Degree Overview
Studies begin in mathematics, mechanics, and thermodynamics and progress to courses such as machine design, heat transfer, and system dynamics. Students also learn how to apply scientific principles, engineering analysis, and engineering design to solve unstructured problems. In their senior year, students will work in small teams with individual faculty to complete capstone design projects. Some projects will be based on faculty research advancing basic understanding in Mechanical Engineering. Through the college's Learning Factory, industry-sponsorship may be available for some projects, giving students the opportunity to work on "real world" design challenges while completing their education.
Mechanical engineers research, design, test, manufacture, and operate products ranging from automobiles to rocket engines. They have tremendous flexibility, working in every type of industry, in jobs ranging from research and development to manufacturing and operations. Mechanical engineers also work in product design, procurement, technical sales, and management. Graduates enter a wide variety of industries such as health care, energy, military, transportation, consumer products, and sports/recreation. A mechanical engineering education is also an excellent preparation for careers such as technical management, business law, patent attorney and technical sales.
Educational Objectives
The educational objectives of the Penn State Berks Mechanical Engineering Program are to produce graduates who, within three years of graduation, are able to:
A. Be employed as a practicing engineer in fields such as design, research, development, testing, and manufacturing.
B. Be on the path to assume positions of leadership and responsibility within an organization.
C. Progress through advanced degree or certificate programs in engineering, business, and other professionally related fields.
Student Outcomes
- Students have an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
- Students have 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.
- Students have an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
- Students have 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.
- Students have 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.
- Students have an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
- Students have an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
- Students have the ability to work professionally in thermal or mechanical systems areas.
