Flexible Delivery Options Match Your Work-life Balance
This 30-credit degree is designed for the traditional student or working professional to align course projects to applications in their place of work. Courses will be offered in a variety of formats to suit the learner. Courses will include application-based learning activities to be performed at the workplace.
Upon graduation students will be able to:
- Estimate manufacturing competitiveness in terms of quality, continuous improvement, and manufacturing management.
- Contribute to the advanced manufacturing body of knowledge (Thesis option), investigate advanced manufacturing methods (Report option), or recognize advanced manufacturing methods (Coursework option).
- Demonstrate effective communication skills in written, graphic, and oral formats.
- Select responsible, legal, and ethical modes of conduct to sustain the manufacturing engineering profession.
This MS degree encompasses the building blocks of advanced manufacturing such as smart manufacturing, modeling, simulation, sustainability, additive manufacturing, and advanced materials. This 30-credit degree is designed for the traditional student or working professional to align course projects to applications in their place of work.
Courses will be offered in a variety of formats to suit the learner. The courses can be satisfied online or in person, and application projects will be performed on campus or at an employee’s workplace.
For instance, while studying the topic of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerances, a course project may involve analyzing the list of operations for producing a product to determine the manufacturing processes necessary to satisfy the tolerances applied in the design. This task would be applicable for a person that is working in industry in an engineering position. Therefore, the task described will satisfy both their course requirements and possibly standard job duties.
For traditional students enrolled in the program, the MMET Machine Shop will take the place of the industrial setting.
Group projects will accommodate students that are not currently in roles that accommodate a workplace project.
MS Plans
The thesis option requires 20 course credits plus 10 research credits. The report option requires 24 course credits plus 6 research credits. The coursework option requires 30 course credits.
This option requires a research thesis prepared under the supervision of the advisor. The thesis describes a research investigation and its results. The scope of the research topic for the thesis should be defined in such a way that a full-time student could complete the requirements for a master’s degree in 12 months or three semesters following the completion of coursework by regularly scheduling graduate research credits.
The minimum requirements are as follows:
| Option Parts | Credits |
|---|---|
| Coursework (minimum) | 20 Credits |
| Thesis research | 6-10 Credits |
| Total (minimum) | 30 Credits |
| Distribution | Credits |
|---|---|
| 5000-6000 series (minimum) | 12 Credits |
| 3000-4000 (maximum) | 12 Credits |
Programs may have stricter requirements and may require more than the minimum number of credits listed here.
This option requires a report describing the results of an independent study project. The scope of the research topic should be defined in such a way that a full-time student could complete the requirements for a master’s degree in twelve months or three semesters following the completion of coursework by regularly scheduling graduate research credits.
Of the minimum total of 30 credits, at least 24 must be earned in coursework other than the project:
| Option Parts | Credits |
|---|---|
| Coursework (minimum) | 24 Credits |
| Report | 2-6 Credits |
| Total (minimum) | 30 Credits |
| Distribution | Credits |
|---|---|
| 5000-6000 series (minimum) | 12 Credits |
| 3000-4000 (maximum) | 12 Credits |
Programs may have stricter requirements and may require more than the minimum number of credits listed here.
This option requires a minimum of 30 credits be earned through coursework. A limited number of research credits may be used with the approval of the advisor, department, and Graduate School. See degree requirements for more information.
A graduate program may require an oral or written examination before conferring the degree and may require more than the minimum credits listed here:
| Distribution | Credits |
|---|---|
| 5000-6000 series (minimum) | 18 Credits |
| 3000-4000 (maximum) | 12 Credits |
See Degree Requirements for the Master of Science.
Required Courses
All required courses will be available through remote instruction, whether synchronous or asynchronous. Check the schedule of online courses.
Take 16 credits from this list. MEEM 6010 Engineering Research Communications may be taken instead of MFGE 5010 (formerly listed as MEEM 5010).
Introduction to design, conduct, and analysis of statistical studies, with an introduction to statistical computing and preparation of statistical reports. Topics include design, descriptive, and graphical methods, probability models, parameter estimation and hypothesis testing.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
This course introduces graduate students to professional engineering communication such as composing technical memos and a variety of reports (test, design, progress, etc.). Students learn and practice creating compelling visuals for reports and slides, and also develop and deliver presentations individually and in groups.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
Team building, ethical decision making, enhanced communication skills, critical thinking, and people skills are discussed. Students learn the practice of leadership, as it relates to organizational effectiveness.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
GD&T is the universal manufacturing language. This course will focus on the ASME Y14.5-2018 standard and cover the concepts of GD&T needed to communicate effectively in the manufacturing sector. Includes: assembly tolerance stack-up, applying and interpreting geometric symbols, datum reference frames, and calculating position and profile tolerance.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
An examination of industry 4.0 as it relates to manufacturing. Topics include smart factories, cyber physical systems, proactive maintenance, computer simulation, horizontal and vertical integration, and barriers to implementation.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
In this course, students will be introduced to the principles of industrial safety. In detail, this course will cover best practices of safety in the workplace as well as OSHA regulations. After completing this course, students should be able to demonstrate their knowledge of maintaining a safe working environment as well as OSHA compliance.
- Credits: 1.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
Manufacturing Emphasis Area Electives
The remaining courses are subject to advisor approval, with the limitation of a maximum of 12 credits at the 3000-4000 level. Example courses are shown below. Other courses/areas may be suitable as well.
