Mechanical Engineering Technology

Associate in Applied Science Degree

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This program prepares students to fill mechanical engineering technician (or related) career fields. It also lays a foundation for students who plan on pursuing a four-year mechanical technology curriculum. The program includes topics in technical computing, mechanical analysis, manufacturing systems, and material testing. The Mechanical Engineering Technology Program is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org.

Prospective students should take three years of rigorous college preparatory mathematics (four are recommended), including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. One year of high school, laboratory science is required (chemistry and physics are recommended). The Computer-Aided Drafting certificate or AOS Degree may serve as preparation for this program; check with the School of STEM - Career for an advisor.

Program Educational Objectives:

  1. Graduates will obtain employment in the Mechanical Engineering
    Technology field and/or continue in their field(s) of interest to
    successfully contribute to a diverse and global workplace by using the
    technical and organizational skills they acquired in the MET program.
  2. Graduates will maintain and foster a positive environment in the
    workplace conducive to teamwork, professionalism, and continuous
    improvement.
  3.  Graduates will, within two to three years upon graduation, have
    progressed in their technical careers to levels of higher responsibility
    and/or will have completed additional education development to meet the
    needs of employers in the region.

Student Outcomes:

    Graduates have:
  1. An ability to apply knowledge, techniques, skills and modern tools of
    mathematics, science, engineering, and technology to solve well-defined
    engineering problems appropriate to the discipline
  2. An ability to design solutions for well-defined technical problems and
    assist with the engineering design of systems, components, or processes
    appropriate to the discipline
  3. An ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in
    well-defined technical and non-technical environments; and an ability to
    identify and use appropriate technical literature
  4. An ability to conduct standard tests, measurements, and experiments and
    to analyze and interpret the results
  5. An ability to function effectively as a member of a technical team

Program Specific Curricular Areas:

  1. Application of principles of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  2. Use of computer aided drafting and design software
  3. Selection, set-up, and calibration of measurement tools/instrumentation
  4. Preparation of laboratory reports and systems documentation associated with development, installation, or maintenance of mechanical components and systems
  5. Basic familiarity and use of industry codes, specifications, and standards
  6. Use of basic engineering mechanics
  7. An integrating or capstone experience utilizing skills acquired in the
    program

Total Credit Hours: 64

First Semester

This course is an opportunity for students to develop the skills necessary to be successful in college. Students learn the importance of the faculty-student and advisor-advisee relationship, develop time management techniques, apply effective study skill techniques, recognize the implications of living in a diverse society, utilize college resources, and explore career and transfer requirements. Collaborative projects are included. Students matriculated in a degree program must take this course in their first term of study.

This course focuses on several kinds of writing-self-expressive, informative, and argumentative/persuasive, and others. A minimum of five essay compositions are required. The course emphasizes the composition of clear, correct, and effective prose required in a variety of professions and occupations. Prerequisites: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or EN090 Basic Writing Skills or SL116 ESL4: Advanced Composition or SL145 ESOL Advanced Composition

This is the first of a two-course sequence for students in programs that require mathematics through polynomial calculus. Algebraic manipulations, graphing skills and problem solving are emphasized. Topics include systems of linear equations including Cramer’s Rule, quadratic equations, variation, factoring and fractions, vectors and oblique triangles, and an introduction to trigonometry and applications. Prerequisite: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA115 Intermediate Mathematics.

This course introduces traditional processes used in manufacturing and methods of processing raw materials into manufactured components. Materials such as plastics, metals, composites, and elements of micro-fabrication and nano-fabrication are covered. Assembly methods include plastics joining, fasteners, and automation.

This course provides the foundation and problem-solving skills necessary to develop and interpret engineering drawings using the computer-aided drafting software (AutoCAD). Topics include assembly and detail drawing composition; design for assembly/manufacturing (DFA/DFM); geometric dimensioning and tolerancing; tolerance control and standard fits; fasteners; gearing; sheet metal developments; weldments; functional drafting techniques; and the development of 2-D and 3-D CAD generated drawings and system operations.

This course is an introduction into the use of three-dimensional solid modeling CAD software. Topics include creating models using features such as protrusions, cuts, rounds, blends, revolutions, and sweeps. Model planning and design intent are stressed. Assemblies, drawings, documentation, and detailing are also covered, as well as output and interfaces with common software such as spreadsheets and word processing.

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Second Semester

This course encourages a deeper understanding of human nature and the human condition through the study of ideas and values expressed in imaginative literature. Emphasis is placed on the use and development of critical thinking and language skills. Library-oriented research is required. Prerequisite: EN101 English 1: Composition or EN105 English Composition for Speakers of Other Languages or EN106 English 1: Composition & Reading.

This is the second of a two-course sequence for students in programs that require mathematics through polynomial calculus. Topics include complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, analytic geometry, limits, derivatives and integrals of polynomial functions, applications of the derivative, and area under a curve. Prerequisite: MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics 1.

