Department of Mechanical Engineering

Kirsten H. Dodson, Assistant Professor and Chair
A. Fort Gwinn, Professor and Associate Dean
Richard E. Gregory, Professor
M. David Collao, Assistant Professor

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is responsible for the Bachelor of Science degree program in mechanical engineering. Mechanical engineering provides a program of study covering a wide range of topics in thermal and mechanical systems that prepares students for a wide range of engineering careers in industry. Lipscomb’s Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

During the first two years, students are given a broad education in engineering topics along with the basic mathematics and sciences that are foundational to the study of engineering. Starting in the junior year, the curriculum includes more intense engineering analysis courses with an emphasis on the relationship between analytical techniques and the engineering design process. Students in their senior year pursue more specific interests by studying two traditional areas of design in mechanical engineering: mechanical systems and thermal-fluid systems along with two in-depth elective courses.

Of equal importance with engineering analysis is engineering design. The curriculum contains a “design spine” that extends through each academic year. In each year, students have the opportunity to practice open-ended and hands-on engineering design while learning to work effectively in a team. This culminates in the senior year capstone design course sequence. In these two-courses taken during the senior year, students are allowed to fully explore the “art” of engineering design in interdisciplinary teams given the task of designing and producing a product that will meet a set of pre-defined requirements.

Distinctives of the Mechanical Engineering Department

Whether developing more fuel-efficient automobiles, designing robotic medical systems or helping to put an astronaut on Mars, mechanical engineers will play a critical role in maintaining our place in the world economy. The faculty in the Department of Mechanical Engineering have the academic and practical experience to provide our students with the necessary knowledge and experience to be successful.

While at Lipscomb University, mechanical engineering students have the opportunity to participate in numerous extracurricular activities through annual engineering mission trips, the student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Automotive Engineers BAJA SAE student design competition. Students are also encouraged to seek engineering internship opportunities in industry during the summers. Faculty members assist students in finding and securing engineering internships whenever possible.

Program Educational Objectives

The educational objectives of the college of engineering and the mechanical engineering program at Lipscomb University are to produce graduates who will be successful in:

The practice of engineering as:

maturing professionals employed in industrial, governmental, educational or consulting positions with ever increasing responsibilities and influence;
being recognized as individuals whose interaction with their employers, coworkers and neighbors is characterized as considerate, moral and ethical;

The acquisition of new knowledge and skills by:

pursuing advanced degrees in engineering or related fields;
actively participating in ongoing professional development;
refining and adapting their fundamental skills to keep pace with a rapidly changing environment;

The application of their talents to serving others by:

being actively engaged in programs and initiatives which leverage their engineering competence and other skills in ways beneficial to their community, their church, their profession and society as a whole.

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities for those with a mechanical engineering degree are numerous and include careers in areas such as:

Aerospace
Automotive
Robotics
Defense
Energy systems development and design
Renewable energy systems
Machine design
Government and private research
Consulting
Manufacturing

A mechanical engineering degree also provides a solid foundation on which to continue learning. In addition to pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in their field, mechanical engineering graduates are exceptionally good candidates for advanced degrees in the areas of business, law and medicine.

Program of Study Requirements

Major

Mechanical Engineering, B.S.