Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree
Earn Your Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) Degree
Explore the practical applications of mechanical engineering principles and contribute to the advancement of technology people use every day by studying mechanical engineering technology. Grand Canyon University offers an academically rigorous degree program developed with industry guidance to fully prepare graduates to enter the workforce. The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) guides students in becoming innovative, critical thinkers, capable of a wide variety of engineering positions.
The mechanical engineering technology degree is offered by the College of Science, Engineering and Technology. This program focuses on the real-world application of engineering principles to understand how objects and materials work, how they are made and how they can be improved. Graduates will emerge with the hands-on experience and foundational knowledge that enable them to become immediate contributors in the field.
Explore Technical Foundations and Real World Experience
Mechanical engineering technology jobs require employees to be critical thinkers and strong communicators. Those are two of the qualities that GCU actively cultivates in students. Through collaborative coursework, students become confident team members and capable contributors. As a Christian school, GCU emphasizes the role of professional ethics. Students are encouraged to consider the curriculum through the lens of the Christian worldview, and to develop the qualities of servant leadership.
Mechanical engineering technology students begin the program developing foundational knowledge in science and mathematics, with a focus on physics and computer science. Advanced topic areas include static and dynamic loading conditions in mechanical systems, 3D modeling for design in CAD software and the analysis of fluid and heat transfer. Other core competencies include the following:
- The use of computerized tools in design and manufacturing, with a look at Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) systems for the generation of tool design
- Strength characteristics of metals, including performance in bending, torsion, shear and uniaxial loading conditions
- Common manufacturing techniques, including casting and molding, forming, machining, metrology, welding and joining
In addition, students complete Senior Project I and II. These are hands-on opportunities to work in teams and with a mentor to tackle real-world applied research and design projects in the students’ area of interest. Students may participate in internships and assigned projects in collaboration with engineering professionals. Mechanical engineering technology degree graduates may work for private corporations, research facilities, government agencies, government contractors or for any company in any industry looking for an engineer with a strong hands-on approach to problem solving.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree?
Prepare for cutting-edge mechanical engineering technology jobs that place you at the frontier of design, development and manufacturing. Employers need qualified graduates to work in industries such as automotive and defense manufacturing, as well as digital technology products all with a focus on product design, development, manufacturing and quality. Some of the jobs that may be related to this mechanical engineering technology degree may include the following:
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Process Mechanical Engineer Industrial Engineer
- Field Engineer
- Product Development Engineer
- Test Engineer
Graduates with a BS in mechanical engineering technology find positions in companies all across the country. Although most positions held by graduates with a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology require only a bachelor’s degree, some graduates may choose to enhance their career qualifications by pursuing one of GCU’s many STEM master’s degrees.
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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 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 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 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.
Program Core Courses
Course Description
This course is a 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-154, MAT-250, MAT-261 or College Algebra. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-111 lecture course. Learners 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-154, MAT-250, MAT-261 or College Algebra. Co-Requisite: PHY-111.
Course Description
This course provides a foundation for programming and problem solving using computer programming, as well as an introduction to the academic discipline of IT. Topics include variables, expressions, functions, control structures, and pervasive IT themes: IT history, organizational issues, and relationship of IT to other computing disciplines. The course prepares students for advanced concepts and techniques in programming and information technology, including object-oriented design, data structures, computer systems, and networks. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on writing code that implements concepts discussed in lecture and on gaining initial exposure to common operating systems, enterprise architectures, and tools commonly used by IT professionals. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or MAT-261.
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 a brief review of linear, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse functions; understanding and calculating limits, continuity, and derivatives as rates of change; differentiation rules including derivatives of polynomials, exponentials, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions; product and quotient rules, the chain rule, and implicit differentiation; related rates, curve sketching, maximum and minimum problems, mean value theorem, linear approximation, indeterminate forms, and L’Hospital’s rule; and applied optimization problems, antiderivatives, and approximating areas under the curve. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-250 or MAT-261.
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.
Course Description
This course is the second in a one-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Course topics include an introduction to electric and magnetic fields, the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave, geometric optics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear reactions. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112L.
