Mission

The mission of the Mechanical Engineering Department is to supply quality academic instruction through undergraduate, graduate, and graduate-professional degree programs, conduct fundamental and applied research that achieves national and international recognition, and provide professional service to its constituencies, all in support of broad societal needs and the institutional objectives of the University of Louisville.

Educational Objectives

The objectives of the Mechanical Engineering Department’s accredited Bachelor of Science/Master of Engineering Program are to:

1. Provide a high quality education that prepares graduates to function successfully as practicing mechanical engineers (shorthand reference: “Engineers in Industry”).
2. Equip students to contribute to the body of technical knowledge in the field of Mechanical Engineering through participation in projects that are aligned with University of Louisville research priorities (Participation in Projects).
3. Prepare graduates for licensing as professional mechanical engineers (Prepare for PE Licensing).
4. Promote an awareness among program graduates of the need to comply with professional ethics codes, engage in life-long technical learning, and undertake professional development (Life-Long Learning).
5. Provide students with opportunities for the development of skills in leadership, communication, and team-building (Leadership/Communication).

1. The ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering to the solution of problems encountered in Mechanical Engineering practice (Fundamentals).
2. An ability to design and conduct experiments assessing phenomena encountered during Mechanical Engineering practice, along with the ability to analyze and interpret the resulting data (Experimental Techniques).
3. An ability to design Mechanical Engineering systems, components, or processes that meet requirements (Design).
4. An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams in both leadership roles and as an individual contributor (Teamwork).
5. The ability to identify and describe Mechanical Engineering problems, formu¬late constraints, devise and assess alternative approaches, and implement an optimal solution that satisfies specified performance, cost, time, and safety requirements (Problem Solving).
6. A solid understanding of professional and ethical responsibility in the field of Mechanical Engineering, as well as a record of adherence to those standards during academic coursework and cooperative education internships (Ethics).
7. The ability to communicate effectively in writing, during interpersonal discus¬sions, and through formal multi-media presentations, along with the ability to use these skills within the context of Mechanical Engineering practice (Communication).
8. An understanding of the impact of Mechanical Engineering solutions in a global and societal context (Societal Perspective).
9. An understanding of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning (Continuing Education).
10. A knowledge of contemporary issues, along with an understanding of how such issues influence technology evolution and implementation (Contemporary Issues).
11. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for the practice of Mechanical Engineering (Engineering Practice).