Mechanical engineers are often called the "general practitioners" of engineering because their education is extremely broad and their services span many of the interdisciplinary technical, social, environmental and economic problems that face the world today. The mechanical engineering domain encompasses the wide realm of motion, all forms of energy conversion and transmission; the flow of fluids and heat; the development, design and operation of machinery and equipment; material structure and properties; and transportation processes. Thus mechanical engineers are involved in almost every aspect of our technology.
In July 2011, the departments of Mechanical Engineering (MECH) and Engineering Mechanics (EM) merged into one administrative unit: Mechanical & Materials Engineering. This merger allows the department to offer comprehensive undergraduate and graduate degrees in several primary areas, combining the expertise and research interests of faculty from both departments.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is to impact society locally and globally through our educational programs, research, and service, developing knowledge and sharing our expertise in the best traditions of land-grant universities. We strive for excellence in teaching and learning at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, seek to develop novel educational opportunities, grow our public and private support for research and education, and expand our scholarship, outreach and service.
Program Objectives
Within a few years of graduation, our graduates are expected to:
- have started successful careers based on their education or have completed a professional degree or a graduate degree in engineering or related field;
- have begun lifelong learning and development in order to remain current in their knowledge and skills and to advance in their careers; and
- have established a record of professionalism, leadership, respect and integrity in working to serve humanity and to use resources responsibly.
Student Objectives
The educational program leading to the B.S. in Mechanical Engineering ensures that students attain the following outcomes:
- an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering;
- an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data;
- an ability 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;
- an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams;
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems;
- an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility;
- an ability to communicate effectively;
- the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context;
- a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning;
- a knowledge of contemporary issues;
- an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.