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What classes were you required to take in college to become a mechanical engineer?
I'm working on becoming a mechanical engineer but I just want to know what I'm in for before I enroll in a college. #engineer #mechanical-engineering #engineering #college-major #college
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4 answers
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Tyler’s Answer
The core classics are Physics, lots of Calculus/Differential Equations, Structural/Dynamics Classes, Design of Machines, Materials, Fluids, Thermals, etc. You will also take introductory classes into other disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, etc.
There will also be several electives both in and outside of your major. These are where you can focus more on a particular area (CFD, FEA, Thermals, Aerospace, etc.) or get a broader view of adjacent disciplines (Nuclear, Electrical, Bio, etc.)
There will also be several electives both in and outside of your major. These are where you can focus more on a particular area (CFD, FEA, Thermals, Aerospace, etc.) or get a broader view of adjacent disciplines (Nuclear, Electrical, Bio, etc.)
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Peter’s Answer
This is not an exhaustive list but I had to take the following:
6 math classes including linear algebra and differential equations
3 chemistry classes
3 physics classes
1 CAD drafting class
1 strength of materials
2 thermodynamics classes
1 fluid dynamics
6 math classes including linear algebra and differential equations
3 chemistry classes
3 physics classes
1 CAD drafting class
1 strength of materials
2 thermodynamics classes
1 fluid dynamics
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Lera
Most helpful answer I've gotten so far
Lera
Updated
Aaron’s Answer
Most schools will have similar classes around math and physics such
Math: all the calculus classes, linear algebra, differential equations
Physics: All the science major beginning physics (physics 1,2,3 plus lab); strength and materials; statics
Math: all the calculus classes, linear algebra, differential equations
Physics: All the science major beginning physics (physics 1,2,3 plus lab); strength and materials; statics
Thanks! now I just have to get textbooks
Lera
For textbooks, you'll be surprised how many you can find for free online. I would always make sure you have the actual list the professor wants. Unfortunately professors often add extra books they don't actually intend to use but just think "would be nice if you had." You can always email your professor or try to wait until the first day of class and see what people actually got. A few times, a student found the book (digital) online for free and I went back to the bookstore to return my hard copy.
Aaron Escamilla
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Engineering schools will likely post their 4-year course curriculum online. All engineering disciplines have a foundational level of algebra, physics, and some computer programming. Mechanical engineering builds on that with thermodynamics, fluids, and structures classes.