Mechanical Engineering Technology, AAS
The mechanical engineering technician may be involved with a variety of tasks on the job. These tasks might involve preparing design specifications, production analysis, and the installation, maintenance, and operation of machines, tools, products, and devices used in manufacturing, processing or power generation. Other job functions may include working as a laboratory assistant, designer, estimator, or technical sales.
Although most mechanical engineering technicians find jobs in manufacturing industries, they may also work for government agencies or in research and development activities. Jobs may be situated in the production shop, the design engineering offices, research laboratories, in the field traveling to on‐site locations, or in technical sales.
The individual that has an interest in knowing how things work, determining how things may work better, and who has an interest in problem solving may find Mechanical Engineering Technology an appropriate career choice. The individual should also have an interest in and aptitude for mathematics and science.
The student in Mechanical Engineering Technology will study engineering drawing, mechanical design technology, machine design technology, and materials science. The student will also be introduced to computer‐aided drafting, industrial electricity and electronics, alternative energy, and manufacturing processes. In addition, this program is the first two years of the North Central State College Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
The Associate of Applied Sciences degree is awarded upon completion of this program.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, graduate will:
- Demonstrate the use of computer aided engineering design, suing 2D and 3D drawings, sketching and solid modeling.
- Properly select materials based on their physical properties.
- Properly select machine elements using analysis of stress and properties for structure, frames, beams, and columns.
- Demonstrate an understanding of fluid mechanics.
- Demonstrate basic understanding of industrial electricity applied to power, circuits and programming controllers.
- Work in teams to apply critical thinking skills and engineering concepts to complete real world projects.
- Apply computer programming that generates code to operate robotic equipment.
Program Educational Objectives (EO)
Program educational objectives are broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years after graduation. Program educational objectives are based on the needs of the program’s constituencies (i.e., students, alumni, employers of our students, and faculty of the program), including being able to:
EO1 – Be successfully employed in a mechanical engineering technology-related field capable of earning promotions, professional registration/licensing, certification, and another career recognition;
EO2 – Be effective in the understanding and application of mechanical engineering technology principles;
EO3 – Effectively communicate, work, and lead cross-functional teams;
EO4 – Expand their technical knowledge through professional development, continuing education, or the pursuit of a graduate degree;
EO5 – Conduct their work within the accepted standards of professional integrity and ethics standards.
Student Outcomes (SO)
Student outcomes describe what students are expected to know and be able to do by the time of graduation. These relate to the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that students acquire as they progress through the program, including:
SO1 – an ability to design systems, components, or processes meeting specified needs for broadly-defined engineering problems appropriate to the discipline;
SO2 – an ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in broadly – defined technical and non-technical environments; and an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature;
SO3 – an ability to conduct standard tests, measurements, and experiments and to analyze and interpret the results to improve processes;
SO4 – an ability to function effectively as a member as well as a leader on technical teams;
SO5 – an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and Mathematics.
Where You Could Go
Manufacturing plants, engineering firms, government agencies, mining, and materials production all hire MECT graduates.
NC State has over 40 agreements with four-year colleges and universities, to provide a smooth transition for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Through university partnerships, some four-year courses are also offered on the NC State campus or online.
Job Demand
Graduates of these programs have had no trouble finding excellent employment opportunities in our area. The programs are not narrowly focused; this offers greater flexibility in meeting the changing career opportunities in today’s job market.
$45,000 - $56,000*
These estimated earnings are for employees who have completed their associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. Career advancement is available if you transfer your credits toward a bachelor’s degree. As experience and education increase, you can expect to earn significantly more during your career.
For more information on regional jobs and pay, go to NC State’s Career Coach page.
*Earnings figure is based on EMSI employment information for north central Ohio.
$16,932 - $12,690 = $4,242 in net cost*
The calculation above includes the following:
- The estimated current cost of tuition, fees and books to complete this two-year associate degree at NC State is $16,932.
- Minus the average amount of financial aid ($6,690 x 2 years) students received. NOTE: Your financial aid could be higher or lower than this average.
- Leaving just $4,242 to be funded by other sources — which may include additional scholarships, grants and loans. Many students opt for payment plans to avoid debt. Employed students should inquire with their employers about the possibility of reimbursement for educational expenses.
Three out of four NC State graduates have $0 college debt. We will work with you to explore every source of financial aid available.
*These figures were calculated using data available when this information was published.
$47,336*
Estimated cost of two years of instruction and attendance at a four-year public institution in Ohio.
