Graduate Handbook

For
Mechanical Engineering

University of Pittsburgh
http://www.me.pitt.edu/

Revised December 2011

i
THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING GRADUATE PROGRAM ..............................1
DEGREE PROGRAMS ......................................................................................................2
Master of Science Program ................................................................................................................. 2
Thesis Option (Research M.S.) ....................................................................................................... 2
Non-Thesis Option (Professional M.S.) ......................................................................................... 3
Subject Course Lists by Area .......................................................................................................... 3
Doctor of Philosophy Program………………………………………………………………………5
Plan of Study ................................................................................................................................... 5
Seminar ........................................................................................................................................... 5
Preliminary Examination for PhD (Qualifying Exam).................................................................... 5
Comprehensive Examination for PhD............................................................................................. 6
Doctoral Committee. ....................................................................................................................... 6
Application for PhD Candidacy ...................................................................................................... 6
PhD Dissertation Proposal .............................................................................................................. 6
PhD Dissertation ............................................................................................................................. 6
Final Oral Examination (Defense) .................................................................................................. 6
Dissertation/Thesis Copies .............................................................................................................. 7
Graduate Certificate in Nuclear Engineering ...................................................................................... 8
Overview ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Objectives........................................................................................................................................ 8
Requirements................................................................................................................................... 8
Who May Apply.............................................................................................................................. 9
How to Apply .................................................................................................................................. 9
Graduate certificate of Nuclear Engineering Admission Requirements ......................................... 9
Special Student Status ................................................................................................................... 10
Who to Contact ............................................................................................................................. 10
GRADUATE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING COURSES..........................................11
Masters Level Courses ...................................................................................................................... 11
Nuclear Engineering Course List (also count towards MSME and PhDME) ............................... 17
PhD Level Courses: .......................................................................................................................... 21
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING FACULTY .................................................................24
EXPERIMENTAL & COMPUTATIONAL FACILITIES .............................................27
GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................................33
Admission Procedures ...................................................................................................................... 33
English Language Proficiency ...................................................................................................... 34
Financial Aid ................................................................................................................................. 35
Tuition Costs and Fees .................................................................................................................. 36
Diversity and Sexual Harassment Training ...................................................................................... 36
Student Status ................................................................................................................................... 37
Registration Process.......................................................................................................................... 38
Registering for Full-Time Dissertation Study ............................................................................... 38
Academic Standards ......................................................................................................................... 40
University Grading Options .......................................................................................................... 41
Letter Grades ................................................................................................................................. 41
Registration Status at Graduation ..................................................................................................... 44
Certification for Graduation.............................................................................................................. 44
Commencement ................................................................................................................................ 45

ii
THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING GRADUATE PROGRAM

The Department of Mechanical and Materials Science offers graduate studies in advanced
mechanical sciences and technologies. The graduate faculty is committed to high-quality
research and teaching. The curriculum is an integrated program of study in applied sciences,
applied mathematics, and modern computational procedures that are relevant to the research
emphasis in the department. The research is focused on three major areas: (1) Energy
Technology: fluid mechanics, heat transfer, combustion, fuel cells, gas turbines, advanced
thermodynamics cycles and hybrid systems, transducers and control; (2) Smart Materials
and Devices: piezoelectric sensors and actuators, micro-electro-mechanical systems
(MEMS), shape memory alloys, radio-frequency energy harvesting, acoustics, and vibration
control; (3) Nanotechnology: process design and modeling, tribology, composite materials,
micro- and nano-fabrication and characterization methods.

-1-
DEGREE PROGRAMS

An application for either the MS or PhD program is judged on the student’s prior academic record,
GRE scores (required for PhD applicants), the accreditation of the prior degree granting school, and
the capability of the department to match the applicant’s interest with the program. A foreign
national student who did not receive his or her Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degree from
an accredited U.S. institution is required to take the TOEFL exam and receive a score of at least 550
(213 for the computer-based exam / 79-80 internet-based exam) or the International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) and receive a minimum result of Band 6.5 as well as the GRE.
GRE testing may also be required for applicants of the MS program if requested by the Graduate
Committee. Students with a Bachelor of Science degree in another engineering field, mathematics, or
physics will also be considered for the graduate program with the possibility that prerequisite courses
may be required. A part-time program is available for students who are employed in local industries.
Part-time students usually carry from three to six credits per term in either day or evening classes.

Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be considered on an individual basis with strong
emphasis given to academic promise, career orientation, work experience, and preparation in
engineering and related disciplines. In some cases, applicants may be admitted provisionally until
certain deficiencies in either coursework or academic achievement are satisfied.

Master of Science Program.

Upon entering, the student plans a program of study with the aid of the faculty advisor. The course
requirements can be met by either the

(1) Thesis Option (Research M.S.):

21 course credits
3 ME 2997
6 ME2999
30 Credits
Or the

(2) Non-Thesis Option (Professional M.S.): 30 course credits.

Thesis Option (Research M.S.)

Each candidate must provide a suitable number of copies of the thesis for review and use as
designated by the thesis examining committee, consisting of at least three members of the faculty
recommended by the major advisor and approved by the department chair. The major advisor must
be a Mechanical Engineering Faculty with an appointment in the Mechanical Engineering and
Materials Science Department. Nonnative English speakers are encouraged to take ENGR 2015
Technical Writing (however this course does not count toward graduation). The final oral
examination in defense of the master's thesis is conducted by the thesis committee, and a report of this
examination signed by all members of the committee must be filed in the office of the dean. After the
examination, the approved ETD must be deposited to the ETD Online System where it will be
reviewed by the ETD Student Services Staff in the dean's office of the student's school and submitted
for microfilming and deposit in the University Library System. A receipt for the ETD
processing/microfilming fees and any necessary paperwork must be submitted to the appropriate ETD
Staff in the Office of Administration.

-2-
Non-Thesis Option (Professional M.S.)

Professional master's degrees are conferred upon those students who demonstrate comprehensive
mastery of their general field of study. The professional master's degrees normally require the
satisfactory completion of at least 30 course credits of graduate study approved by the department.

No more than six credit hours may be granted to a student as transfer credit for work done at another
accredited graduate institution. (See Acceptance of Transfer Credits section for further detail.)
MS/MBA students are limited to transferring six credit hours. All credits earned in the ME master's
degree program must be at the graduate level (the 2000 or 3000 series courses).

Master's degrees are conferred only on those students who have completed all course
requirements with at least a 3.00 GPA.

(Visit http://www.bulletins.pitt.edu/graduate/index.html) for further detail.

http://www.bulletins.pitt.edu/graduate/index.html
In either case, students seeking the Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering must take at
least one of the mathematics courses, ME 2001, ME 2002 or ME / ECE 2646. Up to nine (six for
MS/MBA students) graduate credits from other engineering, mathematics, or physics departments
may be used in fulfilling the remaining course requirements. The MS/MBA students are also required
to complete an integrated project course. Please contact the Graduate Director for a copy of the
guidelines for the integrated project course.

Subject Course Lists by Area

ME 2001 Differential Equations

ME 2002 Linear and Complex Analysis
ME/ECE 2646 Linear Systems Theory

Materials,and Biomechanics
ME 2005 Structure of Materials
ME 2007 Elements of Materials Science and Engineering 1
ME 2008 Elements of Materials Science and Engineering 2 (Proposed)
ME 2009 Processing and Properties of Metals
ME 2010 Nanomechanics, Materials & Device
ME 2048 Engineering Alloys for Construction
ME 2060 Numerical Methods
ME 2062 Orthopaedic Engineering
ME 2064 Intro to Cell Mechanobiology
ME 2067 Musculoskeletal Biomechanics
ME 2069 Materials Science of Nanostructures
ME 2222 Nanoscale Modeling and Simulation: Molecular Dynamics
ME 2223 Nanoscale Modeling and Simulations: Density Functional Theory

Dynamic Systems
ME 2020 Mechanical Vibrations
ME 2027 Advanced Dynamics
ME 2042 Measurement and Analysis of Vibroacoustic Systems
ME 2045 Linear Control systems
ME 2046 Digital Control Systems
ME 2080 Introduction to MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS)
ME/ECE 2646 Linear Systems Theory
ME/ECE 2671 Optimization Methods
-3-
ME/ECE 3650 Optimal Control
ME 2082 Principles of Electromechanical Sensors & Actuators

Fluid Mechanics
ME 2003 Introduction to Continuum Mechanics
ME 2055 Computational Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer
ME 2070 Microfluidics
ME 2074 Advanced Fluid Mechanics

MEMS/NEMS
ME 2010 Nanomechanics, Materials & Device
ME 2049 Thermal Management in Electronic Systems
ME 2080 Introduction to MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS)
ME 2082 Principles of Electromechanical Sensors & Actuators
ME 2222 Nanoscale Modeling and Simulation: Molecular Dynamics
ME 2223 Nanoscale Modeling and Simulations: Density Functional Theory

Solid Mechanics
ME 2003 Introduction to Continuum Mechanics
ME 2004 Elasticity
ME 2010 Nanomechanics, Materials, and Device
ME 2022 Applied Solid Mechanics
ME 2033 Fracture Mechanics
ME 2047 Finite Element Analysis

Thermal systems
ME 2049 Thermal Management in Electronic Systems
ME 2050 Thermodynamics
ME 2053 Heat and Mass Transfer
ME 2055 Computational Fluid Dynamics and Heat Transfer
ME2056 Introduction to Combustion Theory
ME 2074 Advanced Fluid Mechanics
ME 2254 Nanoscale Heat Transfer

Nuclear
ME 2100 Fundamentals of Nuclear Engineering
ME 2101 Nuclear Core Dynamics
ME 2102 Nuclear Plant Dynamics and Control
ME 2103 Integration of Nuclear Plant Systems with the Reactor Core
ME 2104 Nuclear Operations Safety
ME 2105 Integrated Nuclear Power Plant Operations
ME 2110 Nuclear Materials
ME 2115 Heat Transfer & Fluid Flow In Nuclear Plants
ME 2120 Mathematical Modeling of Nuclear Plants
ME 2125 Case Studies in Nuclear Codes and Standards
ME 2130 Environmental Issues and Solutions for Nuclear Power

-4-
Doctor of Philosophy Program
An applicant is officially classified as a PhD student if he or she has been accepted into the PhD
program and:

(1) has received an accredited MS or equivalent degree; or

(2) has completed eight courses at the MS level in good academic standing and has been
granted permission to bypass the additional course work required for the MS degree.

Doctoral level courses are numbered in the 3000 series, but courses numbered in the 2000 series may
also be appropriate for doctoral study. Courses numbered below 2000 do not meet the minimum
requirements for doctoral study, although they may be taken to supplement a doctoral program.
Students must maintain a minimum cumulative QPA of 3.30 in courses to be eligible to take the
preliminary and comprehensive examinations as well as to graduate.

Plan of Study. During the first term in the doctoral program the student must submit a plan of study
for approval by the department. Minimum course requirements (beyond the MS or equivalent degree)
include:

30 credits for M.S. degree (or equivalent)

18 course credits at an advanced graduate level (Approval is required by the student’s
advisor and the graduate committee. Courses may NOT include: ME 2001, ME
2002, ME 2003, ME 2004, ME2007, ME 2020, ME 2022, ME 2047, ME 2053, ME
2060, ME 2074, ME2100, ME2125 and any course that is a dual
graduate/undergraduate course. Non-duplicating courses from other departments
may be allowed subject to approval.)
6 ME3997 – PhD Research
12 ME3999 – PhD Dissertation (after admission to PhD Candidacy)
61 additional credits approved by advisor and graduate committee
72 total credits

There will be no limits placed on the number of 3 credit hour ME3095 courses that can be counted as
“advanced graduate level” courses. However, the student and advisor must come up with a title and
paragraph description of the work that will be done for each instance along with the Plan of Study.

Seminar. PhD students are required to give one seminar each year, usually as part of the
departmental seminar series. The seminar topic should be chosen in consultation with the student’s
advisor.

Preliminary Examination for PhD (Qualifying Exam). The PhD preliminary examination is a
diagnostic examination based on Master of Science-level courses (or equivalent) to assess student’s
potential to complete the PhD program. It is not based on material covered in the PhD-level courses.

1. The student may sit for the exam a maximum of two times, and may only take it when
offered. The second sitting must be taken during the next scheduled offering of the
qualifying exam.
2. The exam is offered in five (5) subject areas: fluid mechanics, heat transfer, solid mechanics,
dynamics and vibrations, and mathematics. A student has passed the qualifying exam when
they have passed two areas.
3. Prior to sitting for an exam, the student must declare at most three (3) areas on which to be
tested. Declaring fewer than three (3) areas will be considered forfeiture and not passing of
those areas not attempted.

