Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Mechanical Engineering (Concentration in Nuclear Engineering)] From Virginia Commonwealth University

In addition, mechanical engineers design and analyze the energy sources that provide power to machines, fluids that interact with machines and the materials from which machines are constructed. Mechanical engineers also work in cutting-edge fields such as nanotechnology, alternative energy sources and environmentally friendly "green" manufacturing processes. Another important application of mechanical engineering is in medicine, where artificial organs, surgical tools and drug-delivery systems are vital to human well-being.

Mechanical engineers are in continuous demand by virtually all industries and are also employed by state and federal governments and enjoy one of the highest starting salaries of all college majors. Mechanical engineering graduates can, if they wish, continue their studies and obtain advanced degrees in fields such as business, law, medicine and engineering.

The VCU Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering is the largest in the School of Engineering and offers an accredited B.S. degree in mechanical engineering, including the option of obtaining a major concentration nuclear engineering. The curriculum for the freshman year is the same with or without the nuclear concentration. Entry into the nuclear engineering concentration requires departmental approval via the change of major process. Most students will complete the change of major process as they begin taking nuclear engineering courses in their sophomore year.

Learning outcomes:

• Apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering

• Design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data

• Design a system, component or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability and sustainability

• Function on multidisciplinary teams

• Identify, formulate and solve engineering problems

• Gain an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility

• Communicate effectively

• Complete the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental and societal context

• Recognize the need for, and an ability to engage in, lifelong learning

• Gain knowledge of contemporary issues

• Use the techniques, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice