The first two years of the course develop a background of mathematics, physics, chemistry and English upon which the technical subjects of the last two years depend. An introduction to the technical phase of the work is had in this period through such subjects as engineering drawing, shop work and electricity. A practical view-point may be developed by work in industry during the summers.
In the third year, the student is introduced to the several basic courses in engineering such as thermodynamics, heat power, hydraulics, strength of materials, machine design and electricity. A knowledge of the problems of our social and industrial life is obtained by a study of economics, staff control and business law.
The student’s time in the fourth year, is divided between strictly technical work in college and an attempt to co-ordinate with this the cooperative industrial work in industry. In this manner, the practical side of his profession is emphasized. The technical work in school consists of applying the principles developed in the previous year to definite engineering problems. This is done by a study of power plants, turbines, internal combustion engines, heating and ventilation and structural design. In the laboratories, tests are made on various machines to determine their operating characteristics; fuels and lubricating oils are examined; materials are studied both from the machine tool view-point and their heat treatment and metallurgical properties. The economic side of the question is further emphasized by courses in management and staff control.
Students who have satisfactorily completed the first three years of work in mechanical engineering may choose the aeronautical option courses in the fourth year. In this course, some of the more general subjects in mechanical engineering are replaced by more specialized instruction in aeronautics.
Arrangements may be made whereby students of aeronautical subjects, who wish to enroll in the aircraft mechanics course at the Casey Jones School in Newark or in flying courses at the various fields, will receive credit in their co-operative work for such time spent in these courses. This work may be taken during the summer or during the regular co-operative period. The cost of such courses must be carried by the student; it is not included in the regular college fees.
The student branch of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers holds eight to ten meetings a year at the college. All students in the department are expected to attend these meetings.
Engineering Drawing
The aim in Engineering Drawing is to so train all the students of the engineering departments that they will be able to write, to read, and to understand the universal language of Engineering Drawing.
The work is designed as training for engineers, not draftsmen, therefore an attempt has been made to eliminate copy work as such, and to place stress upon an understanding of what is being done and of the reasons for doing it that way.
The ability to make good freehand sketches rapidly, easily and accurately is an asset to any engineer. Much time and attention is, therefore, devoted to sketching. An engineer must, also, be able to inspect a drawing and know whether or not it is well drawn, accurate and complete, so training is given in checking drawings.