1
May include 2000-series courses excepted from the “advanced study” list
-5-
 4. In each area, the exam consists of two parts, a closed book written exam and an oral exam.
The student must pass both the written and oral parts of an area in one sitting.
5. The Graduate Committee will report the student's grade in those areas attempted. Students
should not expect a grade on written and oral parts.
6. It is expected that a student will take the exam as soon as practical after beginning Ph.D.
study. The student's first sitting should the first time the exam is offered after their first year
of PhD study.
7. Exceptions to these rules must meet the written approval of the students adviser in a letter
explaining the reason for the exception submitted to and approved by the MEMS Graduate
Committee
8. The MEMS Graduate Committee is the final arbiter regarding the Ph.D. Qualifying Exam

Comprehensive Examination for PhD. The comprehensive examination is administered by the

student’s advisor. This exam is given after the student has passed the preliminary examination and
completed all course requirements for the doctorate with a cumulative QPA of at least 3.0. A copy of
the comprehensive exam document, signed by the major advisor, must be submitted to the ME
Graduate Office. In no case may the comprehensive examination be taken in the same term in
which the student is to graduate.

Doctoral Committee.
The student’s major advisor proposes a dissertation committee. The doctoral committee must consist
of a minimum of four current members of the graduate faculty. At least three of these graduate
faculty members, including the major advisor, must be from the Mechanical Engineering Faculty in
the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science. At least one graduate faculty
member must be from another department. Other graduate and non-graduate faculty members may
also serve on the committee.

Application for PhD Candidacy. After passing the PhD comprehensive examination, the student
must apply for admission to candidacy before starting on a dissertation. To do this the student must
submit the blue “Application for PhD Candidacy” form to the ME Graduate Office to have the PhD
committee approved at least a month before the dissertation proposal meeting. If the committee is
approved by the School of Engineering, the form is returned to the department. The committee
members sign the form during the dissertation proposal meeting if they approve the proposed
research. The form is then submitted again to the ME Graduate Office.

PhD Dissertation Proposal. In this examination, the student presents and defends a proposal for
dissertation research to the doctoral committee. The members of the doctoral committee will review
the proposal and either accept, revise, or reject it. If the dissertation proposal is accepted by the
doctoral committee, the student is formally admitted to Candidacy for the Doctor of Philosophy
Degree. Students are allowed to take ME 3999 credits ONLY after being admitted to PhD
Candidacy. Admission to candidacy must occur at least one term before the student plans to
graduate.

PhD Dissertation. Each student must prepare a dissertation embodying an extended original,
independent investigation of a problem of significance in the student’s field of specialization. The
dissertation must add to the general store of knowledge or understanding in that field. After the
dissertation has been prepared and approved by the major advisor, the final oral examination shall be
held. Nonnative English speakers are encouraged to take ENGR 2015 Technical Writing (however
this course does not count toward graduation).

Final Oral Examination (Defense). This is the final examination of the PhD program, conducted by
the doctoral committee, in which the student defends the validity of and the contributions made by his
or her dissertation research as well as his or her ability to comprehend, organize, and contribute to the

-6-
chosen field of research. The examination need not be confined to materials in and related to the
dissertation. One copy of the dissertation must be submitted to each member of the doctoral
committee at least two weeks before the date set for the final oral examination. Other qualified
individuals may be invited by the committee to participate in the examination. This examination
begins with a seminar presented by the student that is open to all members of the University.
Therefore the date, place, and time of the examination should be published at least a week in advance
by submitting the dissertation title and abstract to the ME Graduate Office. Only members of the
doctoral committee may vote on whether the candidate has passed the examination. The student must
be registered in the term in which the degree is granted.

Dissertation/Thesis Copies. After the final oral examination is successfully completed, the
candidate must deposit with the department graduate office one bound copy of the approved
completed dissertation or thesis in final form. An additional copy may be required along with the
committee signature sheet, three copies of the title page, one original, and four copies of the abstract,
and the receipt for the binding fee must be deposited in the Engineering Office of Administration.
The student’s committee should have completed the dissertation rubric sheet and returned to the
Graduate Administrator. Thesis and dissertations are now accepted in electronic form. You should
speak with someone in the Office of Administration and refer to the following website for additional
information (http://www.pitt.edu/~graduate/etd).

Enroll in PhD Program

Pick Advisor
1st Semester for
1st Semester
students with a Pitt
MS; 1st year Develop Plan of Study
otherwise

Preliminary Exam

Comprehensive Exam

(These milestones
Form Committee
Next 1-2 years are often
combined in the
Application for Candidacy ME Grad. Prog.)

Proposal

At least Officially a “PhD

1 Candidate!”
semester
later.
Final Defense Take ≥12 credits ME3999

(All research was

Final Copies/Rubric Forms ME3997 until now)

End ☺
Figure 1. PhD Milestones and Timeline.

-7-
A list of PhD courses are given in the section GRADUATE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING COURSES. A
flow chart of the PhD Process is included in Figure 1.

Graduate Certificate in Nuclear Engineering

Overview
The renaissance of nuclear science and technology in the United States has created a need in the
marketplace once again for engineers with nuclear knowledge. The University of Pittsburgh aims to
meet these marketplace needs by preparing engineers through the graduate certificate in nuclear
engineering.

Classes are taught by current and former nuclear engineers, including faculty with experience
conducting commercial nuclear operations programs for Westinghouse and with certifications from
the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Objectives
The objectives of the nuclear engineering certificate are:

To develop the advanced competencies needed by science and engineering graduates to

contribute quickly and effectively to the renaissance of nuclear science and technology in the
United States and abroad, and

To create a benchmark educational program that can serve as a model throughout academia.
This program provides coursework for graduate level nuclear engineering education with a focus on
nuclear operations and safety. The certificate may be combined with graduate courses in any one of
the School’s seven MS degree programs (Bioengineering, Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Computer,
Industrial, Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering) or as a post-baccalaureate certificate. This
focus on nuclear operations and safety not only fulfills a recognized educational need, but is also
designed to take advantage of unique industrial resources in the Pittsburgh area which will greatly
facilitate student learning.

The program will be sufficiently flexible to accommodate students from a wide spectrum of
engineering disciplines. Since all nuclear courses are cross-listed as Mechanical Engineering
Courses, they count both toward a Nuclear Certificate and a MS or PhD degrees.

Requirements
Nuclear Certificates are conferred only on those students who have completed all course
requirements with at least a 3.00 GPA.
All students must successfully complete five of the following nuclear courses in order to earn the
graduate certificate:

• ME2100 Fundamentals of Nuclear Engineering

• ME2101 Nuclear Core Dynamics
• ME2102 Nuclear Plant Dynamics and Control
• ME2103 Integration of Nuclear Plant Systems with the Reactor Core
• ME2104 Nuclear Operations Safety
• ME2105 Integrated Nuclear Power Plant Operations
• ME2110 Nuclear Materials
• ME2115 Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in Nuclear Plants
• ME2120 Mathematical Modeling of Nuclear Power Plants
-8-
 • ME2125 Case Studies in Nuclear Codes and Standards
• ME2130 Environmental Issues and Solutions for Nuclear Power

(Course Descriptions available under Graduate Mechanical Engineering Courses)

Who May Apply

Practicing engineers currently in or aspiring to a leadership role in the nuclear industry,

Engineering professionals who desire graduate level education in nuclear engineering with a
focus on safe nuclear plant operations,

New graduates with a minimum of a bachelor's degree in a technical discipline, and

Professionals who manage multidisciplinary teams for project design or management in the
nuclear industry.

How to Apply

At the University of Pittsburgh, any student pursuing a Master’s degree in the Swanson School of
Engineering may pursue the graduate certificate in nuclear engineering as a focus track. It is also
possible for individuals who wish to achieve the certificate only to apply as well (post-
baccalaureate certificate). A minimum GPA of 3.0 for undergraduate degree is recommended.
To apply, please see below.

Graduate certificate of Nuclear engineering Admission Requirements

United States citizens or permanent residents should follow this procedure:

Print the forms available on the following website:

http://www.engr.pitt.edu/mems/graduate/nuclear-certificate_admissions.html. Indicate certificate
(and any other degrees in which you are interested in the application. Return the completed
application material with a check or money order (not cash) in the amount of $50 payable to the
University of Pittsburgh (The fee for a Special Student application is $50). The application fee is
non-refundable.

Ask the registrars of all undergraduate and graduate schools attended to send transcripts of records
to the School of Engineering Office of Administration, 749 Benedum Engineering Hall,
University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261. An official transcript of the undergraduate record
is required even though the applicant may not intend to work towards a degree. A graduate of the
University of Pittsburgh need not request the University registrar to send a transcript of the
undergraduate record.

Action will be taken after receipt of the completed application materials, including the application
fee, and complete transcripts of work done in previous undergraduate and graduate curricula. The
deadline for the fall term is March 1; the spring term deadline is July 1; and the summer term deadline
is February 1. We ask that International Students send in their application materials at least two
months before the posted deadlines. Applications received after the deadline will be considered on an
individual basis.

-9-
Special Student Status
Students who are seeking advanced degrees but who are unable to meet the deadline for filing all
required credentials for admission may be granted temporary admission provided they present
acceptable evidence concerning their qualifications for graduate study.

Regular admission must be accomplished within the first term of registration.

Students who are not seeking an advanced degree but who have specific qualifications for one or
more courses, including courses required for learning or certification, may register for such courses
subject to review by the department and the dean of the school. If a student should apply for
admission to a degree program, a maximum of 6 credits may be applied toward a graduate degree.

Who to contact
If you have questions about the curriculum, please contact Dr. John Metzger, Director of Nuclear
Programs, at [email protected], (412) 624-9799.

If you have questions about registration, please contact the Graduate Administrator, Ms. Carolyn
Chuha, at [email protected] or (412) 624-9722.

- 10 -
GRADUATE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING COURSES

Masters Level Courses

ME 2001 2 DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS 3 cr.

Ordinary differential equations; series solutions of differential equations; introduction to partial
differential equations.
Prerequisite: MATH0290 or equivalent.

ME 20023 LINEAR AND COMPLEX ANALYSIS 3 cr.

Linear analysis including linear algebra, vector spaces and linear transformations, and vector
analysis. Complex analysis including analytic functions of a complex variable, infinite series in
the complex plane, and conformal mapping. Calculus of variations.
Prerequisites: MATH0280, MATH0290 or equivalent.

ME 20033 INTRODUCTION TO CONTINUUM MECHANICS 3 cr.

The fundamental concepts of continuum mechanics necessary for studying the mechanical
behavior of solids and fluids. Includes a review of vectors and tensors; stress; strain and
deformation; general principles in the form of balance laws; constitutive equations and their
restrictions; and specialization to the theories of linearized elasticity and fluid mechanics. This
course is cross-listed as MSE2036.
Corequisite: ME2001.

ME 20043 ELASTICITY 3 cr.

Fundamental concepts of stress and strain. Linear theory: boundary value problems of elasticity
including plane stress, plane strain, and torsion. Elementary variational theory of elasticity.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2003.

ME 2005 STRUCTURE OF MATERIALS 3 cr.

Basic crystallography of materials; symmetry; point groups and space groups; tensor properties
of crystals; diffraction methods in materials science; atomic packing and structures; glassy
state, polycrystalline aggregates; grain boundaries and interfaces in materials; textures;
multiphase materials; quantitative stereology and microstructural characterization; thin films.
This course is cross-listed as MSE2003.
Prequisites: ENGR0022 or equivalent.

ME 2007 INTRODUCTION TO MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGR 1 3 cr.

Course is primarily designed for graduate students entering the program without a degree in a
field of materials engineering. Bonding and structure of materials; thermodynamics and phase
diagrams; imperfections in crystals; and rate processes. This course is cross-listed as MSE
2067.
Prerequisites: ENGR0022 or equivalent.

ME 2008 INTRODUCTION TO MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGR 2 3 cr.

Course is primarily designed for graduate students entering the program without a degree in a
field of materials. Mechanical properties: plastic deformation, mechanical properties and
microstructure control; high-temperature deformation; deformation of amorphous materials.
Electromagnetic properties; electrons in solids; electronic transport; junctions; magnetic
properties; dielectric and optical properties. This course is cross-listed as MSE 2068 Elements
of Materials Science and Engineering 2.
Prerequisites: ENGR0022 or equivalent.
ME 2009 PROCESSING AND PROPERTY OF METALS 3 cr.
2
Course is not considered to be at the “advanced graduate level” for PhD study.
- 11 -
This course is primarily designed for graduate students entering the program without a degree
in materials. Alloy design, strengthening mechanisms, mechanical properties: plastic
deformation, mechanical properties and microstructure control; high temperature deformation,
grain size control during reheating and during reformation.
Prerequisites: ME2007.

ME 2010 NANOMECHANICS, MATERIALS & DEVICES 3 cr.

