Mechanical Engineering, Bachelor of Science (543P, 543) < Western Kentucky University (2024)

Program Coordinator

Morteza Nurcheshmeh, morteza.nurcheshmeh@wku.edu, (270) 745-2473

Mechanical engineers are involved in designing and building almost everything that is needed in our modern world, from nearly invisible electro-mechanical devices to enormous power generating and distribution systems producing millions of horsepower. Mechanical engineers use scientific principles from the physical world to create a tremendous variety of mechanical and thermal systems. Practicing mechanical engineers use these principles to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain systems that include:

• automobiles and aircraft
• heating and cooling systems
• electric power plants
• specialized materials
• manufacturing plants
• industrial equipment and machinery

Mechanical engineers need a solid understanding of engineering science, which includes mechanics, engineering materials, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. The program at WKU focuses on these sciences as well as design and professional skills necessary for a successful career in mechanical engineering. Our graduates have a strong competitive advantage with their unique background of engineering fundamentals combined with practical knowledge and experience. The mechanical engineering program provides a project-based, learner-driven environment relevant to the needs of modern society. In support of this learning environment, the professional engineering activities of the faculty create opportunities for the students to practice the art and science of contemporary Mechanical Engineering.

The curriculum requires a minimum of 58.5 technical specialty hours, completion of required Colonnade coursework, and 32-33 semester hours of required mathematics and science.

The WKU Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org.

Mechanical Engineering Program Educational Objectives

The mission is achieved by focusing on specific program educational objectives. Within a few years of completing the Mechanical Engineering Program, a graduate will:

Objective 1: Either be contributing to their regions’ economic development through employment in mechanical engineering or related professions, or pursuing advanced credentials.
Objective 2: Occupy leadership roles in their profession, or in their communities, as their career develops
Objective 3: Demonstrate professionalism on diverse teams across a range of varied responsibilities
Objective 4: Be proactive in their professional development and engage in the continuing education needed to maintain and enhance their career.

For detailed information on the mechanical engineering program, please see the “Mechanical Engineering Program Guide” (available at http://wku.edu/seas ) and/or contact your advisor.

Program Requirements (58.5 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Academic Standards for the Mechanical Engineering Program

Students are admitted as a Pre-Major in Mechanical Engineering. In order to transition from Pre-Major to Major and to graduate with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, student must satisfy the requirements below. All courses below must have a grade of “C” or better.

These pre-major eligibility requirements MUST be completed before enrolling in ME200: Sophom*ore Design. Check degree audit for progress towards meeting these requirements.

Program Requirements

Students must complete a minimum of 32 hours of mathematics and science courses beginning with MATH136. Student must also satisfy the WKU Colonnade requirements.

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