Mechanical Engineering is the broadest of the engineering disciplines, concerned with anything that moves or uses energy. There are two major stems in mechanical engineering: mechanical systems and thermal fluid systems. Mechanical engineers design, build, and analyze complex devices, systems and processes that involve the conversion of energy from one form to another, the production of work, and the transport of energy and mass from one location to another.

This minor provides a foundation in mechanical engineering and is most appropriate for students with a strong mathematics and science background, such as a major in another engineering or science field.

Admissions 

To be admitted to the minor, students must have completed MATH 114 Analytic Geometry and Calculus II and PHYS 160 University Physics I (Mason Core)/PHYS 161 University Physics I Laboratory (Mason Core) with a grade of C or better.

Policies

The minor in mechanical engineering consists of a minimum of 20-21 credit hours of coursework. All students must complete 14 credit hours of core courses. They must also complete two additional elective courses. All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.

Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.

For policies governing all undergraduate programs, see AP.5 Undergraduate Policies.

Banner Code: ME

Minor Requirements

Total credits: 20-21

Core Courses

ENGR 107Introduction to Engineering (Mason Core)2
or ME 151 Practicum in Engineering
ME 211Statics3
ME 212Solid Mechanics3
ME 221Thermodynamics3
ME 231Dynamics3
Total Credits14

Elective Requirements

Select two additional courses from the following:6-7
Material Science
Fluid Mechanics
Heat Transfer
Design of Mechanical Elements
Design of Thermal Systems
Entrepreneurship in Engineering
Fatigue Analysis
Composite Materials
HVAC Design
Renewable Energy Engineering
Systems Dynamics
Systems Dynamics and Controls
Finite Element Analysis
Energetics
Computer-Aided Design
Project Mgmt for Engineers
Introduction to Astronautics
Spacecraft Subsystems
Space Systems Propulsion
Aeronautics I
Aeronautics II
Special Topics in Mechanical Engineering (must choose at least a 3 credit section)
Total Credits6-7