Earn Your Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) Degree
Mechanical engineers have a direct impact on everyday life. Through the application of science and mathematics principles, mechanical engineers design innovative and economical solutions to problems that affect modern society. You can find your purpose in this field with the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree program at Grand Canyon University. Developed with industry guidance, this BSME program walks students through the full lifecycle of a mechanical engineering project.
GCU’s College of Science, Engineering and Technology offers this BSME degree program for students who are exceptional problem solvers and critical thinkers. It blends a multidisciplinary range of STEM subjects, including computer programming, mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics. Students are introduced to core business principles and methodologies to further enhance their career qualifications.
Study Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science Curriculum
Explore the analysis, design, use and manufacture of mechanical devices as you learn from fully qualified and engaging instructors, and benefit from the diverse perspectives of your peers. Improve your communication skills as you work in collaborative team settings to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. There is an emphasis on the role of servant leadership and ethics. As a private Christian school, GCU seeks to deliver a modern curriculum that instills the principles of faith and the glorification of God.
In courses including Structure and Property of Materials, Engineering Project Management and Principles of Mechanical Design I and II, students will develop a mastery of the following topic areas:
- The selection and design of machine elements based on the theories and methods of statics, dynamics and strength of materials
- The principles, tools, techniques and best practices for engineering project management across major methodologies
- The properties and structures of materials in terms of their actual atomic or molecular structure
- The principles of thermodynamics, including the properties of ideal gases and water vapors, basic gas cycles, refrigeration, entropy and reacting mixtures
- The fundamentals of manufacturing techniques, including casting, molding, forming, machining, welding and joining
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree program is a carefully designed blend of classroom instruction, hands-on experimentation and self-study. Students have the opportunity to complete the Capstone Project I and II, in which they work in teams to design projects in areas of their interest. Students apply real-world research to develop project proposals and feasibility studies.
Explore Careers in Mechanical Engineering with a BSME Degree
From small components like microscale sensors to major systems like spacecraft, mechanical engineers are at the heart of scientific accomplishments and industrial innovations. With their knowledge of analysis, design, manufacture and operational processes, mechanical engineers can make everyday life safer and better. The BS in mechanical engineering degree is a versatile choice that can enhance a graduate’s career trajectory.
Mechanical engineers work in many settings, including manufacturing plants, architectural engineering firms and machinery manufacturing. A diverse range of industries employ mechanical engineers, such as the biotechnology, automotive, energy and nanotechnology industries. Some specific jobs that may be related to this degree include:
- Industrial engineering
- Systems engineering
- Design engineering
- Project engineering
- Engineering sales
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for mechanical engineers from 2016 through 2026 is expected to be nine percent.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, crosscultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Required General Education Courses
Course Description
This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-113 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of density, classification of chemical reactions, the gas laws, determination of enthalpy change using calorimetry, and determination of empirical formula. Co-Requisite: CHM-113.
Course Description
This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with an applied emphasis; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; vectors and complex numbers. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their application to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course will enhance student skills in working with others, communication, project management, self-discipline, and creativity. The TIE is an inquiry-based learning course and lab that integrates multiple academic disciplines to develop and demonstrate a student's critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will have the opportunity to examine and work on real world problems. The team project selected will be managed like a business and/or research project; objectives will be set and teams will develop strategies and action plans. Training modules will be conducted for understanding of hypothesis-based research, business and work processes, team effectiveness skills, team diversity, learning style differences, and effective oral and written communications. Co-requisite: STG-110L
Course Description
This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in STG-110. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on teamwork and cross-disciplinary problem solving. Co-requisite: STG-110.
Course Description
This course provides an insight into professional communications and conduct associated with careers in science, engineering and technology. Students learn about the changing modes of communication in these disciplines recognizing the advances in digital communications. They gain practical experience in developing and supporting a thesis or position in written, oral and visual presentations. Students will explore concepts and issues in professional ethics and conduct such as privacy, discrimination, workplace etiquette, cyber-ethics, network and data security, identity theft, ownership rights and intellectual property. This is a writing intensive course.
Course Description
This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.