Course Description
This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-112 lecture course. Some of the topics learners 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: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112.
Course Description
This course covers static loading conditions in mechanical systems. Topics in this course include resolution of forces in both trusses and frames. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: ESG-250.
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 course will examine both kinetics and kinematics of components and systems including the examination of mechanisms in dynamics. Prerequisite: MET-212.
Course Description
This course covers topics in electrical and mechanical instrumentation and data acquisition. Topics include gauges and transducers, calibration, signal noise and conditioning, computerized data acquisition (DAQ) systems, results documentation, and statistical analysis of data. Prerequisite: PHY-111, PHY-111L & PHY-112, PHY-112L.
Course Description
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of electric circuits. Students will learn methods for analyzing DC networks under different loading conditions. Topics include Kirchoff’s voltage and current laws, node analysis, mesh analysis, impedance, series and parallel load combinations, transient analysis, operational amplifiers (op-amps), and Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis (SPICE) modeling. Students also develop skills in PCB fabrication and soldering. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: EET-202L.
Course Description
This laboratory-based course reinforces the analysis of DC networks by providing additional hands on experience in breadboarding, modeling, and measuring inputs and outputs for a given circuit. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: EET-202.
Course Description
This course is an extension of Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) for Mechanical Engineering Technology.. Tools for Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), and CAE, in general will be used in a variety of industrial applications. Emphasis will be placed upon how these computerized tools can be used in design and manufacturing including the introduction of Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) systems for the generation of tools paths and tool design. Prerequisite: MAT-252 or MAT-261, ESG-250.
Course Description
This course covers concepts of the strength of materials. Principally, the strength characteristics of metals will be examined including their performance in bending, torsion, shear, and uniaxial loading conditions. Additional topics will include buckling and pressure vessel calculations. Prerequisites: PHY-111, PHY-111L, CHM-113, and CHM-113L
Course Description
This course covers analytical and practical methods of design, analysis, and reliability of mechanical systems. Design component elements include gears, belts, pulleys, chains, brakes, and power screws. Basic stress calculations and material selection will also be discussed. Prerequisites: PHY-111, PHY-111L and MET-275
Course Description
This courses examines fluid mechanics and heat transfer. Topics include flow measurement, pressure drop, heat exchangers, and hydraulics and their subsequent industrial applications. Prerequisites: PHY-111, PHY-111L, CHM-113, CHM-113L, and MET-213
Course Description
This course examines the various methods of controlling electrical mechanical systems using lumped parameter models. Topics include interfacing with analog and digital sensors, motors, and actuators. Advanced control software will be used for programming the systems. Prerequisites: EET-202 and ETG-222, or EET-325
Course Description
The first senior project 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.
Course Description
This course will emphasize the necessary elements leading to quality production. Course topics will include Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Six-Sigma. Prerequisite: MAT-274.
Course Description
This course examines the different aspects of material use in manufacturing processes. Topics include mechanical properties of metals, composites, atomic structure, corrosion, creep, failure theories, and heat treatment. Prerequisites: PHY-111, PHY-111L, CHM-113, and CHM-113L
Course Description
This course is an extension of Principles of Design I and furthers the understanding of the design of mechanical systems. Failure theories and overall design considerations such as engineering economics and ethics will be covered. Prerequisite: MET-302
Course Description
The second senior project course provides students the opportunity to implement and present the applied research project designed, planned, and started in the first senior project course. The senior project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the Engineering Technology programs. 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: Successful completion of ETG-498 with a grade of C or better.
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 is the lab component of STG-460. In this lab, the topics discussed in the lecture will be applied including casting, welding, machining, brazing, forming, and computer-aided manufacturing. Co-Requisite: STG-460
Course Description
This course covers the use of Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools. Topics include Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and CNC programming. The course emphasizes safety and process planning. Prerequisites: PHY-111, PHY-111L and MET-275.
Course Description
This course examines the fundamental laws which exist in thermodynamics. Topics include ideal gases, mixtures, power and refrigeration cycles. Emphasis will be placed on applying knowledge to heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) and refrigeration systems. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L.
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.