This course is an introduction for current nanotechnology and fundamentals for
nanoengineering. It mainly contains three areas: nanomechanics, nanomaterials and nanoscaled
devices. In nanomechanics, it covers nanoindentation mechanics, thin film mechanics and one
dimensional nanowire mechanics, nano-crack mechanics, deformation in nanomaterials.
Nanomechanical model will be emphasized. In nanomaterials, it covers carbon nanotubes, one
dimensional semi-conducting nanowires and nano-multilayers as well as nanostructured
composites. Novel property/phenomena in the nanomaterials will be reviewed. Nano-scaled
mechanical/electromechanical/optical testing on the nanomaterials will be presented. Potential
application of the nanomaterials for the nanodevices such as gas/optical sensors, actuators, as
well as nano-force sensors will be discussed. This course is cross-listed as MSE2037.
No prerequisites.

ME 20203 MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS 3 cr.

Analysis of linear multi-degree of freedom systems. Lagrangian formulation, model analysis,
lumped parameter analysis of discrete systems, and continuous system vibrations. Introduction to
non-linear systems.
Prerequisites: MATH0290, MEMS1014 or equivalent.

ME 20223 APPLIED SOLID MECHANICS 3 cr.

Covers fundamental, classical, and advanced topics in mechanics of materials. These include but
are not limited to theories and relationships of stress and strain, energy methods, elementary
plasticity, thermal stresses, elasticity problems in axial, torsion, bending, and 2D problems. This
course is cross-listed as MSE2038.
Prerequisites: ENGR0145 or MEMS1028 or equivalent.

ME 2027 ADVANCED DYNAMICS 3 cr.

Kinematics and dynamics of rigid bodies, Euler’s equations and Euler angles, the elementary
calculus of variations, the development of Lagrange’s equations and the principle of virtual work
as used in Kane’s equations, stability of mechanical systems as applied to a single rotating body.
Prerequisite: MEMS1015 or equivalent.

ME 2033 FRACTURE MECHANICS FOR PRODUCT DESIGN & MFG. 3 cr.

Failure of manufactured products in service, implications for design. Energy release rates,
toughness, evaluation of experimental tests. Fracture mechanisms in different material systems.
Fracture toughness testing. Materials selection. Damage tolerance. Design studies. This course is
cross-listed with MSE2032.
Prerequisite: ENGR 0145 or equivalent.

ME2041 EXPERIMENTAL MECHANICS 3 cr.

Stress determination from strain measurements, strain measuring devices and systems; variable
resistance strain gages with emphasis on circuits, calibration, compensation, static, and dynamic
application; stress analysis in Bio and MEMS systems. Force measurement in the Micro- and
Nano-Newton level in Bio and Micro-systems by optical and piezoelectric techniques.
Prerequisite: ENGR 0145 or equivalent.

ME2042 MEASUREMENT & ANALYSIS OF VIBRO-ACOUSTIC 3 cr.

- 12 -
 SYSTEMS
This course will present measurement and analysis techniques for dynamic systems, with
particular emphasis on mechanical vibrations and acoustics. Background on vibration of lumped
and continuous parameter systems, acoustics, noise and vibration control will be given. Other
concepts include FFTs, windowing, calculation of input/output relationships, test methods,
transducers, instrumentation, and the use of dynamic signal analyzers. Application to system
identification and modal analysis will be included, as well as hardware demonstrations.
Prerequisite: MEMS1020 or ME2020.

ME 2045 LINEAR CONTROL SYSTEMS 3 cr.

Control systems analysis and design techniques are presented for wide range of dynamic systems
through the use of modern control tools. Builds upon the foundation of classical feedback control
theory. Tools will be developed for analyzing and designing controllers for multi-input, multi-
output dynamic systems, including state space, controllability and observability, stability, and
state estimation. Design problems with hands-on experience.
Prerequisite: MEMS1014 or equivalent.

ME 2046 DIGITAL CONTROL SYSTEMS 3 cr.

This course provides the tools necessary to analyze and design discrete time (digital computer)
control systems for real-time control of dynamic systems, using both transform and state space
approaches. Topics include the z-transform, relationships between the
z-domain and Laplace domain, characteristics of sampled-data systems including sample rate
and quantization effects. Emphasis is on design of digital controllers for dynamic systems.
Prerequisite: ME2045

ME 20473 FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS 3 cr.

Finite element method is introduced and applied to problems in two-dimensional elasticity, plates,
heat transfer, and transient structural mechanics.
Prerequisites: ENGR0135, MEMS1028 or equivalent.

ME 2048 ENGINEERING ALLOYS FOR CONSTRUCTION 3 cr.

The goal of this course is to understand modern metallic alloys used in construction. To
accomplish this goal, the following sequence is offered: Review of physical metallurgy
principles: thermodynamics, kinetics, phase and phase transformations; microstructure and
properties of stainless steels, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, nickel and cobalt-based
superalloys and alloys for nuclear core applications.
Prerequisites: ENGR0022 or equivalent.

ME 2049 THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS 3 cr.

This course reviews the prevalent thermal management techniques commonly employed to
mitigate overheating of electronic systems. The primary goal of this course is to gain fundamental
understanding of the following topics: thermal spreading, contact resistance, free and forced
convection, radiation, fins and heat sinks, phase change materials,
boiling/condensation/immersion cooling, jet impingement, heat pipes, and microchannels. The
secondary goal is to acquire the ability to apply this knowledge to real applications including
computing and communication systems as well as military and medical electronic systems.

ME 2050 THERMODYNAMICS 3 cr.

This course introduces the basic concepts and principles of thermodynamics. Topics include the
construction of tables of thermodynamic properties, the design and optimization of energy
conversion devices, the elements of chemical thermodynamics, and the elements of
non-equilibrium thermodynamics.

- 13 -
Prerequisites: MEMS0051, MEMS1051 or equivalent.

ME 20533 HEAT AND MASS TRANSFER 3 cr.

Steady-state and transient conduction in solids; conservation laws of mass, momentum, and
energy; forced and free convection heat transfer, condensation and boiling; and thermal radiation.
Prerequisite: MEMS1052 or equivalent.

ME 2055 COMPUTER-AIDED ANALYSIS IN TRANSPORT PHENOMENA 3 cr.

This course provides an introduction to implementation of some of the numerical/computational
methods for solving problems in transport phenomena. Fields described by linear and non-linear
ordinary differential equations (initial & boundary value problems), and partial differential
equations (elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic) will be considered by means of various examples
from fluid dynamics, heat & mass transfer, and combustion. Numerical discretization techniques
based on Finite Difference Methods (FDM) will be the subject of main discussions.
Prerequisites: ENGR0012, MEMS0051 or equivalent.

ME 2056 INTRODUCTION TO COMBUSTION THEORY 3 cr.

This course presents an introduction to combustion theory, covering the general solution
techniques associated with combustion phenomena. It covers preparatory materials such as
chemical thermodynamics, heat and mass transfer, and conservation equations for multi-
component reacting systems. The primary emphasis of the course is to prepare a foundation for
the student who has not previously studied combustion phenomena.
Prequisite: ME1052.

ME 20603 NUMERICAL METHODS 3 cr.

Introduction to numerical techniques for the solution of linear and non-linear equations,
numerical integration and differentiation, interpolation, ordinary and partial differential equations,
and eigenvalue problems.
Prerequisites: MATH0290 or equivalent and computer programming experience.

ME 2062 ORTHOPAEDIC ENGINEERING 3 cr.

This is an advanced course that applies mechanics of materials, material failure theories and rigid
body dynamics to orthopaedic device design, tissue mechanical modeling and surgical procedure
evaluation. The course is meant to provide an introductory background to engineering aspects of
orthopaedic medicine and biomechanics for students preparing for medical school, positions in the
medical device industry or graduate studies in this field.
Prerequisites: ENGR0145 or equivalent.

ME 2064 INTRO TO CELL MECHANOBIOLOGY 3 cr.

The objective of this course is to provide an overview and a basic understanding of cell
mechanobiology. The materials that will be covered in this introductory course include; 1) Stress,
strain, and deformation: uniaxial and biaxial loading, hydrostatic pressure; 2) Fluid shear stress;
3) Cell structure and function; 4) Basic cell & molecular techniques; 5) Effects of mechanical
forces on cells; 6) Mechanotransduction; and 7) Applications of cell mechanobiology to tissue
engineering.
Prerequisite: ME2003.

ME 2067 MUSCULOSKELETAL BIOMECHANICS 3 cr.

Course work will include the structure, function, and mechanics of the musculoskeletal system.
Specific topics will include the kinematics and control of human movement and the mechanics of
the musculoskeletal connective tissues, such as ligament, tendon, bone, cartilage, and muscle.
Special emphasis will be placed on the relationship between function and material properties of
these tissues. A research paper will be required as a term project.

- 14 -
No prerequisites.

ME 2069 MATERIALS SCIENCE OF NANOSTRUCTURES 3 cr.

A graduate level course that reviews the theories and phenomena associated with solid structures
that lie in the nano- (or meso-) scale regime from 1 to 1000 nm. Engineered structures of these
dimensions have unique properties due to their size, including 1) surface and interface-dominated
energy considerations governing shape and phase formation, 2) optical interactions due to
confinement effects, 3) unique electronic/quantum effects due to confinement. The course will
survey the issues associated with creation, analysis, and theoretical modeling of these structures-
with a materials science (kinetics-thermodynamics) perspective. Some topics may vary from
semester to semester.
No prerequisite.

ME2070 MICROFLUIDICS 3 cr.

The basic hypotheses in the micro-scale fluid mechanics may no longer be applicable in micro or
even smaller scale. The objectives of this course are to; identify dominant forces and their
effects in micro-scale fluid systems that are different from those in the macro-scale, to
understand the fundamentals of microfluidic phenomena, to discuss various microfluidic
applications in research and commercial levels, and to explore new possible microfluidic
applications in the emerging fields.
Prerequisite: ME 1072 or equivalent.

ME 20743 ADVANCED FLUID MECHANICS 1 3 cr.

First graduate-level course in viscous fluid flow. Elementary solutions to Navier-Stokes
equations, laminar and turbulent flows, boundary layers.
Prerequisites: ME 2001, 2003.

ME 2080 INTRO. TO MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS (MEMS) 3 cr.

Aimed to provide basic understanding of microfabrication processes, fundamentals of
MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) technologies.
Prerequisites: ENGR0145, MEMS1014, MEMS0031 or equivalent.

ME 2082 PRINCIPLES OF ELECTROMECHANICAL SENSORS 3 cr.

& ACTUATORS
The objective of this course is to provide a thorough understanding of the various mechanisms
that can be exploited in the design of electromechanical sensors and actuators. These
transduction mechanisms include transduction based on changes: 1) in the energy stored in the
electric field; 2) in the energy stored in the magnetic field; 3) piezoelectricity & pyroelectricity;
4) linear inductive transduction mechanisms; and 5) resistive transduction mechanisms. Will also
discuss various transduction materials, sensors and actuators from a wide range of applications.
Prerequisites: ME1014 and ME1020/2020 or equivalent, ME2001.

ME 2085 GRADUATE SEMINAR 0 cr.

Designed to acquaint graduate students with various subjects in advanced mechanics and current
graduate-level research mechanical engineering; aspects of graduate-level engineering and
applied mechanics not normally encountered in classes.

ME 2094 PRACTICUM 1 cr.

This course is designed to provide students who are engaged in thesis or dissertation research an
opportunity to participate in an internship with an external organization (industry or government
laboratory). The internship must be related to the thesis or dissertation research. See more
detailed description on the following page. Prerequisites: Approval of advisor and Graduate
Director.

- 15 -
ME 2095 GRADUATE PROJECTS 1 to15 cr.
A special problem or reading course of individual study guided by the student’s major advisor.
Topics selected from any phase of mechanical engineering not covered in the regular MS-level
courses.

ME 2097 SPECIAL STUDY 3 cr.

Special topics of particular importance to an individual’s plan of study.
Prerequisite: Approval of advisor.

ME 2222 NANOSCALE MODELING AND SIMULATION:

MOLECULAR DYNAMICS 3cr.
The course covers the essentials of molecular dynamics simulation by integrating theories
from dynamics, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, continuum mechanics, and quantum
mechanics. Topics include heat bath methods, time integration methods, accelerated
methods, and different applications related to nanotechnology. Students gain hands-on
experience using state-of-the-art simulation software.
Prerequisites: ENGR 0022, ENGR 0135, ENGR 0145, and MEMS 1015 or equivalent

ME 2254 NANONSCALE HEAT TRANSFER 3cr.

This course will cover microscopic concepts and methodology in energy transport
phenomen at nanometer scales, including equilibrium statistics, Boltzmann
transport equation, and nano/microscale heat conduction and radiation, with
applications in cutting edge nanotechnology.
Prerequisites: MEMS1051, MEMS1052 or equivalent.

ME/ECE 2646 LINEAR SYTEMS THEORY 3cr.

Linear spaces and operators, mathematical descriptions of linear systems,
controllability and observability, irreducible realization of rational transfer-function
matrices, canonical forms, state feedback and state estimators, stability.
Prerequisites: Knowledge of linear algebra, differential equations, and feedback control systems

ME/ECE 2671 OPTIMIZATION METHODS 3cr.