Course Description
This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.
Program Core Courses
Course Description
This is the second course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing fundamentals and applications of nuclear chemistry and organic chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of elementary calculus and its application to real-world problems. Topics include differentiation, optimization, and integration. Software is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-261.
Course Description
This course provides students with the basic concepts of programming. Students will solve engineering problems by designing and modularizing solutions with proper use of functions and objects. They will understand good techniques of programming style, as well as have the ability to design, code, debug, and document program solutions. Prerequisite: MAT-261.
Course Description
This course provides a rigorous treatment of the concepts and methods of integral, multivariable, and vector calculus and its application to real-world problems. Prerequisite: MAT-262.
Course Description
This course is a calculus-based study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121L.
Course Description
This calculus-based course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-121 lecture course. Students are able to perform the proper analysis and calculations to arrive at the correct quantifiable result when confronted with equations involving gravity, sound, energy, and motion. Prerequisite: MAT-262. Co-Requisite: PHY-121.
Course Description
This course introduces CAD features, including fundamentals of 3D modeling for design. Includes overview of modeling, graphical manipulation, part structuring, coordinate system, and developing a strategy of modeling. CAD software enables students to make the transition from 2D drafting to 3D modeling. Students use symbolic math software and 3D modeling tools to visualize and solve engineering problems. The course emphasizes industry practices for modeling parts, extracting drawings, and creating assemblies. Prerequisite: MAT-261.
Course Description
This calculus-based course is the second in a 1-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. The sequence of topics includes an introduction to electric and magnetic fields. This is followed by the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave and topics associated with geometric optics. The final topic discussed in the course is quantum mechanics. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-122 lecture course. Some of the topics students understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121, and PHY-121L. Co-Requisite: PHY-122.
Course Description
This course focuses on solutions and qualitative study of linear systems of ordinary differential equations, and on the analysis of classical partial differential equations. Topics include first- and second-order equations; series solutions; Laplace transform solutions; higher order equations; Fourier series; second-order partial differential equations. Boundary value problems, electrostatics, and quantum mechanics provide the main context in this course. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.
Course Description
This course covers force and moment vectors, resultants, and principles of statics and free-body diagrams. The course presents students with applications to simple trusses, frames, and machines. Additional topics covered include properties of areas, second moments, internal forces in beams, laws of friction, principles of particle dynamics, mechanical systems and rigid-body dynamics, kinematics and dynamics of plane systems, and energy and momentum of 2-D bodies and systems. Prerequisites: PHY-121, PHY-121L, ESG-250, and MAT-264.
Course Description
This course covers the role of statistics in engineering, probability, discrete random variables and probability distributions, continuous random variables and probability distributions, joint probability distributions, random sampling and data description, point estimation of parameters, statistical intervals for a single sample, and tests of hypotheses for a single sample. Prerequisite: MAT-253 or MAT-264.
Course Description
This course includes DC and AC electrical circuit analysis methods, and analog and digital circuit design and analysis, including operational amplifier linear circuits, and digital combinational logic circuits. Computer interface circuits which combine both digital and analog devices for interfacing physical systems will be introduced in the context of computer based hardware. Prerequisites: PHY-122 and PHY-122L. Co-requisite: ESG-202L.
Course Description
The laboratory section of ESG-202 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students will design and create circuits then test the input-output characteristics and compare to analysis. In addition, they will design circuits to interface with computer based electronic boards. Prerequisites: PHY-122, and PHY-122L. Co-Requisite: ESG-202.
Course Description
This course covers the principles of thermodynamics, including properties of ideal gases and water vapors, and the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Additional topics include closed systems and control volume, basic gas and vapor cycles, basic refrigeration, entropy, and an introduction to thermodynamics of reacting mixtures. Students will analyze simple to complex thermodynamic problems. Prerequisites: MAT-264, PHY-121 and PHY-121L.
Course Description
This course covers concepts and theories of internal force, stress, strain, and strength of structural elements under static loading conditions. The course also examines constitutive behavior for linear elastic structures and deflection and stress analysis procedures for bars, beams, and shafts. Students will examine and analyze various modes of failure of solid materials. Prerequisite: ESG-250, ESG-360, MAT-364.