This course is a study of force systems and their actions on bodies at rest. Topics include force systems, equilibrium of force systems, distributed forces, friction, moments of inertia, centroids, and bending and shear diagrams. The Laboratory component emphasizes computer analysis. Prerequisite: MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics or a higher level mathematics course which includes trigonometry.

This course introduces the theory and practices of metal removal as applied in industry. The set-up and safe operation of conventional machine tools is stressed, along with their capabilities and limitations. Common processes such as drilling, grinding,milling, threading, and turning are utilized. Topics include speeds and feeds, metal cutting theory, cutting fluids, selection of tooling, fixturing, precision measurement, and layout procedures. Prerequisites: MT140 Drafting and Design Using AutoCAD, and either MA105 Technical Mathematics 1 or MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics 1(Spring semester)

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Third Semester

This course introduces to the field of chemistry for science and engineering students. Topics include dimensional analysis, stoichiometry, periodicity, atomic structure and bonding, the states of matter, solutions, and acid and base concepts. The laboratory exercises exemplify chemical principles and develop individual problem-solving abilities. The laboratory experience includes preparation of the laboratory report and notebook. Prerequisites: High School Chemistry; and appropriate high school GPA or placement test score, or MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics 1, or MA139 College Algebra, or a corequisite of MA125 College Algebra and Trigonometry.

This non-calculus Physics course for technology, business administration, computer science, and liberal arts and sciences students covers topics in mechanics, wave motion, and heat. Prerequisite: Appropriate high school GPA or placement test score or MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics 1, or MA125 College Algebra and Trigonometry.

This advanced processes course covers the fundamental theory and application of CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) technology. Programming methods include conversational, G-M Code, and Symbolic FANUC Automatically Programmed Tools. Tool selection and calibrations, part zero, tool offsets, program editing, troubleshooting, and fixturing are also stressed. Rapid prototyping, Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS), group technology, robotics, and CAD/CAM systems are also discussed. (Fall semester) Prerequisites: MT141 Machining Fundamentals.

The course introduces the fundamentals of strength of materials. Topics in stress analysis are included. Laboratory activities focus on testing procedures, reporting, and computer analysis. Prerequisites: MT126 Statics Mechanical, CT121 Statics Civil, or ES271 Engineering Science.

This course covers basic functions and challenges of managers in the manufacturing and business environment, focusing on lean manufacturing, small businesses, and entrepreneurship. Topics include: Total Quality Management, continuous improvement, value-added activities and analysis, waste analysis, Just-In-Time, applications of Statistical Quality Control, and other current management methods and techniques. Lab activities may include off-site projects. Prerequisites: MT114 Manufacturing Processes or MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics 1.

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Fourth Semester

This course addresses the methods and theory of practical machine design. Topics include stress analysis, shaft design, kinematics of linkages, springs, gears, chains, belts, bearings and welding joints. The application of computer aided design software to some of the analysis problems are covered. An introduction to finite element analysis software are presented. Prerequisites: MT140 Drafting and Design Using AutoCAD and MT230 Strength of Materials: Mechanical.

This course includes the theory and use of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical devices to activate and regulate the displacement and position of machine components, basic energy principles applied to mechanical and electrical systems, relay ladder logic, and motor circuits. Prerequisite: MA106 Technical Mathematics 2 or higher level mathematics course containing algebra.

This course covers the processing and performance of engineering materials as well as their physical and chemical properties. Topics include the chemistry of metals, plastics, and ceramics. Phase diagrams, heat treatment of metals, and micrographs are studied in the laboratory. Prerequisite: MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics AND either CH131 College Chemistry or CH141 General Chemistry 1 or PH151 General Physics 1, AND MT230 Strength of Materials: Mechanical or ES261 Mechanics of Materials.

This course covers the fundamental topics and applications of fluid mechanics. Topics include fluid properties, fluid statics, conservation of energy and mass, pipe and duct flow, pumps, and measurement of fluid properties and states. An introduction to heat transfer is included, applying theory to thermal and hydraulic systems. Prerequisite: MA121 Fundamentals of College Mathematics or a higher level mathematics course which includes trigonometry

This course presents the biological and evolutionary history of humans. Basic concepts of evolutionary theory, human genetics, human biological adaptation and diversity, and the hominid fossil record are explored. It includes the behavior and ecology of living non-human primates.

This course introduces economic theory and its relevance to daily life in a market economy. Topics include scarcity, supply and demand, choice, economic growth, taxation, and the role of government in the economy. Attention is given to current economic issues and their impact upon everyday life.

This course introduces the many and varied facets of psychology. Emphasis is on interactions of individuals in their cultural, social, and economic environments as determined by their cognitive, behavioral, and emotional experiences and training.

This course gives an understanding of and a feeling for the society in which we live. The concepts and theories discussed relate to humanity, its culture and society, and to those forces that contribute to the smooth operation of this society as well as those forces that contribute to conflict and social problems. Topics include culture, socialization, stratification, population, and patterns of social organization.

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(a) Social Science Restricted electives: AN101 Biological Anthropology, BM101 Survey of Economics, PY101 Introduction to General Psychology, and SO101 Introduction to Sociology.