Analytical and computational aspects of finite dimensional optimization, unconstrained and
equality constrained problems, basic descent methods, conjugate direction methods, nonlinear
programming and the Kuhn-Tucker theorem, linear programming, dynamic programming,
multicriteria optimization.

ME 2997 MS RESEARCH 3 cr.

Students prepare a literature survey on a major research problem and submit an outline for future
work on the Master of Science thesis.

ME 2999 MS THESIS 1-12 cr.

- 16 -
Nuclear Engineering Course List (also count towards MSME and PhDME)

ME2100 FUNDAMENTALS OF NUCLEAR ENGINEERING 3 cr.

Provides an introduction to application of theory to practical aspects of nuclear science and
technology. It is intended as a ramp-up course for non-nuclear engineers who wish to pursue a
graduate level Certificate in Nuclear Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. Graduate level
content will be assured by use of open-ended assignments and group discussions via an electronic
blackboard. The course is designed to accommodate working adults who must travel from time
to time. Topics will include 1) introduction, a grand tour of the nuclear fuel cycle, 2) power
reactors and nuclear systems, 3) atomic and nuclear physics: the Einstein connection, 4) nuclear
reactions and radiation: the life and trials of a neutron, 5) radiation and radiation protection:
radiation realism, 6) nuclear reactor theory: from complex to simple, 7) reactor kinetics and
control: thanks for delayed neutrons, 8) reactor energy removal: the balance between resilience
and power density, 9) power conversion systems and the balance of plant: from neutrons to
electricity, 10) accidents and lessons learned.
Prerequisite: BS degree in technical field, MATH0290 or equivalent.

ME2101 NUCLEAR CORE DYNAMICS 3 cr.

This course reviews the mathematics of nuclear reactor kinetics. Linear systems of ordinary
differential equations are solved by state vector techniques, Laplace transform techniques, or
finite difference techniques including the treatment of discretization errors resulting from various
finite differencing approximations. A review of the physics of nuclear kinetics is followed by
treatments of the kinetics equations including the effect of uncertainties, approximate solutions,
and the interpretation of experiments to measure kinetics parameters. Representations and the
physical basis of reactivity feedback mechanisms are treated. Lumped and distributed parameter
models of fuel, coolant, fission products are derived and applied to develop quantitative static
relationships and qualitative dynamic results for transient conditions. The course provides an
introduction to space dependent reactor kinetics.
Pre-req: ENGR/ME 2100 or an undergraduate degree in nuclear engineering, work experience in
nuclear engineering or instructor's permission

ME2102 NUCLEAR PLANT DYNAMICS AND CONTROL 3 cr.

This course provides an integrated engineering examination of a nuclear power plant from the
perspective of instrumentation and control systems used to infer the condition of the nuclear
plants and its systems, control its normal operation, and provide protection during transient
situations as well as assess core damage during severe accident situations. Students will apply
previous knowledge of analog, digital, and microprocessor electronics techniques to nuclear
power plant design and operation and reactor protection and safety considerations that influence
the design of the reactor plant. A major outcome of this course will be an integrated
understanding of the interaction between the physics of nuclear plant control (reactivity and heat
balance) and the control and protection systems. This integrated plant understanding will be
essential for the successful completion of the Integrated Nuclear Power Plant Operations course.
Prerequisite: ME 2101.

ME2103 INTEGRATION OF NUCLEAR PLANT SYSTEMS 3 cr.

WITH THE REACTOR CORE
This course examines design bases for major systems and components in a nuclear plant and
evaluates how the systems function in an integrated fashion. The student will examine a typical
nuclear power plant and those components and systems of the nuclear plant complex that have the
potential for affecting core power, and whose failure could be an initiating event for a plant
transient. Dynamic relationships for the systems developed in the companion nuclear courses
will be transformed into stable, numerical algorithms for computer solutions and system
interactions will be illustrated using a major industry transient analysis code. Emphasis is on how

- 17 -
operations of and faults in systems and components can influence reactivity and core behavior.
Through classroom discussions the students will assess engineering problems and operational
problems that have been experienced in historical nuclear plant operations. The intended
outcome is an aptitude for predicting complex transient behavior of the integrated nuclear plant
considering factors that are important for safe and efficient operation: reactivity management and
control, coolant inventory control, and core heat removal.
Prerequisite: ME 2100 or instructors permission.

ME2104 NUCLEAR OPERATIONS SAFETY 3 cr.

This course reviews the development of reactor safety concepts, the emergence of safety
strategies and culture, and the perspectives of severe accidents and how they can be mitigated.
Risk-influenced regulatory practices will be introduced and quantitative use of probabilistic risk
assessment will be described in terms of its use as a guide to intelligent decision-making. The
characteristics of accident progression in the reactor vessel and containment in the unlikely event
of core melting and relocation of fuel material will be explained. Offsite impacts of such severe
accidents will be introduced. Source terms, dispersion of radionuclides, and dose projections will
be developed for both conservative and realistic evolutions. Protective actions and emergency
preparedness will be introduced. This course will cover the regulatory aspects of nuclear
operations and the roles that the NRC, INPO, WANO and the IAEA play and what impact each
has on plant operations. An introduction into regulatory requirements, the Safety Analysis Report,
nuclear safety and licensing, and whistle-blower rules will be provided.
Prerequisite: ME 2100.

ME2105 INTEGRATED NUCLEAR POWER PLANT OPERATIONS 3 cr.

This course provides a capstone hands-on-simulator and classroom experience to promote
understanding how the integrated plant works and what challenges the operator faces, and to help
an engineer “speak operations” with the interfacing groups. Use of the simulator is an effective
way for students to understand accident control and Emergency Operating Procedures, and how
the control room interfaces with the rest of the plant. Emphasis is placed on understanding plant
characteristics and controls, rather than on developing control manipulation skills. Intended
outcomes are an aptitude for predicting transient behavior of the integrated plant and a command
of reactivity management and control that is important for efficient operation of a nuclear plant
complex. The course presumes knowledge of the major systems in a nuclear power plant and will
emphasize how operations of and faults in those systems and components can affect reactivity
and core transient behavior.
Prerequisites: ME2102, and ME2103.

ME2110 NUCLEAR MATERIALS 3 cr.

This course presumes that students have the knowledge base needed to understand materials
issues associated with the design and operation of nuclear power plants, such as basic concepts of
physical metallurgy, a mechanistic and microstructural-based view of material properties, and
basic metallurgical principles. This course will cover the metallurgy and phase diagrams of alloy
systems important in the design of commercial nuclear power plants. The micro-structural
changes that result from reactor exposure (including radiation damage and defect cluster
evolution) are discussed in detail. The aim is to create a linkage between changes in the material
microstructure and changes in the macroscopic behavior of the material. Also discussed is the
corrosion of cladding materials as well the effects of irradiation on corrosion performance, as
well as the effects of primary and secondary coolant chemistry on corrosion. Both mathematical
methods and experimental techniques are emphasized so that theoretical modeling is guided by
experimental data. Materials issues in current commercial nuclear reactors and materials issues in
future core and plant designs are covered.
Prerequisite: An undergraduate course in material science or permission of the instructor.

- 18 -
ME2115 HEAT TRANSFER & FLUID FLOW IN NCULEAR PLANTS 3 cr.
This course provides advanced knowledge to promote understanding and application of thermal
and hydraulic tools and procedures used in reactor plant design and analysis. It assumes that the
student has a fundamental knowledge base in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer and
reactor thermal analysis. The focus of the course is on physical and mathematical concepts useful
for design and analysis of light water nuclear reactor plants. Applications of mass, momentum,
and energy balances are combined with use of water properties to analyze the entire reactor plant
complex as a whole. Principles are applied through the application of major industry codes to
specific cases.
Prerequisite: An undergraduate course in heat transfer and fluid flow or permission of the
instructor.

ME2120 MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF NUCLEAR PLANTS 3 cr.

Graduate students will develop the graphics/simulation framework and the underlying
mathematical models for simulating nuclear power plants in ME/ENGR2120 mathematical
modeling of nuclear plants. Models will be developed in MATLAB/Simulink™ and configured to
run on a PC so that students can both examine the mathematical models on which the simulation is
based and use the simulation program in the laboratory-like sessions to study the effect of design
changes on plant behavior. The simulation model fidelity developed is suitable for educational
purposes and provides students with a desktop tool to realistically model and better understand
reactor performance under various conditions. While it would not be intended to replace or
duplicate the high-fidelity dynamic simulation used in major accident analysis codes such as
RELAP, TRAC, and TRACE, the course will provide the student with an introduction and a
working knowledge what is embodied in these industry standard codes.

ME 2125 CASE STUDIES IN NUCLEAR CODES AND STANDARDS 3 cr.

ME2130 ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS 3 cr.

FOR NUCLEAR POWER
This course will be developed in conjunction with University of Pittsburgh faculty with an
interest in environmental issues impacting the nuclear power industry including School of
Engineering faculty involved with the Mascaro Sustainability Initiative, faculty from the
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and faculty from the Graduate School of
Public and International Affairs. The course will address such topics as sustainable energy
resources, engineering and societal ethical concerns, risk analysis, and future energy supplies in
general and as each of these topics relates to such specific issues as the nuclear fuel cycle, nuclear
reactor safety, nuclear waste disposal and transportation, and GEN IV and the hydrogen
economy. Students will better understand the socio-economic issues surrounding achieving a
sustainable nuclear power future as it impacts fuel acquisition, plant operation and waste disposal.

ME 2094 Practicum
Having internships with industry and research laboratories provides graduate students a great
opportunity to complement their studies with practical training. The course, ME 2094—Practicum, is
a formal mechanism for full time graduate students who have obtained an internship with an external
organization (industry or government research laboratory) to carry out that internship. The internship
must be related to the student’s thesis/dissertation research.

Requirements and restrictions for ME2094:

o The student must be enrolled as a full time graduate student in the Mechanical Engineering
Department.

- 19 -
 o The student cannot be holding a teaching assistantship or research assistantship in the term
the internship is conducted.
o International students must obtain the appropriate employment authorization through the
Office of International Services BEFORE they may begin paid employment.
o The student must start the internship in the term for which it is registered.
o The internship must last for at least 12 weeks.
o The student must receive approval for the internship by the Graduate Director prior to
registering for ME2094.
o The student must be on the MS Thesis or PhD track. If the student switches from the MS
Thesis track to the Professional MS track, the ME2094 credits will not count towards his or
her MS requirements.
o A student can register for ME2094 three different times for a maximum of three credits (1
credit max per term).
o Faculty advisor must be willing to recommend and oversee the student’s internship. Student
must submit a report to their faculty advisor at the end of the internship and must receive a
satisfactory (S) grade to receive credit.

Registration Steps for ME 2094:

1. Find a qualifying organization willing to conduct the internship.
2. Obtain Internship Agreement Form and guidelines from the graduate office.
3. Fill out the internship agreement form and have your advisor sign it and then submit it to the
Graduate Director. The Agreement Form must include a statement from the employer, and
for international students a certification from the Office of International Services indicating
that you satisfy the requirements for practical training as set by the University and the
Immigration and Naturalization Service.
4. Once the Internship Agreement Form has been approved by the Graduate Director, you can
register for ME2094 for the specified term.

- 20 -
PhD Level Courses:

ME 3003 THEORY OF CONTINOUS MEDIA 3 cr.

Kinematics of deformation, compatibility, material rates and relative deformation; analysis of
stress; balance equations; constitutive equations for simple materials, isotropy group elastic
solids, and viscous fluids.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2003, ME2004, ME2074

ME 3004 ADVANCED ELASTICITY 3 cr.

Advanced topics in linearized elasticity including solutions of fundamental problems in three-
dimensions, complex variable methods, and elastodynamics. Introduction to nonlinear elasticity
including finite deformations and constitutive theory.
Prerequisite: ME2001, ME2004

ME 3006 INELASTICITY 3 cr.

Plasticity including physical and experimental foundations; notion of plastic strain; yielding and
yield surfaces; loading and unloading; flow rules; perfectly plastic hardening and softening
behavior; plane strain rigid-perfectly plastic slip-line theory. Viscoelasticity including methods
of specifying viscoelastic properties of materials; formulation and some basic solutions in
viscoelastic stress analysis; experimental methods.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2003, ME2004, ME3003

ME 3007 ENERGETICS 3 cr.

The objectives of this course are to understand and apply the theory of Thermodynamics and
transport properties, to distinguish the thermodynamics of properties from the thermodynamics of
systems, to acquire the capacity to calculate properties from a minimal set of experimental data,
and to gain the ability to estimate properties based on chemical behavior. Topics include
derivation of the Gibbs Equations and Maxwell relations, advanced equations of state, molecular
structure and fugacity, mixing rules, and vapor-liquid equilibrium calculations.
Prerequisite: ME2001

ME 3021 MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS 2 3 cr.

Advanced analysis of discrete and continuous system vibrations; variational characterizations of
eigenvalues, elements of linear operator theory, approximate methods of solution, and finite
element techniques in vibrations.
Prerequisite: ME2020.

ME 3023 COMPOSITES 3 cr.

