Department of Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME). The program is currently accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org. Individuals enrolling in this degree program are given the opportunity to develop a strong background in Engineering Science and to learn the analysis, design, and synthesis tools necessary to contribute in traditional and emerging areas of technology.

The department has excellent laboratory facilities where students receive hands-on instruction from faculty members. Computer-aided design (CAD) facilities, including state-of-the-art workstations, are routinely used. Some classes are taught by adjunct faculty from local industries, giving students the opportunity to interact with engineering professionals engaged in relevant engineering practice.

Because of the broad engineering training in this program, graduates may find employment in many industries, including companies or government agencies associated with aerospace, automotive, energy, petroleum, manufacturing, biomedical engineering, and research.

Direct Admission Criteria

Applicants entering UTSA as Freshmen or Freshmen Transfers (fewer than 12 transferable semester credit hours) will be directly admitted to the ME program if they:

  • meet all UTSA undergraduate admission requirements,
  • qualify for enrollment in MAT 1214 Calculus I , or a higher level mathematics course, and
  • are ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class (no minimum SAT or ACT scores required), or
  • are ranked below the top 10 percent of their high school class and have a minimum 1200 SAT* or 25 ACT score.

Applicants with SAT scores below 1200 or ACT scores below 25 may undergo admission by committee review. 

Transfer requirements for direct admission to the ME program for students who have earned 12 or more transferable semester credit hours:

  • meet all UTSA undergraduate transfer admission requirements, and
  • have completed MAT 1214 Calculus I  and WRC 1013 Freshman Composition I , or the equivalents, with grades of “C-” or better, and
  • meet grade point average requirements:
  • applicants with a transfer grade point average of 3.00 or higher may be granted direct admission to the major, or
  • applicants with a transfer grade point average below 3.00 may be granted admission to the College by ­committee review.

Applicants who do not meet Mechanical Engineering admission requirements will be admitted to the Engineering, Math, and Sciences Studies in the University College. Students have three semesters to complete Calculus I with a grade of "C-" or better and meet the ME Transfer Requirements.

“C-” Grade Rule

A grade of “C-” or better in any science, engineering, or mathematics course required for an engineering degree or any other course that is a prerequisite to a required ME or Engineering (EGR) course indicates satisfactory preparation for further engineering education. Any course assigned a grade below a “C-” must be repeated before enrolling in any course for which it is a prerequisite. This requirement is subject to both the Gateway Course and Three-Attempt Limit rules.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering offers students the opportunity to prepare for careers in traditional, new, and emerging technologies related to the practice of Mechanical Engineering, which is a versatile and broadly-based engineering discipline. Mathematics and basic sciences, such as physics and chemistry, form the foundation of mechanical engineering, which requires an understanding of diverse subject areas, such as solid and fluid mechanics, thermal sciences, mechanical design, structures, material selection, manufacturing processes and systems, mechanical systems and control, and instrumentation.

The Mechanical Engineering curriculum provides education and basic engineering training through the required coursework. Students may develop increased specialization and depth through the selection of technical elective courses. Development of open-ended, problem-solving skills is a part of many mechanical engineering courses. Design projects with formal report writing are included in many courses. In addition, a substantial portion of technical elective courses is devoted to the design of systems and components. A capstone design sequence at the senior level provides an opportunity to apply and integrate the knowledge gained throughout the curriculum to the development of an instructor-approved project.

The laboratory requirements are designed to provide hands-on experience in basic measurement and instrumentation equipment and the application of classroom theory. Students may receive additional hands-on experiences by selecting technical elective courses with laboratory components.

Opportunities exist for students to participate in research and design projects. All students are eligible to participate in undergraduate research, through the independent study courses. Students also have an opportunity to participate in an approved co-op program and may receive up to 3 semester credit hours for their experience.

Program Educational Objectives

The Mechanical Engineering Program prepares students to attain the following program educational objectives a few years after graduation:

  1. Have engineering or other careers in industry, government, and/or will pursue advanced graduate or professional degrees.
  2. Apply their engineering knowledge, critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving skills in professional engineering practice or in non-engineering fields.
  3. Continue to advance their knowledge, communication, and leadership skills through graduate education, professional development courses, self-directed study, and/or on-the-job training and experience.
  4. Apply their understanding of societal, environmental, and ethical issues to their professional activities.

Student Outcomes

Graduates of the UTSA Mechanical Engineering Program will demonstrate the following student outcomes. Attainment of these outcomes prepares graduates to enter the professional practice of engineering.

  1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
  2. An ability to apply 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 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
  7.  An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

The minimum number of semester credit hours required for this degree is 128, at least 39 of which must be at the upper-division level. All candidates for this degree must fulfill the Core Curriculum requirements, the General Engineering requirements, and the degree requirements, listed below. A minimum grade of “C-” or better is required for all mathematics, science, Engineering (EGR), and Mechanical Engineering (ME) courses in the curriculum.

