Mechanical Engineering is a broad discipline covering a wide variety of potential specializations. The broad-based and general nature of a mechanical engineering program yields graduates of particular interest for various roles in industry. The career paths of mechanical engineers are largely determined by individual choices. “Mechanical engineers research, develop, design, manufacture, and test tools, engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. They work on power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines such as refrigeration and air-conditioning equipment, machine tools, material handling systems, elevators and escalators, industrial production equipment, and robots used in manufacturing. Mechanical engineers also design tools that other engineers need for their work. Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers may work in production operations in manufacturing or agriculture, maintenance, or technical sales; many are administrators or managers.” *

The objectives of our program are to provide students with the knowledge and skills of the profession that will be useful as they begin their careers and/or prepare for advanced studies. Currently, the program is designed with two areas of specialization contained within the general degree offering a combination which is unique in Connecticut. Through deliberate choice of electives; students can opt for specializing in manufacturing or aerospace studies. The manufacturing specialization is based upon the School of Engineering and Technology’s strength in this field and the aerospace specialization fulfills the regional requirements of industry. A specialization allows students to tailor the program to meet individual goals or interests, as well as, to address the changing needs of the industrial employers.

Nationwide, engineering programs are often assessed as being highly analytical and lacking relevant application skills. Since the strength within the School of Engineering and Technology is the significant percentage of laboratory-based coursework and hands-on experiential learning, the mechanical engineering curriculum incorporates considerable applied knowledge-based and experimental student activities. In addition to the basic chemistry and physics laboratory courses, the mechanical engineering program includes laboratory components in computer-aided design and integrated manufacture, manufacturing engineering processes, principles of computer numerical control, materials analysis, fluid mechanics, instrumentation, and senior (capstone) research and senior design projects. This program will also require proof of 400 hours professional experience.

Students with academic ability in mathematics and sciences, and possessing interest in how and why things work are prime candidates for this engineering program. These may be high school students desiring to pursue university studies on a full-time basis, or industry personnel interested in career advancement pursuing a mechanical engineering degree on a part-time or evening basis. Critical and logical thinking for problem solving is integrated within the coursework, which is combined with analytical and communication skills in the two-term capstone experience.

Our students have no problems seeking Co-op or full time employment. Companies such as Trumph Manufacturing, Loctite, Pratt and Whitney, Hamilton Standard and Sikorsky are very satisfied with CCSU graduates, and many alumni work for these employers as a result.

Mechanical Engineering vs. Mechanical Engineering Technology

In general, engineering involves a wide spectrum of activities extending from conception, design, development, of new system or product through implementation, production and operation. On the other hand, engineering technology is typically applications oriented, combines various technical skills, and is somewhat less theoretical and mathematically oriented than engineering.

According to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) program differences are delineated by the figure below showing clear distinctions and overlapping areas. The professional society also specifies the typical aspirations and interests of new graduates for each track as follows: **

* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Engineers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm (visited June 06, 2006).

** ASME, “ Mechanical Engineering – Mechanical Engineering Technology – which path will you take?”, Pamphlet MP 4805, October 2005.