Anisotropic linear elasticity, laminates; basic micromechanics of particulate and fiber reinforced
materials and polycrystalline aggregates; the inclusion problem; Hashin-Shtrikman bounds and
estimates of overall moduli; strength; microcracking and damage.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2003, and ME2004.

ME 3036 ADVANCED FRACTURE MECHANICS 3 cr.

Asymptotic crack tip fields in linear elastic fracture mechanics leading to the stress intensity
factor, energy release rate, and crack tip opening displacement characterizations; elastic-plastic
fracture mechanics in both small-scale yielding and large-scale yielding characterized by path
independent integrals; micromechanics of fracture; fracture along bimaterial interfaces.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2004.

- 21 -
ME 3047 ADVANCED FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS 3 cr.
Stability and accuracy analysis of time integration methods for first- and second-order finite
element systems; theory of beam and plate elements; elastic-plastic finite element analysis.
Prerequisite: ME2004, ME2047.

ME 3052 CONDUCTION HEAT TRANSFER 3 cr.

Study of conduction in continuous media by analytical and numerical methods. Analytical
methods include series solution, superposition, Duhamel’s theorem, and Laplace transforms.
Numerical methods include finite differences, finite elements, and response factors.
Prerequisites: ME2001, ME2060.

ME 3054 CONVECTION HEAT TRANSFER 3 cr.

Derivation of general governing equations using tensor notation; heat transfer in laminar and
turbulent flows; incompressible and compressible thermal boundary layers; advanced solution
methods for convective heat transfer.
Prerequisites: ME2074.

ME 3055 MULTIPHASE FLOW 3 cr.

Study of the fluid mechanics and heat transfer processes in multiphase systems; steady-state and
transient models; boiling regimes; and a variety of correlations relations for void, critical
phenomena, and flow regimes.
Prerequisites: ME 2053, ME2060, and ME2074.

ME 3066 MATHEMATICAL TOPICS IN FLUID MECHANICS 3 cr.

The objective of this course is to introduce the students to the mathematical theory of the
Navier-Stokes initial-boundary value problem and to some of the solved and unsolved
fundamental questions. In this course, after deriving the Navier-Stokes equations from the
general continuum theory, we shall prove the main known results of existence, uniqueness
and regularity of solutions to the corresponding initial-boundary value problem. Moreover,
we shall present a number of significant open questions and explain why the current
mathematical approaches fail to answer them.

ME 3075 HYDRODYNAMIC STABILITY 3 cr.

Global stability and uniqueness, Stuart-Landau theory, introduction to bifurcation theory, thermal
instability, inertial instability, stability of parallel shear flow.
Prerequisite: ME2001, ME2074

ME 3078 VISCOUS FLUIDS 3 cr.

Properties and exact solutions of the Navier-Stokes equation; dynamic similarity, limiting values
of the Reynolds number, regular singular perturbations, Stokes and Oseen flows and boundary
layer theory; stability of laminar flow.
Prerequisite: ME2001, ME2003, ME2074

ME 3079 TURBULENCE 3 cr.

Definitions and equations of turbulent flow, correlations, scales of turbulence; differential
equations, spectrum and decay of isotropic turbulence; non-isotropic turbulence, mathematical
models and transport processes.
Prerequisite: ME2001, ME2074

ME 3081 NON-NEWTONIAN FLUIDS 3 cr.

Kinetics of viscoelastic fluids, viscometric flows, motions with constant stretch history. Simple
fluids, constitutive models of differential type and of integral type. Stability and uniqueness.
Prerequisite: ME2001, ME2003, ME2074

- 22 -
ME 3090 SPECIAL TOPICS IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 3 cr.
Special topics of current interest to students and faculty presented by a member of the faculty. By
special request only.

ME 3095 GRADUATE PROJECTS 3 cr.

A special problems or reading course of individual study guided by the student’s major advisor.
Topics selected from any phase of mechanical engineering not covered in the regular PhD-level
courses.

ME/ECE 3650 OPTIMAL CONTROL 3 cr.

Variation calculus and optimality conditions, linear quadratic problems, the Riccati equation,
Pontryagin maximum principle, time-optimal control, dynamic programming and the Hamilton-
Jacobi equation, numerical methods, decentralized control, multicontroller-multiobjective
systems, differential games.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of linear system theory (ME/ECE 2646)

ME 3997 PhD RESEARCH 1–12 cr.

Research methods and procedures. Students are assigned a problem and are required to prepare a
plan of attack including a literature survey for a research problem that can meet the dissertation
requirement.

ME 3999 PhD DISSERTATION 1-15 cr.

- 23 -
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING FACULTY

The opportunity to work on interesting research problems under the tutelage of experienced and
involved faculty is an important feature of graduate study in Mechanical Engineering at the
University of Pittsburgh. Our faculty has interests in a broad range of topics. More information can
be obtained from the Departmental website: http://www.engineering.pitt.edu/MEMS/People/Faculty/ .

Sung Kwon Cho, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
Micro-Electro-Mechanical systems (MEMS), Bio-MEMS, Microfluidics
Ph.D., Seoul National University

Minking Chyu, Leighton Orr Professor and Chairman of Mechanical Engineering and Materials
Science
Heat Transfer, Gas Turbines, Microsystem Technologies
Ph.D., University of Minnesota

William W. Clark, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Smart Materials & Structures, Vibration Control
Ph.D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Daniel G. Cole, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Dynamic Systems, Measurement, and Control
Ph.D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Giovanni P. Galdi, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Theoretical Fluid Mechanics, Stability
Degree in Physics, University of Naples, Italy

Peyman Givi, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Turbulence, Combustion, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Propulsion, and Stochastic Processes
Ph.D., Carnegie Mellon University

Mark Kimber, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Energy accountability and sustainability in electronic equipment, energy efficient and biomimetic
methods of propulsion, and thermal hydraulics in nuclear energy generation.
Ph.D., Purdue University

Scott X. Mao, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Nanomechanical behavior of materials, materials science, microelectromechanical systems
(MEMS) and microfabrication; and piezoelectric/ferroelectric nanowires for sensor and nano-
device applications, atomic force microscope and nanomechanics.
Ph.D., Tohuku University

Mark C. Miller, Research Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
Dynamics of Human Movement
Ph.D. in Applied Mechanics, University of Michigan

Anne M. Robertson, Associate Professor

Newtonian & Non-Newtonian Fluids, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Constitutive Theories,
Flow in Curved Pipes, and Biofluid Dynamics
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, University of California at Berkeley

- 24 -
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING FACULTY (Cont.)

Laura Schaefer, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Thermal-Fluid Systems
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Tech

William S. Slaughter, Associate Professor/Undergraduate Director of Mechanical Engineering and

Materials Science
Solid Mechanics, Micromechanics, Composites, and Fracture
Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences, Harvard University

Patrick Smolinski, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Computational Mechanics, Biomechanics
Ph.D. in Theoretical & Applied Mechanics, Northwestern University, Illinois

Albert To, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Simulation-based material system design, Multiscale modeling and simulation, Computational
mechanics, Acoustic Emission Techniques
Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Berkeley

Jeffrey S. Vipperman, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Active Microsystems (MEMS), Smart Structures, Acoustics & Vibrations, Transducers &
Controls, Energy Sytems
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Duke University

Guofeng Wang, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Computational Materials Science, Multiscale Modeling and Simulation, Computational
Nanomechanics, Materials Design for Renewable Energy Technology
Ph.D. in Materials Science, California Institute of Technology

Qing-Ming Wang, Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Director of
Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program
Micro-Electro-Mechanical systems (MEMS), Microfabrication, Smart Materials,
Piezoelectric and Electrostrictive Materials for Electromechanical Transducer,
Acoustic Wave Sensors
Ph.D. in Materials, Pennsylvania State University

Lisa Weiland, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science

Smart Materials, Experimental and Computational Mechanics, Device Development
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Tech

Sylvanus N. Wosu, Associate Dean for Diversity, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering
and Materials Science
Engineering, Dynamics of Composites
Ph.D. in Engineering Physics, University of Oklahoma

- 25 -
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING FACULTY (Cont.)

Emeritus Professors:

James L. S. Chen, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Heat Transfer, Non-Newtonian Fluids, Suspension Flows
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, The University of Illinois

Richard S. Dougall, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Heat Transfer, Multiphase Flow, Flow in Porous Media
Sc.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Charles C. Hwang, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Combustion, Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer
Ph.D. in Engineering, Harvard University

Michael J. Kolar, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Design & Manufacturing
Ph.D. in Engineering, Case Western Reserve University

Norman Laws, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Composites, Applied Mechanics
Ph.D., University of New Castle-upon-Tyne, England

Roy D. Marangoni, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Vibrations, Biomechanics
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Pittsburgh

Tse-Chien Woo, Emeritus Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Viscoelasticity, Thermal Stresses
Ph.D. in Applied Math, Brown University

- 26 -
EXPERIMENTAL & COMPUTATIONAL FACILITIES

To obtain more information on the research of the Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science
Department, including an up to date list of laboratories, please visit the webpage:
http://www.engineering.pitt.edu/MEMS/Research/Research_Default/ .

Bio Tissues and Complex Fluids Laboratory (Dr. Anne Robertson) - The Bio Tissues and
Complex Fluids Laboratory is devoted to the characterization and experimental study of complex
materials. Much of our work is focused on understanding and quantifying the link between material
behavior and structure. These results are used for the development of constitutive equations to model
these materials in a predictive fashion. Of particular interest in this group is the behavior of cerebral
vascular tissue with applications to the pathological condition of intracranial aneurysms (ICA).
ICAs are abnormal dilations of arteries of arteries at the base of the brain. If untreated, an ICA can
continue to expand until rupture, resulting in hemorrhage which is followed by death or severe
disability in the majority of patients. A central goal of this research laboratory is to better understand
the initiation, growth, and rupture of the ICA and to improve clinical treatments for this disease. The
walls of the ICA differ morphologically from those of healthy arteries. Elastin, which is present in
healthy blood vessels, is fragmented or missing in ICAs. A central question in this disease is why this
breakdown occurs and what role it plays in the initiation and continued growth of ICAs. We
conjecture this breakdown arises from a combination of mechanical damage and a breakdown in
homeostatic mechanisms in the wall due to the particular hemodynamic loading in the region of ICA
formation. Our group is the first to develop a constitutive equation to model this disruption using a
structural model in which damage arises from both mechanical and hemodynamic
factors. Experiments in our laboratory are directed at gaining a better understanding of the link
between elastin structure and mechanical function. Our laboratory includes several custom built
mechanical testing devices for this purpose. Structural properties of the wall are quantified in
conjunction with the Center for Biological Imaging (CBI) of the University of Pittsburgh.

Composite Materials Laboratory (Dr. Sylvanus Wosu) - The Composite Materials Laboratory is
used mainly for research in penetration and fracture mechanics of composite materials, the
characterization of associated dynamic failure modes, and understanding the physics of dynamic
failures of new generation of composite materials. The lab is equipped with a high-performance
penetrating and fracturing Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) integrated to a high speed
optical/CCD imaging system for high strain rate testing. The system is capable of capturing dynamic
fracture, crack propagation, and fragmentation processes during composite materials failure at over 2
million frames per second. The lab operates a laser Raman Spectroscopy for characterization of
residual strengths and micro micromechanical properties of composite materials with 1 mm
resolution. Heat, moisture absorption, dynamic impact, or a combination of these factors results in
transformation of micro-mechanical properties of composite materials in the region of damage and
beyond. Laser Raman spectroscopy is used to directly measure fiber stress at the microscopic level
because Raman frequencies or unique atomic vibrational energy levels of the constituent fibers are
stress-strain dependent. In many crystalline or paracrystalline materials, the Raman peak position
shifts linearly to lower wave numbers under tensile strains and to higher wave number under
compressive strains.

Computational Materials Science Laboratory (Dr. Guofeng Wang). The Computational

Materials Science Lab focuses on developing multiscale simulation methods which range from
electronic structure calculation, atomistic modeling, and finite element analysis, and further applying
these simulation methods to design, characterize, and optimize materials. Current projects include (a)
developing novel electro-catalysts for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, (b) simulating surface
segregation phenomena in various alloy systems, (c) modeling mechanical deformation process in
nanomaterials, (d) investigating material failure mechanisms in rechargeable Li-ion battery, and (e)
studying the structure/property relation of dendritic polymers. In the current laboratory, there are four
- 27 -
Dell Precision Quad–core workstations for code development and software evaluation. In addition,
the laboratory takes full advantage of the super-computation power provided by the University of
Pittsburgh for research computation. The laboratory owns a number of computation software for
research and education. The computational software include VASP (commercial), Wien2k
(commercial), ABINIT (open-source), and FLEUR (open-source) for first-principles density
functional theory calculations, Materials Studio (commercial), DLPOLY (open-source), LAMMPS
(open-source), and MPSIM (self-developed) for large scale molecular dynamics simulations, and a
self-developed atomistic Monte Carlo simulation suite based on modified embedded atom method.