Core Curriculum Requirements (42 semester credit hours)

Students seeking the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must fulfill the University Core Curriculum requirements in the same manner as other students. The courses listed below satisfy both major requirements and Core Curriculum requirements; however, if these courses are taken to satisfy both requirements, then students may need to take additional courses in order to meet the minimum number of semester credit hours required for the degree.

MAT 1214 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Mathematics, as well as one of the General Engineering requirements. PHY 1943 and PHY 1963 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in Life and Physical Sciences, as well as two of the General Engineering requirements. EGR 1403 may be used to satisfy the core requirement in the Component Area Option.

For a complete listing of courses that satisfy the Core Curriculum requirements, see Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements.

Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements

First Year Experience Requirement (3 semester credit hours)

All students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AIS 1203Academic Inquiry and Scholarship3
AIS 1213AIS: Architecture, Construction, and Planning3
AIS 1223AIS: Arts and Humanities3
AIS 1233AIS: Business3
AIS 1243AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences3
AIS 1253AIS: Interdisciplinary Education3
AIS 1263AIS: Life and Health Sciences3
AIS 1273AIS: Social Sciences and Public Policy3

Communication (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

WRC 1013Freshman Composition I3
WRC 1023Freshman Composition II3

Mathematics (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

CS 1173Data Analysis and Visualization3
MAT 1023College Algebra with Applications3
MAT 1043Introduction to Mathematics3
MAT 1053Mathematics for Business3
MAT 1073Algebra for Scientists and Engineers3
MAT 1093Precalculus3
MAT 1133Calculus for Business3
MAT 1193Calculus for the Biosciences3
MAT 1214Calculus I4
STA 1053Basic Statistics3

Life and Physical Sciences (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

ANT 2033Introduction to Biological Anthropology3
AST 1013Introduction to Astronomy3
AST 1033Exploration of the Solar System3
BIO 1203Biosciences I for Science Majors3
BIO 1223Biosciences II for Science Majors3
BIO 1233Contemporary Biology I3
BIO 1243Contemporary Biology II3
CHE 1083Introduction to the Molecular Structure of Matter3
CHE 1093Introduction to Molecular Transformations3
ES 1113Environmental Botany3
ES 1123Environmental Zoology3
ES 1213Environmental Geology3
ES 2013Introduction to Environmental Science I3
ES 2023Introduction to Environmental Science II3
GEO 1013The Third Planet3
GEO 1033Geology of North American National Parks3
GEO 1123Life Through Time3
GES 2613Intro to Physical Geography3
PHY 1943Physics for Scientists and Engineers I3
PHY 1963Physics for Scientists and Engineers II3

Language, Philosophy and Culture (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AAS 2013Introduction to African American Studies3
AAS 2113African American Culture, Leadership and Social Issues3
ANT 2063Language, Thought, and Culture3
ARC 1113Introduction to the Built Environment3
ARC 2423Global History of Architecture and Urbanism: Renaissance to 19th Century3
CHN 1014Elementary Chinese I4
CLA 2013Introduction to Ancient Greece3
CLA 2023Introduction to Ancient Rome3
CLA 2323Classical Mythology3
CSH 1103Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture I3
CSH 1113Literary Masterpieces of Western Culture II3
CSH 1213Topics in World Cultures3
CSH 2113The Foreign Film3
ENG 2013Introduction to Literature3
ENG 2023Literature and Film3
ENG 2213Literary Criticism and Analysis3
ENG 2383Multiethnic Literatures of the United States3
ENG 2423Literature of Texas and the Southwest3
ENG 2443Persuasion and Rhetoric3
FRN 1014Elementary French I4
FRN 2333French Literature in English Translation3
GER 1014Elementary German I4
GER 2333German Literature in English Translation3
GES 1023World Regions & Global Change3
GLA 1013US in Global Context3
GRK 1114Introductory Classical Greek I4
HIS 2123Introduction to World Civilization to the Fifteenth Century3
HIS 2133Introduction to World Civilization since the Fifteenth Century3
HIS 2533Introduction to Latin American Civilization3
HIS 2543Introduction to Islamic Civilization3
HIS 2553Introduction to East Asian Civilization3
HIS 2573Introduction to African Civilization3
HIS 2583Introduction to South Asian Civilization3
HUM 2093World Religions3
ITL 1014Elementary Italian I4
ITL 2333Italian Literature in English Translation3
JPN 1014Elementary Japanese I4
LAT 1114Introductory Latin I4
MAS 2013Introduction to Chicano(a) Studies3
PHI 1043Critical Thinking3
PHI 2013Basic Philosophical Problems3
PHI 2023Introduction to Ancient Philosophy3
PHI 2033Introduction to Early Modern Philosophy3
PHI 2123Contemporary Moral Issues3
RUS 1014Elementary Russian I4
RUS 2333Russian Literature in English Translation3
SPN 1014Elementary Spanish I4
SPN 2333Hispanic Literature in English Translation3
WGSS 2013Introduction to Women’s Studies3
WGSS 2023Introduction to LGBTQ Studies3

