Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is a broad field of engineering that applies principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. It is one of the oldest and most versatile engineering disciplines, covering areas such as mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, materials, and control systems.

Mechanical engineers work on a wide range of technologies, from engines, machines, and manufacturing equipment to renewable energy systems, robotics, aerospace, and medical devices. The field emphasizes problem-solving, innovation, and the integration of engineering fundamentals to develop efficient, reliable, and sustainable solutions for real-world challenges.

Highlights of mechanical engineering at Butler include:

• Small classes and faculty mentorship
• Digital technology and AI integration
• 25+ year history of Engineering at Butler through EDDP
• Industry internships in a major metropolitan location
• Undergraduate research
• Community-engaged learning
• Hands-on lab experiences
• Design throughout the curriculum, including a year-long senior design sequence

Program Educational Objectives for Mechanical Engineering

Within 3–5 years of graduation, our alumni will:

• PEO 1. Apply mechanical engineering principles, technical skills, and a liberal arts foundation to solve complex problems, contribute to innovation, and advance technologies in diverse professional settings including industry, government, and academia.
• PEO 2. Continuously pursue personal and professional development through advanced education, certifications, or self-directed learning in mechanical engineering or related fields, staying abreast of evolving technologies and global engineering challenges.
• PEO 3. Demonstrate leadership, ethical decision-making, and social responsibility in their professional roles in mechanical engineering or related fields, contributing to sustainable solutions that benefit communities and address global needs.

Student Learning Outcomes for Mechanical Engineering

Student outcomes for the mechanical engineering program are:

• 1) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex mechanical engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
• 2) an ability to apply mechanical engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
• 3) an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
• 4) an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in mechanical engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
• 5) an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
• 6) an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions, and
• 7) an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Curriculum

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree curriculum provides a strong background in core engineering and science courses with an emphasis on:

• Materials
• Mechanics
• Thermal-fluid systems
• Control
• Design
• CAD/CAM

The mechanical engineering program requires 125 semester credit hours for graduation. Topics cover 39 credits of general math/science, 12 credits of core engineering coursework, and an additional 47 hours of major specific requirements.

To graduate, students must complete all required engineering courses with a GPA of 2.0 or better, demonstrating mastery of key competencies aligned with the program’s outcomes.

Sample Four-Year Plan