Engineering Mechanics

Why do things break? — How is the deformation of solids predicted? — What forces are relevant at the macro-, micro-, and nano-scales? — How can I use a fundamental understanding of solid mechanics to design new kinds of materials? — How can I create heterogeneous materials superior to existing materials? — How can I predict if a structure will perform the way I want it to? — How do I build mathematical models of structures for analysis? — How can I understand vibration in a spacecraft structure? — How can I predict and control the attitude of a spacecraft? — How do airplanes fly? — How do we control a flying airplane? — Can we see air flowing past a wing?

You can answer all of these questions and more by studying Engineering Mechanics!

A degree in Engineering Mechanics will prepare you to work in advanced technology. Our majors go to jobs in industry, government labs, and academia where the problems they solve are "unusual and non-routine." This is a major where you can learn basic analytical, numerical, and experimental methods which are applicable over broad areas of engineering and science.

With a curriculum that emphasizes the basic sciences (mathematics, computer science, physics, and chemistry) and the engineering sciences (dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, materials science, and electrical engineering), you will have the versatility necessary to handle the variety and complexity of modern technological problems as well as the ability to adapt to the rapidly changing needs and interests of industry, government, and society.

Our graduates interact with chemists, mathematicians, physicists, and other engineers on interdisciplinary projects and programs. Their tasks may include developing/modifying analytical or experimental models; or solving problems in the newly emerging areas of engineering for which standard methods, formulas, or materials have not yet been developed.

Elective courses are offered in areas such as dynamics and vibrations; materials characterization; applied mathematics and numerical methods; biomechanics; experimental mechanics; stress analysis and structural mechanics; and mechanical systems analysis. BS students who do not choose the Astronautics Option (described below) have the flexibility to tailor their degree program in a variety of different technical directions.

Undergraduate Astronautics Option

The Astronautics Option in Engineering Mechanics provides the opportunity for students to earn an aerospace related BS degree at the University of Wisconsin. With the fundamental underpinnings provided by the Engineering Mechanics, the Astronautics Option gives students a degree experience commensurate with majors such as Astronautical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.

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See details on our Undergraduate Program and Graduate Program.

Contact us at ema@engr.wisc.edu or use our Short Form to ask for information about graduate study in Engineering Mechanics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.