Creative Arts (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AHC 1113Art History I3
AHC 1123Art History II3
ARC 1513Great Buildings and Cities of the World3
ARC 2413Global History of Architecture and Urbanism: Prehistory to Medieval3
ART 1103Introduction to Visual Arts3
BBL 2023Latino Cultural Expressions3
CLA 2033Introduction to Classical Literature3
DAN 2003Introduction to Dance3
HUM 2023Introduction to the Humanities I3
HUM 2033Introduction to the Humanities II3
HUM 2053History of Film3
MAS 2023Latino Cultural Expressions3
MUS 2243World Music in Society3
MUS 2633American Roots Music3
MUS 2653Music in Culture3
MUS 2663History and Styles of Jazz3
MUS 2673History and Styles of Rock3
MUS 2683History and Styles of Western Art Music3
MUS 2713History of Recorded Music3
MUS 2743Music and Film3
PHI 2073Philosophy of Art3

American History (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

HIS 1043United States History: Pre-Columbus to Civil War Era3
HIS 1053United States History: Civil War Era to Present3
HIS 2053Texas History3

Government-Political Science (6 semester credit hours)

Students must complete two of the following courses, for a total of 6 semester credit hours:

POL 1013Introduction to American Politics3
and one of the following two courses:
POL 1133Texas Politics and Society3
POL 1213Civil Rights in Texas and America3

Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete one of the following courses, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

AMS 2043Approaches to American Culture3
ANT 1013Introduction to Anthropology3
ANT 2043Introduction to Archaeology3
ANT 2053Introduction to Cultural Anthropology3
BBL 2003Language, Culture, and Society3
BBL 2243Bilingual Families, Communities, and Schools: National and Transnational Experiences3
BIO 1033Drugs and Society3
CRJ 1113The American Criminal Justice System3
ECO 2003Economic Principles and Issues3
ECO 2023Introductory Microeconomics3
EGR 1343The Impact of Modern Technologies on Society3
ES 1003Survey Topics in Environmental Studies3
GES 1013Fundamentals of Geography3
GES 2623Human Geography: People, Place, Culture3
HTH 2413Introduction to Community and Public Health3
HTH 2513Personal Health3
IDS 2113Society and Social Issues3
PSY 1013Introduction to Psychology3
SOC 1013Introduction to Sociology3
SOC 2013Social Problems3
SOC 2023Social Context of Drug Use3

Component Area Option (CAO) (3 semester credit hours)

Students must complete either one of the following courses or any additional Core Curriculum course not previously used to satisfy a core component area requirement, for a total of 3 semester credit hours:

COM 2113Public Speaking3
EGR 1403Technical Communication3
ENG 2413Technical Writing3
PAD 1113Public Administration and Policy in American Society3
PHI 2043Introductory Logic3
Core Curriculum Component Area Requirements
First Year Experience Requirement 3
Communication 6
Mathematics 3
Life and Physical Sciences 6
Language, Philosophy and Culture 3
Creative Arts 3
American History 6
Government-Political Science 6
Social and Behavioral Sciences 3
Component Area Option 3
Total Credit Hours 42

General Engineering Requirements

Students seeking the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must complete the following 22 semester credit hours:

CHE 1103General Chemistry I3
EGR 2323Applied Engineering Analysis I3
MAT 1214Calculus I4
MAT 1224Calculus II4
or EGR 1324 Calculus II for Engineers
PHY 1943
PHY 1951
Physics for Scientists and Engineers I
and Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory
4
PHY 1963
PHY 1971
Physics for Scientists and Engineers II
and Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory
4
Total Credit Hours22

Gateway Courses

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must successfully complete each of the following Gateway Courses with a grade of “C-” or better in no more than two attempts. A student who is unable to successfully complete these courses within two attempts, including dropping a course with a grade of “W” or taking an equivalent course at another institution, will be required to change his or her major.

EGR 2103Statics
EGR 2323Applied Engineering Analysis I
EGR 2513Dynamics
MAT 1214Calculus I

Degree Requirements

Students seeking the Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must complete the following semester credit hours, as well as the Core Curriculum requirements and General Engineering requirements:

