Online Computational Fluid Dynamics Certificate

Earn An Online Computational Fluid Dynamics Certificate. Acquire Versatile Skills for Several Engineering Fields.

That spoiler on your neighbor's sports car, whether you appreciate it or not, was probably developed with the input of engineers with computational fluid dynamics experience. And it is not just spoilers, but also small devices that require CFD expertise, such as the tiny microfluidic devices delivering pharmaceuticals.

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD), in short, is a branch of fluid mechanics, which itself is a sub-field of mechanical engineering. CFD uses numerical analysis and data structures to solve and analyze problems that involve gas, liquid, and plasma flows. CFD is mainly applied to simulate the behavior of liquids and gases and to analyze the effects of fluid flows on various physical systems, from aircraft to spoilers to microfluidic devices. It is used to optimize designs, calculate performance, and predict the effects of changes in design parameters.

With an online computational fluid dynamics certificate, then, you will master the foundations of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mathematical modeling—allowing you to be successful in multiple engineering disciplines.

Progress Quickly With A Compact Curriculum.

To qualify for this certificate, students must first have this prerequisite: Introductory Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer (MEEM 3201).

The Online Computational Fluid Dynamics Certificate, comprised of only 9 credits, is flexible and compact enough to fit around the demands of your life, your job, and your other responsibilities. To complete your certificate, you will take 6 credits of required courses and 3 credits of electives.

When planning your program, always check the course registration page for the availability of classes.

Required Courses (6 credits)

MEEM 4210 - Computational Fluids Engineering

This course introduces students to computational methods used to solve fluid mechanics and thermal transport problems. Computer-based tools are used to solve engineering problems involving fluid mechanics and thermal transport.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Fall
Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
Pre-Requisite(s): MEEM 3201(C)

MEEM 5215 - Computational Fluids Engineering

This course introduces students into the theoretical and practical aspects of computational methods in fluid mechanics and thermal transport problems. Computer based tools are used to reinforce principles on advanced topics in thermo-fluids science.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Fall
Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate; Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering

MEEM 5240 - Comp Fluid Dynamics for Engg

Introduces finite-difference and finite-volume methods used in solving fluid dynamics and heat transfer problems. Covers numerical grid generation, turbulence modeling, and application to some selected problems.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Spring, in odd years
Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate; Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering

Electives (3 credits)

MEEM 4230 - Compressible Flow/Gas Dynamics

Fundamentals of one-dimensional gas dynamics, including flow in nozzles and diffusers, normal shocks, frictional flows, and flows with heat transfer or energy release; introduction to oblique shocks.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Spring
Pre-Requisite(s): MEEM 3201

MEEM 5210 - Advanced Fluid Mechanics

Develops control volume forms of balance laws governing fluid motion and applies to problems involving rockets, pumps, sprinklers, etc. Derives and studies differential forms of governing equations for incompressible viscous flows. Some analytical solutions are obtained and students are exposed to rationale behind computational solution in conjunction with CFD software demonstration. Also covers qualitative aspects of lift and drag, loss of stability of laminar flows, turbulence, and vortex shedding.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Fall
Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate; Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering

MEEM 6245 - Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics

An advanced graduate CDF course based on finite difference/ volume methods. Topics are selected from the following list: numerical grid generation, turbulence modeling, multi-phase flows, chemically reacting flows, lattice Boltzmann method, gas kinetic scheme, molecular dynamics method, Monte Carlo Method, particle-in-cell method, etc.

Credits: 3.0
Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring
Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
Pre-Requisite(s): MEEM 5240

Acquire Foundational Skills.

Students will develop several skills and competencies, such as the following:

building a foundation in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mathematical modeling, proper selections of numerical schemes, qualitative and quantitative analyses of results, scheme analyses, and associated programming
mastering CFD/CHT (computational heat transfer) while building upon skills in math and physics
running computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and heat transfer (CHT) simulations
writing and debugging computational fluid dynamics programs to solve specific engineering problems
incorporating efficiency into complex CFD/CHT problem solving.

This program is also available on-campus.

Why Study Computational Fluid Dynamics at Michigan Tech?

When you earn your online certificate from us, you'll get a quality education. In fact, Michigan Tech is ranked the #2 best value colleges in Michigan (Niche, 2022). You'll also access other benefits.

A Rigorous Online Experience

You'll take the same, robust classes as do students in our in-person programs. These classes are taught directly by highly regarded faculty, who receive outstanding support from staff.
Joining One of MTU's Strongest Departments

By pursuing this online certificate, you will be joining the one of the biggest and most respected academic communities at Michigan Tech: the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Working With Esteemed Faculty

You'll learn from respected professors who have spent years analyzing the intricacies of computational fluid dynamics, such as Dr. Jeffrey S. Allen, prolific researcher and John F. and Joan M. Calder Endowed Professor in Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics.

Learn more about mechanical engineering and associated research at Michigan Tech.

What Do Engineers With Computational Fluid Dynamics Expertise Do?

Computational Fluid Dynamics is used in a wide range of fields, such as aerospace engineering, automotive engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, and ocean engineering.

It is used in the design of new products, such as aircraft, automobiles, boats, and medical devices. In addition, those with CFD expertise optimize existing systems, such as turbochargers, aerosol sprayers, and rocket nozzles.

And CFD careers are lucrative, too. For instance, according to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, $130,720 is the 2023 median annual salary for aerospace engineers whereas $99,510 is the 2023 median annual salary for mechanical engineers.

Possible Career Paths

Aerospace Engineer
Automotive Engineer
CFD Analyst
CFD Engineer
CFD Modeling Engineer
CFD Simulation Engineer
Marine Engineer
Materials Engineer
Materials Scientist

Get Started on Your Online Computational Fluid Dynamics Certificate.

Take the next steps on your educational journey. We are here to answer your questions and to help you succeed in your online program.