$86,064*
Estimated cost of two years of instruction and attendance at a four-year private institution in Ohio.
*This estimate is an average of the cost including room and board for residential students.
Year One
Fall Semester
ENGL 1010 - English Composition I
This is a basic course in expository writing and critical reading. Students read a variety of nonfiction works and write summaries, analysis, essays, and a researched argument in response to their reading. Students learn to read actively and accurately and to organize, develop, and revise coherent papers appropriate for a college-educated audience. (OTM for First Writing Course TME001)
ENGR 1010 - Introduction to Engineering
This is an introductory course for engineering technology students. Students will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of engineering, the problems engineers encounter and the contributions made by engineers in various disciplines. The ethics and responsibilities of the engineer will discussed. Lab experience includes the following PC applications: operating systems and hardware, word processors, spreadsheets, and engineering graphing. An introduction to computer programming is included with emphasis placed on using a PC to solve engineering problems and produce results.
MATH 1110 - College Algebra
A study of: 1) polynomial operations, rational expressions, exponents, radicals; 2) linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, absolute value applications and their graphs; 3) graphs of elementary functions and non-functions including inverse functions, combining functions, and translating and transforming functions; 4) study of polynomial functions including the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, zeroes of polynomials, rational functions, partial fractions; 5) exponential and logarithmic functions including graphs and applications; 6) Gauss-Jordan elimination and Cramer's Rule. This course meets the requirements for OTM College Algebra TMM001.
MECT 1150 - Fundamentals of Engineering Design
An introductory course to acquaint the student with the tools used to convey design concepts and product information in the engineering arena. 3D visualization, using sketching, drawing, solid modeling and computer aided drafting will be used. The course will also introduce the main concepts in developing an engineering design project.
MFGT 1110 - Manufacturing Processes
This course offers an introduction to manufacturing methods and basic machine tool operation. Students will be provided the background needed to read and interpret technical drawings and proper use of a variety of inspection and measuring tools. Students will also develop and use shop documents such as job plans and blueprints. Lab activities include Soldering, Electroplating, CNC Engraving, Mold making, Polymer Resin and Sheet Metal fabrication. Diligent attention is given to safety in the modern manufacturing environment. OET010 Manufacturing Process.
Spring Semester
CHEM 1030 - Chemistry
The course is to give the Allied Health and Nursing student an appreciation and understanding of general inorganic chemistry. Includes atomic and molecular structure, molecular forces, properties and states of matter, naming of chemical compounds, types and behaviors of solutions, types of reactions, acid base chemistry, carefully chosen organic topics with their applications to specific health problems. Laboratory exercises will enhance and reinforce lecture topics. (OTM approved course in Natural Sciences TMNS)
ENRD 2150 - Computer Aided Design I
This course is designed to introduce the student to fundamentals of Computer Aided Drafting and 3D Modeling. The student will create single-view, multi-view, sectional, and auxiliary view drawings with dimensions and tolerances. The student will also draw a multiple sheet/multiple part assembly drawing complete with a bill of materials. TAG: OET012CAD - CTAG: CTMET005
MATH 1130 - Trigonometry
This course includes the study of trigonometric functions and inverse trigonometric functions and their graphs; solutions of right and oblique triangles and their applications; solutions of trigonometric equations and inequalities; the use of identities, vectors, and complex numbers; and solutions of polar equations and parametric equations. Students must supply a graphing calculator. This course meets the requirements for OTM Trigonometry TMM003.
MECT 1750 - Hydraulics and Pneumatics
This course will be based on learning today's Fluid Control Concepts that are important in die construction in the manufacturing area. In addition to system design and layout, the student will gain experience through labs using construction and operating systems. (TAG# OET009)
MECT 1910 - Introduction to Project Design
Students will participate in a mechanical design project as assigned.
PHYS 1110 - General Physics I
A study of Classical Newtonian Mechanics including measurement systems, dimensional analysis, vectors, scalars, linear, circular and rotational motion, forces in equilibrium, acceleration, work, and energy. A study of material properties including density, and hydraulic principles (both static and kinetic). Also a study of waves, and sound including simple harmonic motion, vibrations, reflection, transmission, interference, and resonance for waves, and intensity, sources, interference, and Doppler Effect for sound. This course meets the requirements for TAG# OSC014. If combined with PHYS1130, TAG# OSC021 is met.