A. Required foundation and general mechanical engineering courses:
EE 2213Electric Circuits and Electronics3
EGR 2103Statics3
EGR 2513Dynamics3
EGR 3323Applied Engineering Analysis II3
ME 1403Engineering Practice and Graphics3
ME 2173Numerical Methods3
ME 3113Measurements and Instrumentation3
ME 3241Materials Engineering Laboratory1
ME 3243Materials Engineering3
ME 3263Manufacturing Engineering3
ME 3293Thermodynamics I3
ME 3541Dynamics and Controls Laboratory1
ME 3543Dynamic Systems and Control3
ME 3663Fluid Mechanics3
ME 3813Mechanics of Solids3
ME 3823Machine Element Design 3
ME 4293Thermodynamics II3
ME 4312Thermal and Fluids Laboratory2
ME 4313Heat Transfer3
ME 4543Mechatronics3
ME 4801Manufacturing Practices Laboratory1
ME 4812Senior Design I2
ME 4813Senior Design II3
B. Mechanical Engineering elective courses
Select 9 semester credit hours of Mechanical Engineering elective courses. Students are encouraged to choose courses from a specific group listed below. Students may also select courses to partially satisfy the requirements of a certificate in one of the following areas: 1) Aerospace Engineering; 2) Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning; 3) Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering; or 4) Oil/Gas. For detailed requirements, see the Certificates section of the Mechanical Engineering program. 9
Aerospace
Mechanical Vibration
Compressible Flow and Propulsion Systems
Finite Element Analysis
Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (when topic is Aerodynamics)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (when topic is Propulsion)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (when topic is Astrodynamics)
Design and Control of Mechanical Systems
Mechanical Vibration
Mechanism Design
Automotive Vehicle Dynamics
Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design
Robotics
Energy, Thermal and Fluid Systems
Compressible Flow and Propulsion Systems
Thermal Systems Design
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Design
Alternative Energy Sources
Power Plant System Design
Internal Combustion Engines
Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning
Engineering Economic Analysis
Thermal Systems Design
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Design
Alternative Energy Sources
Power Plant System Design
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in HVAC Controls)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Refrigeration)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Indoor Air Quality)
Industrial and Manufacturing
Engineering Economic Analysis
Operations Research
Systems Modeling and Analysis
Lean Manufacturing and Enterprise Engineering
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
Facilities Planning and Design
Enterprise Process Engineering
Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design
Robotics
Mechanics and Materials
Intermediate Materials Engineering
Finite Element Analysis
Mechanical Engineering Applications to Biomedical Systems
Oil and Gas
Engineering Economic Analysis
Mechanical Vibration
Thermal Systems Design
Separation Processes
Alternative Energy Sources
Finite Element Analysis
Pressure Vessel and Piping Design
Oil and Gas Engineering and Reservoir Geomechanics
Corrosion Engineering
Additional engineering elective courses
Engineering Co-op 1
Honors Research 1
Python: Big Data in Engineering and Environmental Systems
High Performance Computing
Independent Study 1
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering 1
Graduate Courses in Mechanical Engineering 2
C. 3 semester credit hours of approved mathematics or basic science elective courses, selected from the following list:3
Contemporary Biology I
Contemporary Biology II
Biosciences I for Science Majors
Biology of Human Reproduction
General Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry I
Introduction to Environmental Science I
Life Through Time
Foundations of Mathematics
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Modern Physics
Classical Mechanics I
Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers
Applied Statistics
Total Credit Hours73
1

With prior approval, these courses may be used as a technical elective. 

2

 Graduate courses require approval. Forms are available from your academic advisor.

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering – Recommended Four-Year Academic Plan

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallCredit Hours
AIS 1243 AIS: Engineering, Mathematics, and Sciences 3
CHE 1103 General Chemistry I 3
MAT 1214 Calculus I (core and major) 4
ME 1403 Engineering Practice and Graphics 3
WRC 1013 Freshman Composition I (core) 3
 Credit Hours16
Spring
MAT 1224 Calculus II 4
PHY 1943 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I (core and major) 3
PHY 1951 Physics for Scientists and Engineers I Laboratory 1
POL 1013 Introduction to American Politics (core) 3
WRC 1023 Freshman Composition II (core) 3
American History (core) 3
 Credit Hours17
Second Year
Fall
EGR 2103 Statics 3
EGR 2323 Applied Engineering Analysis I 3
PHY 1963 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II (core and major) 3
PHY 1971 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II Laboratory 1
EGR 1403 Technical Communication (or other core option) 3
Math/Science Elective 3
 Credit Hours16
Spring
EE 2213 Electric Circuits and Electronics 3
EGR 2513 Dynamics 3
EGR 3323 Applied Engineering Analysis II 3
ME 3241 Materials Engineering Laboratory 1
ME 3243 Materials Engineering 3
ME 3293 Thermodynamics I 3
 Credit Hours16
Third Year
Fall
ME 2173 Numerical Methods 3
ME 3113 Measurements and Instrumentation 3
ME 3663 Fluid Mechanics 3
ME 3813 Mechanics of Solids 3
ME 4293 Thermodynamics II 3
Language, Philosophy & Culture (core) 3
 Credit Hours18
Spring
ME 3263 Manufacturing Engineering 3
ME 3541 Dynamics and Controls Laboratory 1
ME 3543 Dynamic Systems and Control 3
ME 3823 Machine Element Design 3
ME 4313 Heat Transfer 3
Creative Arts (core) 3
 Credit Hours16
Fourth Year
Fall
ME 4312 Thermal and Fluids Laboratory 2
ME 4543 Mechatronics 3
ME 4801 Manufacturing Practices Laboratory 1
ME 4812 Senior Design I 2
POL 1133
Texas Politics and Society (core)
or Civil Rights in Texas and America
3
ME Technical elective 3
 Credit Hours14
Spring
ME 4813 Senior Design II 3
ME Technical elective 3
ME Technical elective 3
American History (core) 3
Social and Behavioral Sciences (core) 3
 Credit Hours15
 Total Credit Hours128

Certificate in Aerospace Engineering

The Certificate in Aerospace Engineering is designed to prepare degree-seeking students or degree holders in mechanical engineering or related fields with the fundamental engineering knowledge necessary for successful careers in the aerospace industry. It certifies to employers that students awarded the certificate have completed coursework essential to successful in entry-level positions in aerospace.

