COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology follows a structured five-year curriculum that combines strong foundational coursework in mathematics, physics, and engineering sciences with extensive hands-on laboratories, electives, and multiple co-op experiences to prepare students for professional engineering practice. In the first year, students focus on core fundamentals such as Calculus I and II, Engineering Mechanics Laboratory, Engineering Design Tools, Statics, and introductory programming for engineers, along with general education requirements that develop communication, ethical reasoning, and artistic and global perspectives. The second year builds deeper engineering knowledge through courses in Multivariable Calculus, Thermodynamics, Strength of Materials, Dynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Circuits, and Engineering Measurements Laboratory, along with co-op preparation and general education coursework. In the third year, students begin their first cooperative education experiences while continuing advanced technical studies such as Materials Science, System Dynamics, University Physics II, and Boundary Value Problems, which strengthen their analytical and problem-solving abilities. The fourth year includes advanced engineering applications such as Heat Transfer, Linear Algebra, Engineering Applications Laboratory, and both extended core and applied electives, allowing students to tailor their learning toward specific interests. The fifth and final year culminates in a multidisciplinary senior design project sequence, Applied Statistics, additional electives, and general education immersion courses, integrating all prior knowledge into a comprehensive engineering solution. Throughout the program at Rochester Institute of Technology, students complete multiple co-op rotations that provide real-world industry experience with leading engineering employers, ensuring they graduate with both strong theoretical understanding and practical, job-ready skills in mechanical engineering.