Program Objective and Outcomes
The Mechanical Engineering program at Cal Maritime offers a unique educational approach by combining hands-on experiences and math and science-intensive coursework. The mission of the program is to produce entry-level professionals capable of applying their knowledge of science and engineering in the design, analysis, operation, and production of engineering components, systems, and products. Students can choose one of three options under Mechanical Engineering program. The Energy Design and Mechanical Design options are for those interested in traditional engineering careers. The U.S. Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer License Option is for those seeking engineering careers in the maritime industry, both at sea and on land.
The Mechanical Engineering program provides a sound foundation for the practice of engineering through instruction in basic sciences and mathematics, computer applications, design, laboratory experiences, communication, humanities, and social sciences. All students, regardless of option, start with the same first year experience, which includes fundmental math, science, communications, and critical thinking courses. In addition, students are trained on how to be an engineering cadet aboard Training Ship Golden Bear, before embarking on a 60+ day Summer Sea Term. Computer applications and design experiences are integrated into several required and stem-elective courses. Excellent facilities in circuits, instrumentation and measurements, electromechanical machinery, controls, materials/mechanical, manufacturing processes, and fluids/thermal laboratories further strengthen the instructional Mechanical Engineering program. Through selection of electives, students can choose to specialize in several different areas. The entire experience is incorporated into a two-semester senior capstone experience.
The mission of the Mechanical Engineering program is to produce graduates capable of applying their knowledge of science and engineering in the design, analysis, evaluation, and production of engineering devices and systems. The academic foundation provided to each graduate allows for further education and professional development going forward.
The Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and Mechancial Engineering Program Criteria.
Mechanical Engineering Program Educational Objectives
Mechanical engineering graduates of Cal Maritime working in the engineering profession will:
A. Be well educated professionals who utilize their intellectual learning, applied technology experience, leadership skills and global awareness in successful careers, and continue to improve their skills through lifelong learning and advanced studies;
B. Effectively practice as professional engineers, managers, and leaders in the maritime and energy industries and a wide variety other fields, and as licensed engineers in the merchant marine;
C. Successfully combine fundamental engineering knowledge, core leadership skills and the practical experience gained at the Academy to turn ideas into reality for the benefit of society;
D. Be influential members of multidisciplinary teams, creatively and effectively contributing to the design, development, and objective evaluation of engineering components, systems, and products;
E. Personally assume and actively encourage peers to uphold the professional, ethical, social and environmental responsibilities as well as the safety practices of their profession;
F. Demonstrate professional and effective communication skills to varying audiences, including colleagues, customers, and the general public.
Mechanical Engineering Program Outcomes
All graduates receiving a BSME degree from Cal Maritime are expected to have:
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
- 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
- an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- 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
- 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
- an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.