Eligibility requirements:

Students pursuing an Aerospace Engineering certificate must complete 15 semester credit hours as follows:

A. Required courses:3
Fluid Mechanics
B. ME electives. A minimum of three courses (9 semester credit hours) selected from the following list:9-12
Compressible Flow and Propulsion Systems
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Aerodynamics)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Propulsion)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Astrodynamics)
C. Additional electives. If only three courses are selected from list B, then an additional 3 semester credit hours must be completed from the following list:0-3
Mechanical Vibration
Finite Element Analysis
Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design
Total Credit Hours15

Certificate in Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning

The Certificate in Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) is designed to prepare degree-seeking students or degree holders in mechanical engineering or related fields with the fundamental engineering knowledge necessary for successful careers in the design, manufacture, selection, and/or installation of mechanical equipment which controls the built environment. It certifies to employers that students awarded the certificate have completed coursework essential to success in entry-level positions in HVAC related fields.

Eligibility requirements:

Students pursuing a HVAC certificate must complete 15 semester credit hours as follows:

A. Required courses:3
Heat Transfer
B. ME electives. A minimum of three courses (9 semester credit hours) selected from the following list:9-12
Thermal Systems Design
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Design
Power Plant System Design
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in HVAC Controls)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Refrigeration)
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS in Indoor Air Quality)
C. Additional electives. If only three courses are selected from list B, then an additional 3 semester credit hours must be completed from the following list:0-3
Engineering Economic Analysis
Alternative Energy Sources
Total Credit Hours15

Certificate in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

The Certificate in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering is designed to prepare degree-seeking students or degree holders in mechanical engineering or related fields with the fundamental engineering knowledge necessary for successful careers in the manufacturing industry. It certifies to employers that students awarded the certificate have completed coursework essential to success in entry-level engineering positions in manufacturing. 

Eligibility requirements:

Students pursuing an Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering certificate must complete 15 semester credit hours as follows:

A. Required courses:3
Manufacturing Engineering
B. ME electives. A minimum of three courses (9 semester credit hours) selected from the following list:9-12
Operations Research
Lean Manufacturing and Enterprise Engineering
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
Facilities Planning and Design
Enterprise Process Engineering
Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design
Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering (SS Advanced Medical Device Design and Commercialization)
C. Additional electives. If only three courses are selected from list B, then an additional 3 semester credit hours must be completed from the following list:0-3
Engineering Economic Analysis
Systems Modeling and Analysis
Robotics
Total Credit Hours15

Certificate in Oil/Gas

The Certificate in Oil/Gas is designed to prepare mechanical engineering degree-seeking students and non-degree-seeking students with mechanical engineering background with the fundamental engineering knowledge necessary for successful careers in Oil/Gas Industry. It certifies to employers that students awarded the certificate have completed coursework essential to Oil/Gas industry.

Eligibility requirements:

Students pursuing an Oil/Gas certificate must complete 15 semester credit hours as follows:

A. Required courses:3
Machine Element Design 1
B. ME electives. A minimum of three courses (9 semester credit hours) selected from the following list:9-12
Mechanical Vibration
Thermal Systems Design
Separation Processes
Alternative Energy Sources
Finite Element Analysis
Pressure Vessel and Piping Design
Oil and Gas Engineering and Reservoir Geomechanics
Corrosion Engineering
C. Additional electives. If only three courses are selected from list B, then an additional 3 semester credit hours must be completed from the following list:0-3
Engineering Economic Analysis
Finite Element Analysis
Total Credit Hours15
1

Those students who have transferred equivalent required and elective courses, as listed above, from other institutions may complete the certificate program by taking 15 semester credit hours of ME courses listed above. 

To earn any certificate in the mechanical engineering program, students must satisfy the following requirements:

  1. Complete all the requirements of the certificate program.
  2. Receive a grade of “C-” or better in each course used to satisfy the requirements of the certificate program.
  3. Achieve at least a 2.5 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) in all courses used to satisfy the requirements of the certificate program.

Undergraduates who are currently enrolled in the baccalaureate degree program in mechanical engineering or enrolled as non-degree-seeking students and who wish to earn an undergraduate certificate offered by the mechanical engineering program are eligible to  enroll in the certificate program, provided they satisfy the course prerequisite requirements.   

Students not currently admitted to UTSA who wish to earn an undergraduate certificate offered by the mechanical engineering program will be required to apply for admission to UTSA as special (non-degree-seeking) students at the undergraduate level, and indicate in the application process their desire to pursue the requirements for specific undergraduate certificate program. Applicants will be required to meet University admission requirements for special students at the undergraduate level.

Students who are pursuing a certificate as non-degree-seeking students will not be eligible for financial aid or Veterans Administration educational benefits.

Graduate students may enroll in the undergraduate certificate programs, provided they meet the requirements for enrollment in the certificate program.

During the last semester in the certificate program, students must submit an application for the Undergraduate Certificate to the Office of the Registrar.

Mechanical Engineering (ME) Courses

ME 1403. Engineering Practice and Graphics. (2-3) 3 Credit Hours. (TCCN = ENGR 1304)

Prerequisites: MAT 1093 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in WRC 1013. Introduction to engineering practice and engineering graphics: geometric constructions, multi-view drawing, dimensioning, sections, pictorials and auxiliary views. Computer-aided design, generation of mechanical drawings, and design projects. (Formerly ME 1402. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 1402 and ME 1403.) Course Fees: LRE1 $25; STSE $30.

ME 2173. Numerical Methods. (2-3) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: EGR 2323. Introduction to numerical algorithms to solve science and engineering problems. Construction and derivation of numerical algorithm as well as application limits. Various numerical approaches in finding roots of linear and non-linear functions, regression analysis, interpolation, curve fitting procedures, differentiation, integration, solutions of system of linear algebraic equations, solutions of ordinary differential equations and boundary value problems. Introduction to structured programming (MATLAB), including error estimation, and stability. (Formerly ME 3173. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3173 and ME 2173.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Course Fees: LRE1 $25; STSE $30; DL01 $75.

ME 3113. Measurements and Instrumentation. (2-3) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EE 2213, EGR 2513, PHY 1951, and PHY 1971. Fundamentals of measurement systems theory and laboratory practice. Descriptive statistics, probability distributions, error, uncertainty analysis, technical report writing, and data acquisition. Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course Fees: L001 $30; DL01 $75.

ME 3183. Python: Big Data in Engineering and Environmental Systems. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 2173. Introduction to Python as a programming language and to several modules of Python specific to scientific computing. Understanding physical principles of engineering systems from data using Python platform. The course introduces scientific data analysis including statistical analysis of stochastic processes and numerical methods for big data. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 3241. Materials Engineering Laboratory. (0-3) 1 Credit Hour.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in or completion of ME 3243. Investigation of the mechanical properties of engineering materials, with emphasis on metals, sample preparation, and metallography. (Formerly ME 3244. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3244 and ME 3241.) Differential Tuition: $55. Course Fee: L001 $30.

ME 3243. Materials Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: CHE 1103, EGR 2103, and concurrent enrollment in or completion of ME 3241. Fundamentals in atomic structure, microstructures, properties, and mechanical behavior of engineering materials, such as metals, polymers, and ceramics. (Formerly ME 3244. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3244 or ME 3243 and ME 3241. Prior completion of ME 3244 can be substituted for ME 3243 and ME 3241.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 3263. Manufacturing Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2513, ME 3241, and ME 3243 (or ME 3244 in previous catalogs). Manufacturing processes, quality assurance, statistical methods, economic analysis, planning, and communication. (Formerly titled "Materials Processing.") Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 3273. Operations Research. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 2173. Introduction to fundamental optimization models and solution methods, including linear programs, the simplex method, duality theory, sensitivity analysis, integer programs, and network flows. Focus on formulating and solving practical operations research problems and the use of optimization software. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 3293. Thermodynamics I. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2103 and MAT 1224. Heat, work, equations of state, thermodynamics systems, control volume, first and second laws of thermodynamics, applications of the laws of thermodynamics, reversible and irreversible processes, and introduction to basic thermodynamic cycles. (Same as CME 2503. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3293 and CME 2503.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 3323. Mechanical Vibration. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2323 and EGR 2513. Free and forced vibrations, single and multiple degree of freedom systems, damping, matrix methods, time-domain and frequency-domain. Applications in the transmission and control of vibration. Generally offered: Spring. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 3513. Mechanism Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2513 and ME 1403. Introduction to mechanisms, graphical and linear analytical methods for kinematic synthesis of mechanisms; design of cam follower; gearing fundamentals, ordinary and planetary gear trains; and computer-aided design projects. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 3541. Dynamics and Controls Laboratory. (0-2) 1 Credit Hour.

Prerequisites: ME 3113 and concurrent enrollment in or completion of ME 3543. Investigation of the dynamics and control of physical systems. (Formerly ME 4733. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 4733 and ME 3541.) Differential Tuition: $55.

