular emphasis on total ankle replacement. Facilities include a 3-D kinematic measuring system, Tensile testing machine, joint flexibility testers, and microcomputers for data acquisition and processing.
Combustion and Fuels Chemistry Laboratory
Investigate chemical and physical factors that control and, hence, can be used to tailor combustion processes for engineering applications. Facilities include continuous spectroscopic reaction monitoring systems, static reactors, combustion bombs, flat flame burner systems, flow reactors, and complete analytical and monitoring instrumentation.
Research is conducted in the areas of (1) low temperature hydrocarbon oxidation, (2) cool flames, (3) auto-ignition, (4) flame instabilities, (5) flame structure, (6) flame ignition, and (7) flame extinction (quelching). New ways to improve fuel efficiency in practical combustors and recover waste energy in the transportation sector are also being explored.
Composite Mechanics Laboratory
Emphasis in this laboratory is placed on the characterization of performance of composite materials. Current interest includes damage mechanisms, failure processes, and time-dependent behavior in resin-, metal-, and ceramic-matrix composites. Major equipment includes servo-hydraulic and electromechanical Instron testing machines, strain/displacement monitoring systems, environmental chambers, microcomputers for data acquisition and processing, composites fabrication facility, interferometric displacement gauge, X-radiography, and acoustic emission systems.
Nyheim Plasma Institute (Formerly A.J. Drexel Plasma Institute)
The Nyheim Plasma Institute was formed in 2002 to stimulate and coordinate research projects related to plasma and other modern high energy engineering techniques. Today the institute is an active multidisciplinary organization involving 23 faculty members from 6 engineering departments working in close collaboration with School of Biomedical Engineering, College of Arts and Sciences and College of Nursing and Health Professions.
Heat Transfer Laboratory
The heat transfer laboratory is outfitted with an array of instrumentation and equipment for conducting single- and multiphase heat transfer experiments in controlled environments. Present efforts are exploring the heat and mass transfer process in super-critical fluids and binary refrigerants.
Precision Instrumentation and Metrology Laboratory
This laboratory is focused on activities related to precision measurement, computer-aided inspection, and precision instrument design. Facilities include 3D Coordinate Measuring Machine (Brown & Sharpe) with Micro Measurement and Reverse engineering software, Surface Profilometer, and Laser Displacement Measuring System.
Program Level Outcomes
- Identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
- 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
- Communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- 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
- Function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks and meet objectives
- Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies