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Undergraduate Programs

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Undergraduate Program Objectives 

The program educational objectives describe the career and professional accomplishments that the program is preparing graduates to achieve within a few years after graduation. The educational objectives of the undergraduate program, established with participaton of all constituencies, are consistent with the mission of Old Dominion University and the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

The objectives of the undergraduate program at the MAE Department of Old Dominion University are to prepare engineers:

  1. To establish themselves as successful professionals in the general stems of thermal/fluid systems, mechanical systems and design, and materials and manufacturing in industry and government settings by demonstrating their ability to

               (a)   conduct themselves consistently in a responsible, professional and ethical manner.

               (b)  participate in continuing education, research and development, and in other lifelong creative
                     efforts in science and technology.

               (c)   lead others in support of activities that promote service to and economic development of the
                     community, the region, state and nation.

      2.     To successfully pursue and complete graduate programs in mechanical engineering or a related
             field if they so desire.  

Program Outcomes

The students who qualify for graduation will:

  1. Be proficient in mathematics through differential equations, probability and statistics, calculus-based physics, general chemistry, and engineering science and have the ability to apply knowledge in these areas to mechanical engineering problems.
  2. Have ability to design and conduct experiments and to critically analyze and interpret data in various mechanical engineering fields.  
  3. Be able to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability.
  4. Have ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams.
  5. Be able to identify and formulate an engineering problem, to collect and analyze relevant data, and to develop a solution.
  6. Understand and appreciate professional and ethical responsibilities and professional practice issues such as procurement of work, bidding versus quality based selection processes.
  7. Be able to effectively present ideas and technical material to diverse audiences in writing, visually, and verbally.
  8. Have the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a societal and global context.
  9. Understand and appreciate the importance of professional licensure and commitment to life-long learning.
  10. Have knowledge of current issues and awareness of emerging technologies.
  11. Have an ability to use modern engineering techniques, skills, and tools including computer-based tools for mechanical engineering analysis and design.

Comments and suggestions about objectives and outcomes from students, alumni and industry partners are solicited. Please contact us.