ME 3543. Dynamic Systems and Control. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2513 and EGR 3323, and concurrent enrollment in or completion of ME 3113. Introduction to modeling and control of dynamic physical systems, analysis and design of control systems for mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, fluid, and thermal systems. (Formerly ME 4522 and ME 4523. Credit cannot be earned for more than one of the following: ME 3543, ME 4522, or ME 4523.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 3663. Fluid Mechanics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2323, EGR 2513, and completion of or concurrent enrollment in ME 3293. Fluid properties, fluid statics, integral and differential analysis of fluid flow, viscous laminar and turbulent flow in conduits, dimensional analysis, boundary layer concepts, drag and lift. Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 3813. Mechanics of Solids. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2103 and MAT 1224. Internal forces and deformations in solids, stress, strain and their relations, torsion, stresses and deflections in beams, and elastic behavior of columns. (Same as CE 3103. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3813 and CE 3103.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 3823. Machine Element Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 1403, ME 3241, ME 3243 (or ME 3244 in previous catalogs), and ME 3813. Introduction to design of machine elements, materials selection, static and fatigue failures, shafts, fasteners, springs, gears, bearings and design projects. (Formerly ME 4423. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3823 and ME 4423.) Generally offered: Fall, Spring, Summer. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 4173. High Performance Computing. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 2173. Introduction to UNIX (login, shell scripts, editors, file permissions), visualization (software tools, data formats), Parallel programming (numerical libraries, Message Passing Interface, Trilinos, GPGPU programming). Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4183. Compressible Flow and Propulsion Systems. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3293 and ME 3663. Analysis of one-dimensional steady compressible flow, isentropic flow, compressible boundary layers, transition from subsonic to supersonic flow, Fanno and Rayleigh flow, supersonic nozzle design, normal and oblique shock waves, and expansion fans. (Formerly EGR 4183. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 4183 and EGR 4183.) Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4243. Intermediate Materials Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3241, ME 3243 (or ME 3244 in previous catalogs), and ME 3813. Selected topics in fabrication and processing of materials; macroscopic and microscopic aspects of the mechanical behavior of metals, ceramics, polymers and composites; Failure mode analysis in materials; optimization of material selection in the design process. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4273. Systems Modeling and Analysis. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 2173 and ME 3113. Systems analysis approach to formulating and solving engineering problems. Topics include mathematical modeling, discrete event simulation, and decision analysis. Focus on applying systems modeling methods on practical industrial problems and the use of simulation software. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4293. Thermodynamics II. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3293. Energy and (availability) analysis, reactive and nonreactive mixtures, moist air properties, psychometric systems and analysis, vapor and gas power cycles, refrigeration and heat-pump cycles, and thermodynamic relations. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4312. Thermal and Fluids Laboratory. (0-4) 2 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3113, ME 4293, and concurrent enrollment in or completion of ME 4313. Investigation of thermal and fluid physical systems, and design of experiments. (Formerly ME 4733. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 4733 and ME 4312.) Differential Tuition: $110.

ME 4313. Heat Transfer. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 3323, ME 2173, ME 3293, and ME 3663. Generalized potential distribution and gradients, and heat transfer, including transient and steady state conduction, forced and free convection, radiation, and heat exchanger analysis. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4323. Thermal Systems Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 4313. Application of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and computer methods to the design of thermal energy systems. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4343. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 4293. Moist air properties, human comfort, solar radiation, heating/cooling loads, design selection, operation of air conditioning equipment, and duct design. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4373. Separation Processes. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 4293. Rate- and equilibrium-controlled separation, mass transfer, phase equilibrium, distillation, and extraction. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4503. Lean Manufacturing and Enterprise Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3263. Concepts and applications of Lean Systems applied to manufacturing and non-manufacturing environments. Topics include lean fundamentals and various tools and methodologies for transformation of companies and organizations into globally competitive enterprises. Team project on Value Streaming Mapping analysis of processes in real settings is required. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4543. Mechatronics. (2-3) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3113. Modeling and analysis of electrical (resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors, operational amplifiers, combinational logic and sequential logic) and mechanical systems (spring mass damper), data acquisition and measurements, sensors, actuators, and micro-controller programming. A lab component with emphasis on building electrical circuits, data acquisition using LabVIEW, and integration of sensors, actuators, and micro-controller programming (Arduino) to create a mechatronics system. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165. Course Fees: L001 $30; DL01 $75.