Computational Nanomechanics Laboratory (Dr. Albert To). The Computational Nanomechanics

Lab focuses on investigating the mechanics of materials at the nanoscale using large-scale computer
simulations. Current research projects include 1) Thermomechanical behavior of carbon nanotube
based materials, 2) Atomistic-to-continuum themomechanical theory in solids, and 3) Mechanics of
nanoporous and nanocrystalline metals. The computational tools the lab employs include molecular
dynamics simulations, first-principles methods, Monte Carlo simulations, and finite element/meshfree
methods. The computational resources the Lab has access to include a brand new 800-core cluster
(shared with other research groups at Pitt) and a 24-core cluster. This 800-core cluster has 100 nodes
each with two quad-core Intel Nehalem CPUs. The computer nodes are connected via a high speed
Infiniband network, which will deliver exceptional performance for parallel calculations using large
numbers of CPUs. The 24-core cluster consists of 4 x 6-Core Intel Xeon E7450 processors with
12GB of memory. The cluster has SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 10 installed along with MPICH,
MPICH2 and Intel compiler ICC and IFC version 10.1 with Math Kernel Library 10.0.1.014. The lab
also has several brand-new desktop computers, each having an Intel quadcore processor. The
computers are well-equipped and are fully integrated into the University of Pittsburgh high-speed
network. In addition, the lab has access to the state-of-the-art computing facilities at the Pittsburgh
Supercomputing Center (www.psc.edu).

Computational Transport Phenomena Laboratory (Dr. Peyman Givi) - The research in this
laboratory deals with fluid mechanics, combustion, heat and mass transfer, applied mathematics and
numerical methods. The emphasis of current research in this laboratory is on "understanding physics
and practical applications" rather than "developing computer algorithms." Computational simulations
are performed with the goal to study the underlying physics in energy systems. Several general areas
of investigations are: turbulent mixing, chemically reacting flows, high-speed combustion &
propulsion, and transition & turbulence. The numerical methodologies in use consist of spectral
methods (collocation, Galerkin), variety of finite difference, finite volume and finite element
schemes, Lagrangian methods and many hybrid methods such as spectral-finite element and spectral-
finite difference schemes. The laboratory is equipped with high-speed mini-supercomputers, graphic
systems and state-of-the-art hardware and software for “flow visualization.'' Most computations
require the use of off-cite supercomputers.

Energy Systems Laboratory (Dr. Laura Schaefer) – The thermal-fluid processes that underly
advanced energy systems are the foci of this laboratory. These processes are examined through both
experimental and computational approaches. Areas of research include thermoacoustics, heat pumps,
solar power and heating, fuel cells, and single- and dual-phase fluid flow characterization/heat and
mass transfer in single- and multi-component fluids. This research addresses issues faced both on the
microscale and in large-scale applications. Equipment includes a DAQ system, a flow loop, and
measurement and visualization equipment.

Fluids Laboratory (Dr. Paolo Galdi)- The Fluids Laboratory is the center for experimental research
in fluid mechanics and rheology at the University of Pittsburgh. Much of the research in this
laboratory examines the behavior complex fluids, such as polymeric solutions, suspensions, and
biological fluids in processing-like flows. We seek to better understand the link between flow
behavior and the material properties so that materials can be processed more efficiently to yield the

- 28 -
desired characteristics. In obtaining this goal, this laboratory develops and applies many cutting edge
technologies to obtain precise, in situ measurements of fluid velocity, stress, pressure, and
temperature. These measurements are compared with direct numerical simulations to model,
understand, and predict the flow behavior.

Gas Turbine Heat Transfer Laboratory (Dr. Minking Chyu) - The Gas Turbine Heat Transfer
Laboratory is equipped with advanced flow and heat transfer measurement facilities directed toward
obtaining fundamental understanding and design strategies of airfoil cooling in advanced gas turbine
engines. Major experimental systems available include a particle imaging velocimetry, a computer-
automated liquid crystal thermographic system, a UV-induced phosphor fluorescent thermometric
imaging system, and a sublimation-based heat-mass analogous system. Specific projects currently
under way include optimal endwall cooling, shaped-hole film cooling, innovative turbulator heat
transfer enhancement, advanced concepts in trailing edge cooling, and instrumentation developments
for unsteady thermal and pressure sensing.

John A. Swanson Micro and Nanotechnology Laboratory (MEMS Dept.) -

The John A. Swanson Micro/Nanotechnology Laboratory (JASMiN Lab) is a newly established
research and educational facility directed for design, fabrication, and performance characterization of
various engineering systems in micro- and nano-scales. This laboratory is built upon the existing
capabilities in precision manufacturing, smart materials and transducers, rapid prototyping, and
semiconductor fabrication in the Swanson School of Engineering. For the full line of silicon-based
MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) processing, the JASMiN Lab is equipped in clean room,
located in the 6th floor of the Benedum Engineering Hall, with various facilities for photolithography,
thin-film deposition (sputtering and ultrahigh vacuum e-beam evaporation), wet/dry etching, dicing,
and device characterizations. The Lab is open in public and all the facilities can be easily accessed,
running mainly on the basis of user usage fees. The Department of Mechanical Engineering and
Materials Science is currently expanding its research capabilities to both nano-scale devices and non-
silicon-based micro-devices. New fabrication equipment, such as thick-film deposition/patterning
facilities, deep reactive ion etching facilities, and special equipment to develop micro/nano devices
for bio-medical and energy applications, is being established. Currently, interdisciplinary research
and education are actively being carried out in the JASMiN Lab. The primary research areas include
microfluidics, Bio-MEMS, binary semiconductor nanotube and nanowire research, electro-active
polymer films and devices, compact/miniaturized fuel cell power generation devices, thin film
piezoelectric and electrostrictive micro-devices, surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices, thin film bulk
acoustic wave (BAW) devices, and so on.

Materials Micro-Characterization Laboratory or MMCL (MEMS Dept.) -

The MMCL is located mainly on the 8th floor of Benedum Hall and is administered within the
Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science. Prof. Wiezorek is the MMCL’s
faculty director and is assisted in its management and daily operations by two Research Specialist
staff members. It houses instrumentation for X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron
microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, light optical microscopy and nano-mechanical
measurements, including facilities for sample preparation. The MMCL offers access to
instrumentation and the expertise of its staff to support research and educational needs related to the
structural, compositional, and chemical characterization and measurements of materials properties at
the nano-scale. Major instrumentation includes:
- Two Philips X’pert X-ray diffractometers for powder diffraction and crystallographic texture studies
and offering in-situ sample heating capabilities (T≤1600˚C).
- One Philips XL-30 field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with detectors for
SE and BSE imaging, elemental composition analyses by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy
(EDS), and collection of electron beam backscatter patterns (EBSP) for orientation imaging
microscopy.
- Two 200kV transmission electron microscopes (TEM), JEOL JEM 200CX and JEOL JEM 2000FX

- 29 -
, imaging (line resolution 0.14 nm), diffraction, and EDS and EELS for composition and chemical
characterization from areas as small as ~15 nm in diameter, with all digital data acquisition. Standard
TEM specimen holders, low-background double-tilt and tilt-rotation holders, specialized holders for
in-situ heating (up ~1000°C), in-situ cooling (liquid nitrogen temperature) and in-situ tensile straining
are available.
- A Digital InstrumentsDimension 3100 scanning probe microscope permits atomic force microscopy
(AFM), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), and magnetic force microscopy (MFM)
investigations in a single platform.
- A Hysitron Tribo-Scope system permits nano-mechanical (indentation, scratch and wear testing) and
surface topographical (AFM) measurements at the nano-scale.
- Three digital light-optical microscopes offer spatial lateral resolutions down to ~500 nm and include
a highly versatile Keyence VHX 600 system for quantitative surface topographical measurements into
the realm of sub-micron dimensions.

Mechanical Testing Laboratory (MEMS Dept.) - The Mechanical Testing Laboratory includes two
hydraulic MTS machines. One has a high temperature capability for hot deformation simulation, and
the other is an MTS 880, 20,000-pound frame with hydraulic grips and temperature capability up to
1000°C. Two screw-driven machines are available, a 50,000-pound Instron TT and a 10,000-pound
ATS tabletop tester (this machine has fixtures for loading in tension, compression, and bending). The
facility also includes several hardness testers, including one Brinell, two Rockwell, one Rockwell
Superficial, and one Vickers, plus a new Leco M-400 G microhardness tester. Two impact testers are
available—one with 100 foot-per-pound and the other with 265 foot-per-pound capacity. An
ultrasonic elastic modulus tester is also available.

Mechanics of Active Materials Laboratory (Dr. Lisa Weiland) - Research focuses on the
experiment- and physics-based constitutive modeling of active ('smart') materials, with a strong
secondary emphasis on applications. Active materials such ferroelectric ceramics, electroactive and
photoactive polymers, and nastic materials are considered both experimentally and computationally.
The goal of research is to understand the multi-scale physics responsible for the transduction behavior
observed in active materials in order to expand their viable engineering applications which range
from shape morphing structures to bio-sensors..

Micro/Bio Fluidics Laboratory (Dr. Sung Cho) - The Micro/Bio Fluidics Laboratory is primarily
devoted to (1) engineering and developing a variety of micro/bio fluidic sensors, actuator and
integrated systems that enable us to handle a wide range of micro/bio objects with more direct access
and to (2) studying science and engineering associated with them. In particular, most research
activities are heavily involved with micro fabrications. Available equipment includes a high-power
florescent microscope, a low-power microscope, optical benches, a parylene coater, computers, data
acquisition systems, high-voltage amplifiers, a conductivity meter, arbitrary waveform generators,
MEMS device design software, and so on.

Micromechanics and Nano-science laboratory (Dr. Scott Mao) - This mechanical engineering
laboratory is a modern facility with cutting edge technology for the study of micromechanics and
physics of micrometer and nanometer scaled structures and materials. The laboratory contains atomic
force microscopes and a nano-indentation testing facility, which provide a capability of measuring
load vs. displacement at scales of 10-9 Newton vs nanometer, nano-scaled adhesion and micro-
mechanical behavior for advanced materials including semiconductors and biosystems.

Microsensor and Microactuator Laboratory (Dr. Qing-Ming Wang) - With supports from federal
funding agents, the current and future research activities conducted in the Microsensor and
Microactuator Laboratory can be grouped in following closely related areas. 1) Fabrication and
property characterization of piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and ferroelectric thin films and thick films, 2)

- 30 -
On-chip integrated microsensors and microactuators that are based on piezoelectric AlN, ZnO, and
PZT thin film materials, 3) Acoustic wave devices, including thin film bulk acoustic wave devices for
RF and microwave frequency control application and acoustic wave sensors, 4) Piezoelectric and
electrostrictive ceramics, and polymers such as PZT, PMN-PT, PVDF and copolymers, electro active
elastomers, magnetostrictive materials, multiferroic materials, and other functional materials for
transducers and biomedical applications, 5) Fabrication and characterization of semiconductor
nanowires, nanoparticles, and multifunctional nanocomposites. The laboratories accommodate
extensive fabrication and characterization capabilities for functional materials and devices.

NanoScale Fabrication and Characterization Facility (PINSE, Swanson School of Engineering)–

The NFCF is a user facility in 4,000 ft2 clean-room environment (class 100, 1,000 and 10,000 areas),
located in the sub-basement of Benedum Hall. NFCF is designed to support fabrication and
characterization of nanoscale materials and structures, and integration of devices at all length scales.
The facility houses advanced equipment with core nano-level (20 nm or below) capability for
fabrication and characterization, including electron-beam lithography system, dual-beam system,
plasma etching, thin film deposition, TEM, multifunctional scanning probe station, and modular
XRD.

NanoSystems Measurement and Control Lab (Dr. Dan Cole) - The NanoSystems Measurement
and Control Lab conducts research in the area of dynamic systems, measurement and control for
nanosystems. This research is focused on how to characterize systems at or near the
nanoscale, describe their dynamics, measure such phenomena, and control them. Our research is
centered around two instruments for measuring and manipulating things at the nanoscale: optical
traps and magnetic traps. There are also have research interests in the areas of maskless
lithography, where techniques developed for the optical trap are finding application to
photolithography, and the precision control of macroscale machines but to nanometer resolution.

Orthopaedic Engineering Laboratory (Dr. Pat Smolinski) – The Orthopaedic Engineering

laboratory contains space and equipment for continuum, computational and experimental mechanics
of biomaterials, tissues, medical devices, surgical procedures and injury mechanisms. The lab has
uniaxial/torsional and rheological materials testing capabilities. Robotic testing system is available
for the 6-DOF force or displacement testing of complex motions. Precise three-dimensional
measurements and surface recreation can be done by laser scanning equipment. Computational
software for the processing of CT data and for finite element analysis is available.

