Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, manufacture and maintenance of mechanical components and moving systems. Areas of study within the course include a foundation in physical and engineering sciences, along with materials science and manufacturing, mechanical design, and building services. The course includes a particular focus on project based and practical learning and provides numerous opportunities for students to extend practical skills development. Students taking this course also have the option to undertake a specialist stream in Motorsports. This option provides a special focus on automotive design and Motorsports engineering. Students should consult the course coordinator if they are interested in pursuing this option. As with all of the Schools engineering programs, the Mechanical Engineering program focuses on the development of knowledge and skills relevant to professional engineering practice and along with a sound theoretical base, includes strong elements of practical problem solving, team work and project development. As a result, as well as having multiple technical and transferable skill competencies, graduates will gain strong analytical skills, and have the ability to lead complex projects. The course provides a sound basis in mechanics, mathematics, and the principles of engineering design in the first two years of study, along with development of relevant knowledge in computer aided design and manufacturing, materials science, statics and dynamics, industrial maintenance, and mechanical design. In the final two years of study, a range of specialist mechanical engineering topics are covered, including electromechanical systems, structural analysis, advanced mechanical design, and building services, providing students with relevant knowledge and skills to enable them to contribute in the workforce as soon as they graduate. The first year of this course includes a set of eight units that are common across all engineering honours courses. This allows students the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the various engineering disciplines on offer and the flexibility, if desired, to switch to another engineering discipline/course without penalty after the first year of study. Course structure Students are required to complete 30 Core units, 2 Elective units and a Practicum unit. Cross-Campus attendance Bunbury applicants please note: There is an option to study up to eight foundation units from this degree at ECU's South West (Bunbury) campus, which may include attending a short set of lab sessions at Joondalup campus by the end of each semester, depending on the units studied. After completing these eight units, Bunbury students will need to attend ECU's Joondalup campus to complete the rest of their course. Work Experience requirement Students are required to undertake a minimum of 12 weeks practical work experience in an engineering industry environment. This will normally be undertaken during a vacation period. Employment opportunities Graduates will have competencies in all major areas of mechanical engineering, and be able to participate in and lead complex multidisciplinary projects. Mechanical engineers have diverse employment opportunities in most sectors of industry including product design and development, manufacturing, road and transport, mining and resource, public utilities, agriculture, defence, aerospace and consulting. Possible future job titles Mechanical Engineer