COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical Engineering at The University of Alabama is a comprehensive and technically rigorous program requiring a total of 127 credit hours, combining general education, major coursework, and ancillary science and mathematics requirements to prepare students for modern engineering challenges. The major coursework, totaling 74 credit hours, builds a strong foundation in core engineering principles through early courses like statics, mechanics of materials, and engineering graphics, followed by specialized metallurgical subjects such as process calculations, thermodynamics of materials, physical metallurgy, transport phenomena, and materials synthesis and processing. Students also gain practical, hands-on experience through laboratory courses and advanced topics like metal casting, chemical metallurgy, mechanical behavior of materials, and analytical methods, culminating in design-focused courses that develop problem-solving and engineering design skills relevant to real-world applications. A significant component of the program is the inclusion of 15 credit hours of technical electives, allowing students to tailor their education toward specific interests such as advanced materials, manufacturing, electronics, or applied mathematics, enhancing flexibility and career readiness. The ancillary coursework, comprising 31 credit hours, ensures a solid grounding in fundamental sciences and mathematics, including general chemistry, calculus I–III, differential equations, and calculus-based physics, which are essential for understanding material behavior and engineering systems. Throughout the program, emphasis is placed not only on technical expertise but also on analytical thinking, innovation, and the application of engineering solutions in societal and global contexts. Overall, this degree equips students with the multidisciplinary knowledge and practical skills needed for careers in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and materials development, as well as for pursuing advanced studies in materials science and engineering.