Mechanical engineering students must demonstrate "an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering" to real world and theoretical problems. This is mostly learned in applied science and math courses, such as thermodynamics.
All mechanical engineering students must demonstrate "an ability to design and conduct experiments, and to analyze and interpret the data." This is mostly learned in laboratory sections for courses, such as internal combustion engine laboratories.
Mechanical engineering students must demonstrate "an ability to design a system, component or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints," such as environmental or manufacturability constraints. This is mostly learned in projects such as senior capstone projects.
Students must demonstrate "an ability to function on multidisciplinary teams." This is mostly learned in projects such as senior capstone projects, in which the team shares tasks in different engineering disciplines, such as electrical systems and manufacturing.
Mechanical engineering students must demonstrate "an ability to identify, formula and solve engineering problems." This is mostly learned in applied science and mathematics courses.
Students must demonstrate "an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility." This is learned throughout the entire program. Course problem statements describe situations in which students must make a choice based on ethical concerns.
Students must show "an ability to communicate effectively" both orally and in writing. Throughout a mechanical engineering student's coursework, she writes laboratory reports to demonstrate this ability.
Students must show that they understand the global, economic, environmental and societal effects of their work. This is usually learned in engineering ethics courses that teach students "the big picture."
Mechanical engineering students must commit to lifelong learning. The roles of a mechanical engineer are constantly changing, new tools are always being developed and new science is always being discovered.
Students must demonstrate "knowledge of contemporary issues." Mechanical engineers are problem solvers and must know what is happening around the world so they can put their skills to good use.
Finally, students must demonstrate "an ability to use the technique, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice." Technology is constantly evolving, and the tools that mechanical engineers use today are vastly different from the tools of yesterday. Drawing and design is done on a computer now, whereas they were done on paper in the past. To succeed in today's world, a mechanical engineer must be able to use these tools.