Course Description
This course covers basic concepts in materials structure and its relation to properties. The course will provide students with a broad overview of materials science and engineering. The goal of this course is to understand the fundamental reasons that materials have the properties they do. Students examine properties of interesting materials and try to understand them in terms of their actual atomic or molecular structure. Prerequisite: CHM-115, CHM-115L, PHY-122, PHY-122L, MAT-364. Co-Requisite: MEE-340L.
Course Description
This is the lab section of MEE-340. The course reinforces theoretical concepts covered in lecture and with hands-on activities. Students conduct lab experiments to better understand how certain properties of materials manifest themselves. Prerequisite: CHM-115, CHM-115L, PHY-122, PHY-122L, MAT-364. Co-Requisite: MEE-340.
Course Description
This course is a study of fluid mechanics and heat and mass transfer. Topics include principles of momentum, energy, and mass transport, stress and strain rate descriptions, diffusion, calculation of transport coefficients, problems in viscous flow, dimensional analysis, and turbulence. Similarities and differences of the various phenomena are also examined. Prerequisites: PHY-122, PHY-122L, STG-330, and MAT-364.
Course Description
This course introduces standard mechanical tests and computer based data acquisition techniques, e.g., installing thermocouples, strain gages, positioning static and probes. ASME and ASTM test codes are studied, as are OSHA standards. The course examines how various physical property and system performance tests are set up, conducted, and analyzed. Prerequisites: ESG-202, ESG-202L, and MAT-364.
Course Description
This course covers aspects of project management including principles, best practices, and tools and techniques across major methodologies. Prerequisites: STG-110 and STG-110L,.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the processes of mathematical modeling and analysis of dynamic systems with mechanical, thermal, electrical and fluid elements. Topics covered include: time domain solutions, analog computer simulation, linearization techniques, block diagram representation, numerical methods and frequency domain solutions. Hands-on lab activities enhance students’ ability to mathematically analyze components and systems for mechanical performance. Prerequisites: MAT-364, ESG-202, and ESG-202L.
Course Description
This course covers the integration of machine elements into a system and the verification that the resulting system performs as intended in its operational environment. Areas of study include technical planning, requirements management, integration, verification, validation, and production. Prerequisite: ESG-360.
Course Description
The first capstone course provides students the opportunity to work in teams to tackle real world applied research and design projects in their chosen area of interest. Students develop a project proposal, conduct a feasibility study, learn to protect intellectual property, develop teamwork skills, budgets, and a schedule for completing the project. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revisions. Students use this course to further develop technical writing and business presentation skills. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: STG-430.
Course Description
The second capstone course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first capstone course. The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences in an engineering program. Students conduct extensive research, integrate information from multiple sources, and work with a mentor through multiple cycles of feedback and revision. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: ESG-451.
Course Description
Machine elements are selected and designed based on theories and methods developed in statics, dynamics, and strength of materials. Individual components will also be analyzed using CAE methods. Prerequisite: MEE-460, ESG-360.
Course Description
This course is an overview of manufacturing techniques. Processes may include casting and molding, forming, machining, metrology, welding, joining, and computer-aided manufacturing. Additional topics include product design, material selection, process planning, and manufacturing automation. Process capabilities, limitations, and design for manufacturability will be examined.
Course Description
This course synthesizes applications of linear algebra to modal analysis of dynamical systems, controllability-observability, pole-placement design, separation principle, design of model-based compensators, frequency domain multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) singular value analysis, linear quadratic regulator (LQR), Kalman filter, state estimation, and linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) control system design. The course also presents an introduction to H-infinity/H-2 control system design, with applications to real-world control system design problems, robot dynamics, and robot control. The laboratory is designed to reinforce principles learned in the lecture and to apply these principles and theories to the design, assembly and control of a robot. All computational aspects of this project will be performed in Matlab. Prerequisite: EEE-213 or ESG-455.
Program Locations
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
On-campus program disclosures (4 years) Additional Disclosures
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Program subject to change.