Source (2025): https://calstatela.curriculog.com/proposal:17921/form

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

1. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
2. An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
3. An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
4. An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
5. An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
6. An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
7. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies

Fit with the Institutional Mission or Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILO) 

1. Knowledge Mastery of content and process of inquiry

The proposed minor in Mechanical Engineering will improve student expertise by extending their skills in Mechanical Engineering in their field of interest. The minor proposes a core to build their foundation in mechanical engineering and a choice of three electives to extend their skills in their domain of interest, which might be engineering Mechanics, Materials, Robotics, Thermofluid systems, or biomechanics among others. This minor will better prepare students to have a holistic approach and address modern engineering challenges and issues in their respective industries.

2. Proficiency: Intellectual skills

The new proposed minor will improve students’ engineering analysis and design skills through real-world design problems. The electives will strengthen holistic students within specific areas of mechanical engineering (i.e., Mechanics, Materials, Robotics, Thermofluid systems, biomechanics, and Machine Design) to strengthen their skill and proficiency in specific areas of mechanical engineering.

3. Place and Community: Urban and global mission

The minor proposed aims to better prepare students to have a transverse approach and address real-world engineering challenges that face our communities and global environment. Using real-world examples, students will be exposed to how their engineering decisions will impact society and how socially responsible engineering decisions are based on reliable engineering analysis knowledge and skills.

4. Transformation: Integrative learning:

The minor proposed will enhance students’ understanding of the world around them, providing them an opportunity for a more holistic approach. The change will reinforce their sense of why the products put forth by engineers are designed the way they are and how their integrated knowledge and skills will better serve society by engineering reliable and sustainable solutions for a rapidly changing world.