ME 4553. Automotive Vehicle Dynamics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2323 and EGR 2513. Dynamics and control of automotive systems, handling, tires, suspension, steering, and aerodynamic forces. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4563. Computer Integrated Manufacturing. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3263. Fundamental concepts and models related to computer-aided design, computer-aided process planning, computer-aided manufacturing, production planning and scheduling, and manufacturing execution systems. Laboratory work includes computer-aided applications and programming of automated production equipment. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4573. Facilities Planning and Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3263. Product, process, and schedule design, flow, space, and activity relationships, material handling, layout planning models and design algorithms, and warehouse operations. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4583. Enterprise Process Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3263. Fundamental concepts, methodologies, and tools for the design, engineering and continuous improvement of enterprises. Topics include Six Sigma for process design and improvement, lean manufacturing fundamentals, value-stream mapping, performance evaluation, and other contemporary enterprise process engineering approaches. Generally offered: Fall. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 4593. Alternative Energy Sources. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 2173, ME 3113, ME 3663, and ME 4293. Nuclear, geothermal, solar, biomass, wind, and hydrogen energy sources. Resources, production, utilization, economics, sustainability, and environmental considerations. (Formerly ME 3593. Credit cannot be earned for both ME 3593 and ME 4593.) Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4603. Finite Element Analysis. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 3323, ME 2173, and ME 3823. Finite element method fundamentals, advanced geometric modeling of mechanical components and systems, and finite element modeling of components. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4613. Power Plant System Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 4293. Application of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to the design of vapor and gas-turbine power plant systems including boilers, condensers, turbines, pumps, compressors, and cooling towers. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4623. Internal Combustion Engines. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 4293. Application of thermodynamic cycles in design, analysis, and modeling of internal combustion engines including spark-ignition and compression-ignition cycles, thermochemistry, fuels, combustion, emissions, and pollution. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4643. Pressure Vessel and Piping Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3663 and ME 3813. ASME Section XIII Boiler and Pressure Vessel code, inspection, maintenance, repair, and modification of pressure vessels. Piping design and construction. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4653. Oil and Gas Engineering and Reservoir Geomechanics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3663 and ME 3813. Introduction to the oil and gas industry, Measurement; deformation mechanisms in rock; rock fracture description and analysis; wellbore stresses and failure; wellbore stability analysis; fault stability analysis; depletion-induced reservoir deformation; and hydraulic fracturing. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4683. Corrosion Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3241 and ME 3243 (or ME 3244 in previous catalogs). Principles of electrochemistry, fundamentals of the environmental degradation of materials, corrosion thermodynamics and kinetics, corrosion phenomenology, and corrosion control and prevention. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 4723. Reliability and Quality Control in Engineering Design. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: ME 3113. Introduction to statistical methods in reliability and probabilistic engineering design methodology, statistical quality control and inspection, life prediction and testing, and design optimization. Generally offered: Fall. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 4773. Robotics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2513 and ME 2173. Kinematics, dynamics, planning and control of mobile robots and manipulators. Special topics may include legged robots, soft robots, climbing robots, advanced control methods, image processing, computer vision, estimation. A LEGO-based laboratory with emphasis on prototyping robotic systems for practical applications. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4801. Manufacturing Practices Laboratory. (0-2) 1 Credit Hour.

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in, or completion of, ME 3263. Use of measurement tools, saw, drill, mill, lathe, and welder. Differential Tuition: $55.

ME 4812. Senior Design I. (2-0) 2 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3113, ME 3263, ME 3543, ME 3663, ME 3823, and ME 4293; completion of or concurrent enrollment in ME 4313, ME 4543 (or ME 3513 in previous catalogs), ME 4801, and ME 4312 required. Design project proposals, computer-aided synthesis, analysis, and modeling of an open-ended problem development and presentation of conceptual designs. Industrial cooperation is encouraged. This course, as well as ME 4313, ME 4543, ME 4801, and ME 3541, must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better to serve as prerequisites for ME 4813. (Formerly ME 4811 and ME 4803. Credit cannot be earned for more than one of the following: ME 4812, ME 4803, or ME 4811.) Differential Tuition: $110. Course fee: DL01 $50.

ME 4813. Senior Design II. (2-3) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: ME 3541, ME 4312, ME 4313, ME 4543, ME 4801, and ME 4812. Development of a working design of an instructor-approved design project using computer-aided synthesis, analysis, modeling, and optimization methods. Industrial cooperation encouraged. Considerations of safety, reliability, environmental, and economic constraints, and ethical and social impacts. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165. Course Fees: L001 $30; DL01 $75.

ME 4911. Independent Study. (0-0) 1 Credit Hour.

Prerequisite: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the Department Chair, and Dean of the College. Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Differential Tuition: $55.

ME 4913. Independent Study. (0-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Permission in writing (form available) from the instructor, the Department Chair, and Dean of the College. Independent reading, research, discussion, and/or writing under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit, but not more than 6 semester credit hours of independent study, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Differential Tuition: $165.

ME 4953. Special Studies in Mechanical Engineering. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Will depend on the topic. An organized course offering the opportunity for specialized study not normally or not often available as part of the regular course offerings. Special Studies may be repeated for credit when topics vary, but not more than 9 semester credit hours, regardless of discipline, will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Generally offered: Fall, Spring. Differential Tuition: $165. Course fee: DL01 $75.

ME 4963. Mechanical Engineering Applications to Biomedical Systems. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisites: EGR 2513, ME 3663, and ME 3813. Applications of dynamics, solid mechanics and fluid mechanics to biomedical systems. (Formerly titled Bioengineering.) Differential Tuition: $165.