Degree Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

The requirement for the degree is 133 units. A scholarship average of C (2.0) or higher is required in all upper division courses taken in mechanical engineering. See common requirements for undergraduate degrees.

General Education Requirement

Follow the general guidelines except that one general education course must have a previous general education course as a prerequisite where possible, or two courses must be from the same department.

*Students who exceed 600 in SAT Verbal score may replace this with a humanities or social sciences elective.

**ME Option: Any 400-level ME course (except 461, 462, 463L, 464L and 465L) which is not required.

***Any upper division courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics or engineering.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Petroleum Engineering)

The requirement for the degree is 133 units. A grade point average of C (2.0) or higher is required in all upper division courses taken in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. See also the common requirements for undergraduate degrees.

*Students who exceed 600 in SAT verbal score may replace this with a humanities or social sciences elective.

**Any upper division courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics or engineering.

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (Manufacturing Engineering)

If a student chooses six courses (9 to 18 units) from a prescribed program, he or she may graduate with the special designation Area of Emphasis in Manufacturing Engineering on the transcript. Details are given under Manufacturing Engineering.

Minor in Music Recording

A minor in music recording is offered through the School of Music to provide undergraduate students with the background necessary to enter the field of recording engineering and to familiarize them with the design needs of modern recording equipment. The minor is recommended to mechanical engineering majors with extensive musical training who would like to combine their technical and musical abilities while learning the engineering applications of physical and mathematical principles to the art of music recording. See the listing under the School of Music.

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Requirements for the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering are the same as set forth in the general requirements. Six of the required units must be in ME 525 and ME 526 or courses in engineering analysis approved in advance in writing by the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The specific sequence of courses that constitutes an acceptable program must be approved in advance.

Requirements for Graduation Without Thesis, 27 units total with 3.0 grade point average: ME 525 and 526 or approved mathematics (6); 500 level courses in major department (12); approved 400 or 500 level courses (9).

With Thesis, 27 units total with 3.0 grade point average: ME 525 and 526 or approved mathematics (6); 500 or 600 level courses in major department (12) not including thesis; maximum ME 594ab -- thesis (4); approved 400 or 500 level units (5) (a maximum total of eight units combining ME 590 and 594ab).

Recommended Programs of Study

The program of study depends upon the student's interest and background. Listed below are eight areas in mechanical engineering with specific courses identified. Courses in other combinations and from other departments within the university may be approved if a particular coordinated interest can be demonstrated. In some instances students whose undergraduate background is not in mechanical engineering may be required to take additional course work.

During the first semester at USC, students must consult a departmental faculty advisor in the area of concentration and draw up an approved study plan.

Dynamics and Vibrations Required courses: ME 521, 522, 523

Controls and Guidance Required courses: ME 451, 541, 542

Design Methodology Required courses: ME 503, 504, 509

Stress Analysis and Materials Required courses: ME 509, 559, 584

Continuum Mechanics Required courses: ME 506a, 509, 510

Heat Transfer Required courses: ME 457, 515, 516, 517

Combustion and Propulsion Required courses: ME 436, 513, 514

Fluid Dynamics Required courses: ME 457, 518, 519

Engineer in Mechanical Engineering

Requirements for the Engineer in Mechanical Engineering degree are the same as set forth in the general requirements. Six of the units required for the degree must be ME 690. Prior approval must be obtained from the committee before registration in ME 690.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy in mechanical engineering is also offered. See general requirements for graduate degrees.