Sound, Systems, and Structures Laboratory (Dr. Jeffrey Vipperman) (560 BENDM) – This
mechanical engineering laboratory is dedicated to development, modeling, and experimental
characterization of active systems at the micro and macro scales. The diverse range of projects
typically blend the related fields of acoustics, noise control, hearing loss prevention, vibrations,
2
structural-acoustic interaction, controls, and analog/digital signal processing. A 1,000 ft laboratory
3
equipped with state of the art equipment is complemented with an ancillary 250m anechoic chamber
facility. Past and current projects include the development of active throttling valves for advanced
energy systems, vibro-acoustic modeling of novel composites, active and passive noise and vibration
control, hazard estimation for occupational impulse noise, development of automatic noise classifiers
for military noise, and the development of thermoacoustic refrigeration for electronics cooling.

Thermal and Fluids Laboratory in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability (Dr. Mark Kimber) -
In this lab, we conduct experimental (fundamental and applied) research to investigate thermal and
fluid phenomenon associated with energy efficiency and sustainability. Projects include (i)
biomimetic energy efficient propulsion from oscillations, (ii) cyclic stresses in nuclear reactors
induced from thermal oscillations, (iii) energy efficiency in data centers and (iv) low power
consuming heat transfer devices for electronics cooling applications. This research is funded through
various sources, including industry as well as government sponsors, and through the Mascaro Center
- 31 -
for Sustainability. General equipment available in the lab includes: Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV)
equipment capable of extracting three-dimensional flow components, laser displacement sensors, hot-
wire anemometry, and an infrared camera.

Thermal Science and Imaging Laboratory (Dr. Minking Chyu) - The Thermal Science and
Imaging Laboratory is equipped with advanced flow and heat transfer measurement facilities directed
toward obtaining fundamental understanding and design strategies for advanced thermal control
systems. Major equipment includes a subsonic wind tunnel, a particle imaging velocimetry, a
computer-automated liquid crystal thermographic system, a UV-induced phosphor fluorescent
thermometric imaging system, and a sublimation-based heat-mass analogous system. Specific
projects currently under way include optimal endwall cooling, shaped-hole film cooling, innovative
turbulator heat transfer enhancement, advanced concepts in trailing edge cooling, and instrumentation
developments for unsteady thermal and pressure sensing.

Vibration and Control Laboratory (Dr. William Clark, 225 BENDM) – The Vibration and
Control Laboratory has been developed for studying smart materials and structures concepts,
particularly in the areas of vibration control, energy harvesting, morphing material systems and
adaptive mechatronics, and smart structures as they relate to sustainability. The laboratory is well
equipped for experimental research in smart structures including a number of workstations for real-
time control; a variety of transducers for actuating and measuring vibrations; and processing and
testing equipment for the study of morphing and adaptive mechatronic systems.

- 32 -
GENERAL INFORMATION

The general regulations governing graduate study can be found in the graduate bulletin:
http://www.bulletins.pitt.edu/graduate/regulations.htm. Much information is repeated below for your
convenience, or where the department imposes stricter guidelines.

Admission – Applications for admission are encouraged from all persons with a genuine interest in
advanced engineering study. Each application will be judged on its own merits. For the applicant
who is a recent graduate of an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
accredited school, admission will be granted on the basis of the undergraduate scholastic record.
Usually an applicant with a B average (cumulative quality point average of 3.0/4.00) or better will be
granted admission. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required by the Mechanical
Engineering Department. Applicants should check each program’s specific requirements. Applicants
who do not meet these requirements may be considered on an individual basis with strong emphasis
given to academic promise, career orientation, work experience, and preparation in engineering and
related disciplines. In some cases, these applicants will be required to correct deficiencies in
preparation for the graduate program.

Admission Procedures

(1) United States citizens or permanent residents should follow this procedure.
a. Apply on-line at: https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=up-e or write or telephone the
departmental Graduate Administrator or Coordinator for the application material.
b. Return any hand-completed application materials
(http://www.engr.pitt.edu/admissions/graduate/download.html) with a check or
money order (not cash) in the amount of $50 payable to the University of Pittsburgh
(The fee for a Special Student application is $50.00). The application fee is not
returnable.
c. Ask the registrars of all undergraduate and graduate schools attended to send
transcripts of records to the School of Engineering Office of Administration, 749
Benedum Engineering Hall, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261. An
official transcript of the undergraduate record is required even though the applicant
may not intend to work towards a degree. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh
need not request the University registrar to send a transcript of the undergraduate
record.
d. Ensure that your letters of reference make it to the University, since this can hold up
the admissions process.

Action will be taken after receipt of the completed application materials, including the application
fee, and complete transcripts of work done in previous undergraduate and graduate curricula. The
deadline for the fall term is March 1; the spring term deadline is July 1; and the summer term deadline
is February 1. We ask that International Students send in their application materials at least two
months before the posted deadlines. Applications received after the deadline will be considered on an
individual basis.

(2) All international student applications are processed for academic qualifications by the
School of Engineering and for non-academic qualifications by the Admissions Officer,
Office of International Services (OIS). The document needed to apply for a non-immigrant
visa will be issued only after the applicant has been admitted and has provided evidence of
adequate financial support and English language proficiency. International applicants
should follow this procedure:
a. Direct preliminary inquiries concerning graduate programs, research, and financial
aid to the departmental Graduate Coordinator. Applications for graduate study are
available from the graduate coordinator and the School of Engineering Office of
- 33 -
 Administration, 749 Benedum Hall, Pittsburgh, PA 15261. Students can also apply
online at: https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=up-e.
The non-refundable application fee for international students is $50.

b. The applicant will receive notification from the Engineering Office of Administration
concerning the evaluation of academic qualifications.

c. If the academic evaluation by the department is favorable, the International Student

Admissions Officer will review non-academic qualifications to determine eligibility
for a visa document.
This procedure is also for any international applicants who are already in U. S. A.

The University reserves the right, even after the arrival and enrollment of a student from another
country, to require, at his or her own expense, individual curricular adjustments whenever particular
deficiencies or needs are found. This could include enrollment without credit in additional course
work in English as a foreign language or in courses prerequisite to his or her regular plan of study.
New students from abroad are encouraged to use the services of OIS to help them in their own
adjustment to the United States and to facilitate their total educational experience.

English Language Proficiency – Graduate students must possess sufficient knowledge of English to
study without being hindered by language problems, to understand lectures, and to participate
successfully in class discussions. The determination that the applicant has sufficient proficiency is
made by the admitting department or school, subject to University-wide minimum standards
determined by the University Council on Graduate Study.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) must be taken if the applicant’s native language
is not English. A minimum score of 550 (213 on the computer-based test / 80 on the internet-based
test) or higher on the TOEFL is required for admission to graduate study. The International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) may now be substituted for the TOEFL. A minimum result of
Band 6.5 is required on the IELTS. The requirement to take the TOEFL may be waived if the
applicant has achieved a satisfactory score on other tests of English proficiency such as the IELTS or
has received a degree from an accredited institution in the United States.

In special cases, a school or department may admit a student who has not demonstrated minimum
proficiency in English. Upon arrival, students with TOEFL scores less than 550 (213 on the
computer-based test / 80 on the internet-based test) or IELTS scores less than Band 6.5 will not be
permitted to register until they have taken the on-campus administered Michigan Test of English
Proficiency.

If remedial courses in English as a foreign language are recommended as an outcome of the Michigan
Test of English Proficiency, the department or school must ensure that the recommendations are
followed. All students with a TOEFL score less than 600 (250 on the computer-based test / 100 on
the internet-based test) or less than Band 7 on IELTS must take the Michigan Test of English
Language Proficiency upon arrival. Although the registration of only those with TOEFL scores less
than 550 and IELTS scores less than Band 6.5 will be blocked.

In keeping with the University policy on Certification of English Language Fluency for Teaching,
students who are not native speakers of English and are appointed as teaching assistants or teaching
fellows are required to take a test of their spoken English upon arrival. Individuals are given non-
teaching assignments and are required to take special course work until they attain passing scores. An
unsatisfactory score at the time of reappointment is sufficient cause for non-renewal.

- 34 -
Original results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) should be sent directly to the
University of Pittsburgh by the Educational Testing Service. Copies of TOEFL test results are not
acceptable. For information or an application for the TOEFL, you may contact the Educational
Testing Service, P.O. Box 6151 Princeton, New Jersey 08541-6151, USA. (E-mail: [email protected];
website: www.toefl.org). The institutional code for the University of Pittsburgh is 2927 and the
department code for the School of Engineering is 69. International English Language Testing System
(IELTS) is jointly managed by: University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, British Council, and
IDP: IELTS Australia. For more on IELTS , please visit the website: http://www.ielts.org.

Financial Aid – Admission to the graduate program does not imply the granting of financial aid.
This is done separately, and an applicant interested in obtaining financial aid should request
information directly from the department. The following types of aid may be available:

(1) Fellowships are awarded to students of outstanding ability. The financial aid is usually
an unrestricted grant.

(2) Teaching Assistantships and Teaching Fellowships are awarded to exceptionally well-
prepared students in return for assistance in laboratories, recitation sections, and other
teaching duties. Partial or full tuition scholarships are also provided.

(3) Research Assistantships are awarded to students for assistance on research programs.
Partial or full tuition scholarships are also provided.

When an award for financial aid is made by the department, the terms and conditions are specified.
Applications for financial aid should be received as early as possible.

For information on student loans, contact the University Office of Admissions and Financial
Aid, Alumni Hall – 4227 Fifth Avenue, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 (624-
7488).

- 35 -
Tuition Costs and Fees

Note: The University reserves the right to change the tuition rates and fees at any time
without notice in advance.

Tuition rates vary with each school within the University. Graduate students are invoiced per credit
for the first one to eight credits and the full-time flat rate for nine to 15 credits. No student is
permitted to register for more than 15 credits without specific permission from the dean of the school
in which the student is pursuing a degree. If granted, the student will be assessed the flat rate plus a
per-credit charge for each credit over 15.

Graduate School Tuition – Graduate students registered for 9 to 15 credits in the Fall and Spring
Terms are regarded as full-time, and are assessed the current “flat” tuition rate for the Swanson
School of Engineering. The Academic Year 2011-12 Tuition Rates are (Please refer to website:
http://www.ir.pitt.edu/tuition/tuitionrates.php for more information):

Resident Tuition, Per Term: $ 10,775.00

Non-Resident Tuition, Per Term: $ 17,645.00

Additional Fees that are applicable to students regardless of Pennsylvania or

Out-of-State Residency include:

Student Activity Fee $ 80.00

Student Health Fee $ 85.00
Computing and Network Services Fee $ 175.00
Security, Safety, and Transportation Fee $ 90.00
$ 430.00

Graduate Students registered for fewer than 9 credits are considered part-time and are billed on a
per-credit basis.

Summer Term/Summer Sessions – Students registered during the summer term and/or summer
sessions will be billed on a per-credit basis only, regardless of the number of credits taken.

Diversity and Sexual Harassment Training

The Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science Department is pleased to provide diversity
training to its graduate students through the Swanson School of Engineering Office of Diversity. All
students are expected to participate in diversity and sexual harassment training the first time
that it is offered after enrolling in classes. More information can be received from the Diversity
Program Assistant at [email protected] or 412 624-9842.

- 36 -
Graduate Housing – There is no residence hall on campus for graduate students for the fall and
spring terms. Accommodations are available throughout the summer term. Rates are available upon
request from the University Housing and Food Services Office, which is located in the Litchfield
Towers, Tower A, (412) 648-1100. The University has established a meal plan for which any
registered student is eligible. Students may obtain board-plan information by contacting the Housing
and Food Services Office.

Housing Resource Center, 127 North Bellefield Avenue (412) 624-6998, provides community
listings of private rooms and apartments for rent continually throughout the year. The Housing
Resource Center is open between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
HRC website http://www.ocl.pitt.edu/ , phone: 412-624-6998, or e-mail: [email protected]
HRC lists University-owned efficiencies and one- and two-bedroom apartments for rent.
As well as informative information concerning housing outside of University-owned property.

Student Status – Continuing Student is a student who was registered in the same academic center at
the same level for any term within the last calendar year.

New Student is a student who is registering for the first time, or one who is registering in a different
academic center (including regional campuses) or level from his/her last registration, regarding the
registration process.

Re-Admitted Student is a student who has previously registered but not within the last calendar
year. The student shall be considered the same as a new student registering for the first time,
regarding the registration process.

Provisional Status – Students who are admitted to the program under provisional status must satisfy
the conditions of his/her provisions to remove certain deficiencies in either coursework or academic
achievement before being changed to full status.

Special Student Status – Students who are seeking advanced degrees but who are unable to meet the
deadline for filing all required credentials for admission may be granted temporary admission
provided they present acceptable evidence concerning their qualifications for graduate study. Regular
admission must be accomplished within the first term of registration.

Students who are not seeking an advanced degree but who have specific qualifications for one or
more courses, including courses required for learning or certification, may register for such courses
subject to review by the department and the dean of the school. If a student should apply for
admission to a degree program, a maximum of 6 credits may be applied toward a graduate degree.