Additive Manufacturing
Background, principles, process chain, software aspects, post-processing, open-source tools, applications, and future directions of AM technologies are discussed. Advanced topics include process modeling and selection, DFAM, and opportunities and challenges of AM processes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- 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; Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Eng-Eng Mechanics, Engineering Mechanics
This course looks into the challenges of Additive. Pros and cons of the seven ASTM AM categories are discussed with the view of product purpose: form, fit, and function. Effects of build orientation, layer height, particle size, and slicing software have on part integrity are also discussed.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
A hands-on approach is used to investigate Additive Manufacturing technologies. Key concepts are demonstrated by implementing the generic eight-step AM process. Students will design and print parts using various AM machines.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-1-3)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
Manufacturing Systems and Operations
Applications and case studies focusing on contemporary issues in operations and quality management to include lean manufacturing practices, ERP, quality and environmental management systems/standards, Six Sigma, statistical process control, and other current topics.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate; Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Data Science, Engineering Management, Applied Natural Resource Econ., Accounting, Business Administration
Using Allen Bradley Contr Logix and SLC500 programmable controllers, course covers structured programming, Sequential Function Charts, networking, proportional integral differential control, data acquisition and interfacing. The course requires proposing, executing, and defending at the graduate level related to the course material project.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): EET 3373 or EE 3373
Covers fundamental production planning topics as capacity management, facility layout, process design and analysis, forecasting, inventory management, MRP, scheduling, and theory of constraints. Introduces basic lean concepts, lean production, and value stream mapping. Advanced topics include case studies and exploring the influence of machine learning, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and augmented/virtual reality fields on production planning.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate; Must be enrolled in one of the following Major(s): Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Eng-Eng Mechanics, Engineering Mechanics
Creating simulation models of various industrial systems in order to analyze and experiment with characteristics of real life systems for the purpose of engineering process improvement and production design.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
This course provides fundamental knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies as practiced in today's competitive manufacturing and business environments. It covers the basic concepts and key techniques involved in a lean implementation through hands-on activities, reading assignments, case studies, and discussions.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Examines the optimization concepts and safety topics necessary to design a low risk, high efficiency manufacturing facility layout. The focus will be on quantitative tools, flow analysis techniques, hazard recognition and resource selection.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
Topics include router and switch flow control; VolP, compression and load balancing; VPN networks involving MPLS, IPSEC and PPP; advanced access-list configuration; AAA; Kerberos; TACACS; firewalls; and configuration of advanced routing protocols.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, in even years
- Pre-Requisite(s): SAT 3343
Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Processes
Covers the components of a robot system, safety, concepts of a work-cell system, geometry, path control, automation sensors, programming techniques, hardware, and software.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): EET 1411 or EET 2121 or PH 2230 or EE 2111 or EE 3010
Procedures for setting up, teaching, testing, and modifying robot vision systems widely used in industrial automation. Introduces advanced Teach Pendant Programming to develop complex scenarios for integrating robots into industrial cells. Final project must demonstrate proficiency in setting up and programming an advanced robotic vision scenario.
- Credits: 4.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-3)
- Semesters Offered: Spring, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Level(s): Graduate
- Pre-Requisite(s): EET 4144 or EET 5144
An introduction to fluid power components and systems. The course includes component selection, circuit design, electrical interfaces, and system troubleshooting and maintenance. A laboratory exposes students to system hardware and circuit simulation techniques for mobile and industrial applications.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Fall
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore
- Pre-Requisite(s): MET 3400 or MEEM 3201 or MET 3130
This course covers electro-hydraulic components including solenoid operated valves, proportional valves, and servo valves. Also covered are hydraulic systems including open-loop and closed-loop.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Pre-Requisite(s): MET 4377
An introduction to advanced manufacturing processes, both traditional and nontraditional. Study of both theory and practice will be tied to laboratory experiments utilizing a spectrum of unique materials and methods.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-2-2)
- Semesters Offered: Spring
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Junior, Senior
- Pre-Requisite(s): MET 3500
This course examines the application of statistical quality control concepts to materials manufacturing, utilizing statistical inference relating processing, structure and properties. The concepts of uni- and multivariable and attribute control charts, process design and optimization are examined using various processing routes.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (3-0-0)
- Semesters Offered: Summer
- Restrictions: May not be enrolled in one of the following Class(es): Freshman, Sophomore, Junior
Quality Engineering
Introduction to the concepts and methods of quality and productivity improvement. Topics include principles of Shewhart, Deming, Taguchi; meaning of quality; control charts for variables, individuals, and attributes; process capability analysis; variation of assemblies; multi-variate situations; and computer-based workshops.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer
- 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
Introduces lean manufacturing tools, techniques, and practices. Topics include Muda, 5S, visual factory, VSM, theory of constraints, standardized work, pull system, SMED, TPM, and lean assessment. Additional case studies and manufacturing process simulation-based projects are also used for assessing and improving processes.
- 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; Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering, College of Business
Review of basic statistical concepts. Models for testing significance of one or many factors. Reducing experimental effort by incomplete blocks, and Latin squares. Factorial and fractional factorial designs. Response surface analysis for optimal response.
- Credits: 3.0
- Lec-Rec-Lab: (0-3-0)
- Semesters Offered: Fall, Summer
- Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following College(s): College of Engineering
- Pre-Requisite(s): MEEM 4901(C) or ENT 4950(C) or Graduate Status >= 1