This course introduces fundamental concepts of engineering materials and their role in design. Students study materials selection based on functional requirements and economic, ethical, environmental, and global considerations. Emphasis is placed on relationships between structure, processing, properties, and performance for metals, polymers, ceramics, and composite materials. The course also addresses material property, modification and degradation mechanisms, and interpretation of key materials diagrams.

This laboratory course introduces methods for characterizing engineering materials. Students conduct experiments to measure mechanical and physical properties, relate processing to structure and performance, and apply relevant ASTM standards. Emphasis is placed on accurate data collection, analysis, and professional communication through written reports and oral presentations. Teamwork and critical thinking are integral components of this laboratory experience.

This course allows an upper-class mechanical engineering technology student the opportunity to independently investigate, under faculty supervision, aspects of the mechanical engineering field. Proposals for an independent study must be approved by the sponsoring faculty and the MMET department chair. Students are limited to a maximum of three semester credit hours of independent study projects and two sections in any semester, and a maximum of six semester credit hours of independent study used to fulfill degree requirements.

Faculty directed study of appropriate topics on a tutorial basis. This course is generally used to allow an individual to pursue topics in depth under faculty sponsorship.