Program Overview

Mechanical Engineering Technology
Associate in Applied Science Degree (A40320) (Standard Option)

The Mechanical Engineering Technology curriculum prepares graduates for employment as
technicians in the diversified mechanical and manufacturing engineering fields. Mechanical
Engineering technicians assist in design, development, testing, process design and improvement, and troubleshooting and repair of engineered systems. Emphasis is placed on the integration of theory and hands-on application of engineering principles.

In addition to course work in engineering graphics, engineering fundamentals, materials and
manufacturing processes, mathematics, and physics, students will study computer applications, critical thinking, planning, and problem solving, and oral and written communications.

Career Outline

Graduates of the curriculum will find employment opportunities in the manufacturing or service sectors of engineering technology. Engineering technicians may obtain professional certification by application to organizations such as ASQC, SME, and NICET.

Program Educational Objectives

Graduates from the MET program of Gaston College will come out of the program with strong skills in the fundamentals of mechanical engineering technology that will enable them to be very easy to train . Their skills will  enable them to function effectively in any entry level position of mechanical engineering technology position, with strengths in specifying, installing, fabricating, testing , documenting, operating and maintaining basic mechanical systems.

Graduates who continue their  education  will be well prepared for further studies in  mechanical engineering  technology and perform  equally  well compared to their classmates from a four year  program.

All  graduates will value life-long learning and continue to update their knowledge and skills beyond their formal education.  

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Program Outcomes

Graduates must demonstrate:

1. Knowledge of and hands-on competence  in the field of mechanical engineering technology in the areas of mechanical analysis, application of design concepts, application of mathematics and physics at algebra and trigonometry level to engineering technology analysis, assembly and testing of mechanical equipment.
2. Knowledge and hands-on competence  in the application of the principle of engineering materials, basic machine design,  fluid mechanics and thermal sciences and fundamentals of electricity,  in  any environment requiring such knowledge.
3. An ability to think, analyze and propose a solution to  technical problems requiring  knowledge at an associate degree level in  manufacturing processes, mechanical design principles, computer-aided engineering graphics,  function individually on teams, and communicate  effectively.
4. An ability to perform as a responsible engineering technology professional, including an understanding  of ethical and societal responsibilities, a respect for diversity, a knowledge of contemporary professional, societal and global issues, and a commitment to equality, and continuous improvement. 

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