Year Two
Fall Semester
ELET 1510 - DC Electricity
Elements of DC Circuits is an introductory course in direct current circuit theory that includes the basic concepts of voltage, current, resistance and power. (CTAG = CTEET001 and TAG = OET01)
MECT 2230 - Engineering Materials
Physical metallurgy emphasizing commercial alloys, heat treatment, and surface treatment of the iron, steel, aluminum, copper, and aerospace metals. The laboratory covers basic metallographic techniques of specimen polishing, etching, and examination. (TAG# OET013)
MECT 2330 - Statics
A problem course dealing with bodies at rest; it lays the necessary groundwork for further study in the design and analysis of structures and machines. Emphasis is placed upon the importance of the ability to draw free body diagrams used in solving problems. (TAG# OET007)
MECT 2335 - Engineering Statics
A problem based course utilizing calculus in dealing with bodies at rest; it lays the necessary groundwork for further study in the design and analysis of structures and machines. Emphasis is placed upon the importance of the ability to draw free body diagrams used in solving problems.
MECT 2905 - Design Project I
This course builds on prior design project courses. Students will participate in a mechanical design project as assigned.
PHIL 1110 - Ethics
This course involves an examination of several ethical theories, including ethical relativism, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, social contract ethics, theological ethics, and rational ethics. Subjects covered may include the ethics of nuclear war, the ethics of suicide, ethical issues in abortion, the ethics of euthanasia, ethical issues in genetic engineering, sexual ethics, racism and sexism, capital punishment, ethics and the environment and so on. This course meets the requirements for OTM Arts and Humanities TMAH and slso TAG# OAH046.
PHYS 1130 - General Physics II
A study of heat to include calorimetry, expansion, heat capacity, conductivity, phase change, kinetic theory and gas laws. A study of light including its nature, and geometric optics. Also a study of electricity and magnetism including electric charges at rest, potentials, capacitance and dielectrics, current, resistance, and voltage, alternating circuits theory of frequency, reactance, impedance, power and resonance, magnetic field definition and effects on moving charges and conductors. This course meets the requirements for TAG# OSC015. If combined with PHYS 1110 , TAG# OSC021 is met.
Spring Semester
ENGL 1030 - English Composition II
This is a course in argument and research writing. Students read issue-based works and write summaries, responses, and an argument and research paper. Students learn to organize research projects, find and evaluate sources, incorporate ideas and quotations from sources, document their sources in MLA and APA style, analyze and use argumentative strategies and persuasive appeals, and prepare and revise effective, coherent papers. (OTM for Second Writing Course TME002)
ENGR 2010 - Engineering Programming Robotics and PLC
This course is designed to help students with very little or no computing background, learn the basics of building simple interactive applications. This course will also cover the basic principles behind the operation of programmable controllers, the relationship between PC's and the relay ladder logic, programming of PC's, and troubleshooting of programmable controller circuits. The primary focus is on the use of automatic parts-handling equipment, contour applications and interfacing with emphasis on design for manufacturing. Topics include the use of conveyers, parts feeders, positioning equipment and safety systems. Hands-on laboratory experiences include operation of robots using the teach pendant.
SOCY 2010 - Cultural Diversity and Racism
Sociological exploration of American racial and ethnic groups. Emphasis placed on the social construction of race and ethnicity, patterns of intergroup contact. Historical comparative analysis of selected groups with emphasis on economic, political and structural inequalities. Please note outcomes are written to OBR standards using OBR language. Ohio Articulation Number OSS 050 Race and Ethnicity . This course also meets the requirements for OTM in Social and Behavioral Sciences TMSBS.
MECT 2910 - Mechanical Design Project
This is a capstone course in the Associate Degree program; it brings together the course work and learning experiences from the mechanical engineering technology program. Students will participate in a mechanical design project to be completed following the procedures presented.
MECT 2440 - Strength of Materials
A study of the effects of load on structures, frames, beams, columns, and mechanisms; including stress and strain in tension, compression, shear, and torsion; column buckling; torsion, axial and lateral deflections; thermal stresses and strains, and properties of materials. (TAG# OET008)
ENGR 2850 - Engineering Economics & Organization
A practical introduction to the economic analysis of capital investment. The economic portion of the course covers interest factors for present, annual, and future worth; rates of return; increment and sunk costs; and economic order quantity. The course also covers a broad overview of the operations of an industrial organization, emphasizing the relationship of basic functions and principles essential to efficient and profitable operation of industrial enterprises. Content covers such topics as organizational structure, production planning and control, purchasing, sales, personnel administration, ownership and financing, business ethics and compensation. (TAG# OES005)