Inactive Status - Students who have not registered for at least three (3) credits (eligible doctoral
students at least one (1) credit of full-time dissertation study) during a 12-month period will be
transferred automatically to inactive status and must file an application for readmission to graduate
study (application fee required) before being permitted to register again. Students on inactive status
cannot apply to graduate or take preliminary or comprehensive examinations. Also, students on
inactive status are not eligible to use University facilities and should not expect to receive counseling
from the faculty or active supervision by their advisor and committee.

Readmission – Readmission is not automatic nor does it necessarily reinstate the student to the
academic status enjoyed prior to becoming inactive. When readmitted, the student must be prepared
to demonstrate proper preparation to meet all current admission and degree requirements.

- 37 -
Registration Process – After being admitted to a graduate program, students may register for
classes with their academic advisor. The registration period for a term or session is published in the
University’s Schedule of Classes (see http://www.registrar.pitt.edu/schedule_of_classes.html), in
course descriptions, on calendars (including the University’s Academic Calendar at
(www.pitt.edu/~provost/calendar.html), and in numerous other publications.

Students registering for the first time are advised to complete registration well before the beginning of
the term. Typically, the first day of classes is the last day for students to register. After the start of
classes, registration for new and continuing students is permitted only in unusual circumstances and
only with the written approval of the dean and the payment of a late registration fee.

Your registration will be processed in the Office of Administration, 253 Benedum Hall. Students are
required to have the signature of their academic advisor on the registration form. The student's
signature on the registration form creates a financial obligation to the University of Pittsburgh. Once
students have registered, they may view their class schedules online at http://my.pitt.edu.

Registering for Full-Time Dissertation Study

Doctoral students who have completed all credit requirements for the degree, including any minimum
dissertation credit requirements, and are working full-time on their dissertations may register for Full-
Time Dissertation Study, which carries no credits or letter grade but provides students full-time
status. Students so enrolled are assessed a special tuition fee but are still responsible for the full-time
computer and network, security/transportation, student health, and activity fees. Students must consult
with the dean's office of their school for permission to register for full-time dissertation study.

Registering for Two Independent Degree Programs Simultaneously – Students may pursue two
independent graduate degrees simultaneously in two different schools within the University (joint
degree) or two different departments within the same school (dual degree). Normally, such students
should be enrolled for no more than a total of 15 credits per term. Special approvals and regulations
apply before a student is allowed to register for courses in pursuit of two independent graduate
degrees. See discussion in Special Academic Opportunities for further detail.

Registering for Cooperative, Dual-Degree, and Joint-Degree Programs – Dual- and joint-degree
programs result in two degrees being awarded. Requirements for these programs include all or most
of the requirements of two distinct academic degree programs. Dual programs exist within a single
school; joint programs exist between two or more schools; cooperative programs are administered by
two or more institutions. Before registering for courses in pursuit of a cooperative, dual-degree, or
joint-degree program, a student must be admitted to both programs. See discussion in Special
Academic Opportunities for further detail.

- 38 -
Cross-Registration – Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, the Pittsburgh Theological
Seminary, Robert Morris University, and the University of Pittsburgh offer graduate students the
opportunity for cross-registration in graduate programs in the five institutions in the fall and spring
terms. Credits earned by cross-registration in graduate courses at Carnegie Mellon, Duquesne
University, the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and Robert Morris University, when approved in
advance by the student's graduate advisor, are accepted as University of Pittsburgh credits for the
purpose of the calculation of the quality point average and the completion of degree requirements.
Each department at each institution retains the authority to establish the prerequisites for admission
and the maximum enrollment in its own courses and to grant priority in registration to its own
graduate students.

Cross-registration is only available in the fall and spring terms. Only full-time students may
cross-register. Students who cross-register do not pay tuition to the host institution; however, they are
responsible for any additional fees associated with the course such as laboratory fees, books, and the
like. During the summer, students may attend one of the above colleges as guest students, but they
must pay that institution's tuition and fees. Students are discouraged from cross-registering during
their term of graduation to avoid any delays in the receipt of course credit needed to graduate.
Students should meet with their advisor before they cross-register. See also Cross-Registration Credit
or visit the Pittsburgh Council of Higher Education (PCHE) (http: www.pchepa.org) for organization
history and available program information.

Auditing Courses – With the consent of the school and instructor, students may audit a course and
receive an N grade with the consent of the instructor and school offering the course. However, to
audit a course, a student must register and pay tuition for the course. The N grade is not counted
toward graduation or the QPA.

Adding and Dropping Courses – Students may add and drop courses only during the add/drop
period. The dates for the add/drop period are listed in the University's Schedule of Classes, in course
descriptions, on calendars (including the University's Academic Calendar at www.pitt.edu/~provost
/calendar.html), and in numerous other publications. Students who no longer wish to remain enrolled
in a course after the add/drop period has ended may resign from the University or withdraw from the
course.

Resigning from the University for a Specific Term – If students decide to drop all of their courses
after the add/drop period has ended and before 60 percent of the term or session has been completed,
they must resign from the University for that term. Official resignation from the University requires
students to contact the Student Appeals Office. Students have several options. They may resign in
person, by mail, or by calling 412-624-7585, where students may leave a message 24 hours a day,
including weekends and holidays. An R grade will appear on the student's academic transcript.
Tuition is prorated from the date of the student's notification to the Student Appeals Office of the
student's desire to resign, unless 60 percent of the term has been completed, in which case there is no
refund.
After the 60 percent point of the term or session has passed, students who wish to terminate their
registration may process withdrawal from all classes only with the permission of their academic dean.
If the reason for withdrawal is medical or psychological in nature, the academic dean may consult
with the director of the Student Health Service prior to making a determination. There is no financial
adjustment associated with this procedure, which results in the assignment of W grades for the
courses.

- 39 -
Monitored Withdrawal from a Course - After the add/drop period has ended, students may
withdraw from a course that they no longer wish to attend by completing a Monitored Withdrawal
Request form in the office of the school offering the course. Students must process the Monitored
Withdrawal Request form within the first nine weeks of the term in the fall and spring. Because
summer sessions vary in length, students should check the summer Schedule of Classes for those
deadlines. Students should check with the school offering the course for the last day to submit a
Monitored Withdrawal Request form. The grade W will appear on the student's grade report and
transcript. There is no financial adjustment to students' tuition or fee obligations involved in
withdrawing from courses, but withdrawing may jeopardize satisfactory academic progress,
financial aid, and assistantships or fellowships.

Transfer Procedure – The application of a graduate student from another graduate school is treated
in the same way as a new application, and the same procedure for application is followed. This
includes the transfer into an engineering graduate program from another school in the University of
Pittsburgh. After a transfer application is formally accepted, the student may apply for transfer of
graduate credits from another accredited institution to the University with the major adviser’s
recommendation and the dean’s approval. However, no transfer credit will be accepted for
courses in which grades lower than B, or its equivalent, has been received or which are no
longer considered as graduate-level courses by the department. A graduate student may apply for
a maximum of six (6) transfer credits toward the MS degree. No more that 30 credits may be
accepted for a master’s degree awarded by another institution to meet the minimum credit
requirement for the Ph.D. degree. However, in recognition of graduate study beyond the master’s
degree successfully completed elsewhere, up to twelve (12) additional credits may be accepted at the
time of admission to meet the minimum credit requirement. Thesis and dissertation credits are not
transferable.

Online Courses - Two courses (six credits total) may be taken from an appropriate academic
program. These courses must be:
1. Appropriate for the student’s academic program and typically not available on the Oakland
campus
2. Approved by the graduate coordinator and then approved by the Associate Dean for
Academic Affairs

Grading – Quality Point Average (QPA) and Grade Point Average (GPA) are numerical
indications of a student's academic achievement. QPA is the average of letter grades earned toward a
degree. GPA is the average of total letter grades earned.

Academic Standards – An average of at least B (QPA=3.00) is required in the courses that make up
the program for any graduate degree. Students with full graduate status are automatically placed on
probation whenever their cumulative QPA falls below 3.00. Each school determines the restrictions
placed on a student on probation.

A student on provisional or special status or on probation is not eligible to take the PhD preliminary
evaluation or the MS or PhD comprehensive examination, or to graduate.

Grading System – The University of Pittsburgh has a standard letter grade system (see Letter Grades
below). Some additional grading options are available in some courses as determined by the school
and the instructor (see sections below on University Grading Options and Other Grades). Students are
subject to the grading system of the school in which they are taking the course.

- 40 -
University Grading Options
Individual schools may elect to offer one of the following grade options for its courses:
LG Letter Grade
H/S/U Honors/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
S/N Satisfactory/Audit
LG and H/S/U Letter Grade and Honors/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
LG and S/N Letter Grade and Satisfactory/Audit
From among the grading options approved by the school, each department identifies those it deems
acceptable for its courses. Furthermore, course instructors may specify, within the grading options
approved by the school and department, which grading options may be selected by students taking
their course.

Students should choose a grading option from those listed with the course in the Schedule of Classes.
Grade Option/Audit Request forms for graduate courses are required by the School of Engineering.
Forms are available in Mechanical Engineering, 648 Benedum Hall and the Office of Administration,
253 Benedum Hall.

Students receive the grade H or S for satisfactory work and U for unsatisfactory work. The grades H
and S are counted toward graduation but not the student's QPA. The grades N and U are not counted
toward graduation or the QPA. The S grade indicates adequate graduate attainment; in evaluating
thesis or dissertation research, an instructor may only use the S/N grading option. All
thesis/dissertation credits remain Incomplete, “I” grade until the student successfully defend his/her
thesis/dissertation.

Letter Grades
The University's letter grade system for graduate courses is as follows:
Grade Quality Points
A+ = 4.00
A = 4.00 Superior Attainment
A- = 3.75

B+ = 3.25
B = 3.00 Adequate graduate-level attainment
B- = 2.75

C+ = 2.25
C = 2.00 Minimal graduate-level attainment
C- = 1.75

D+ = 1.25
D = 1.00
D- = 0.75

F 0.00 Failure
.
- 41 -
Other Grades: Incomplete, Withdraw, Resign – Upon a student's completion of a course, one of
the grades listed below may appear on the student's transcript in lieu of one of the options selected by
the student and/or instructor under University Grading Options. None of these grades carries quality
points. Students should consult with their individual school for information on any school-specific
regulations regarding these grades.

G Grade – The G grade signifies unfinished course work due to extenuating personal circumstances.
Students assigned G grades are required to complete course requirements no later than one year after
the term in which the course was taken. After the deadline has passed, the G grade will remain on the
record, and the student will be required to reregister for the course if it is needed to fulfill
requirements for graduation.

I Grade – The I grade signifies incomplete course work due to nature of the course, clinical work, or
incomplete research work in individual guidance courses or seminars.

W Grade – The W grade signifies that a student withdrew from the course. See Monitored
Withdrawal from a Course for more information.

R Grade – The R grade indicates that a student has resigned from the University.

Z Grade – The Z grade indicates that an instructor has issued an invalid grade.

Repeating Courses – A student may repeat any course in which a grade of B- or lower is received if
an authorization to repeat the course is given by the student's advisor and/or department. A school
may restrict the type and/or number of different courses that may be repeated during one degree
program. The grade earned by repeating a course is used in lieu of the grade originally earned,
although the original grade is not erased from the transcript. No course may be repeated more than
twice. No sequence course may be repeated for credit after a more advanced course in that sequence
has been passed with a B or higher grade. The repeated course must be the same as that in which the
original grade was earned. In extenuating circumstances, a department chair, with the dean's approval,
may substitute another course of similar content. Grades of W, R, or N reported for the repeated
course will not be counted as a course repeat. To initiate only the last course grade being computed in
the QPA, a Course Repeat form must be filed with the dean's office.

Changing Grades – The instructor of a course may change a student's grade by submitting a Change
of Grade Card. All grade changes require the authorization of the dean of the school from which the
original grade was issued. While each school may determine a time limit for grade changes, they
should be processed no later than one year after the initial grade was assessed. Changes in I grades are
exempt from this one-year policy.

Grade Report – At the end of each term, a grade report is prepared by the Office of the University
Registrar and mailed to the student, provided that all charges have been paid. This report shows
credits carried, the grade received in each course, and quality points earned. Shortly after the term
ends, students can also access their grades online via the secure server at http://student-info.pitt.edu.

- 42 -
Grade Access - Grades are available through the University Portal at approximately 10:00 am the
morning after the day grades are due in the Registrar's Office. Grade information, including grade
changes, will continue to be available online using the Student Services Community in http://
my.pitt.edu. If one of your instructors submits grades after the established deadline, your record will
not reflect a grade for that course until the next posting date. Questions about the actual grade
awarded should be directed to the individual instructor or the department chairperson. Once grades
have been posted, update requests must be submitted via Grade Change Request forms and processed
through the proper Deans Office. Changes will appear as they are received and processed in the
Office of the University Registrar.

To access your record on the web, log on to Student Self Service through http://my.pitt.edu and
follow the menu path: My Communities>Student Self Service>View my Grades

If grade verification is needed for employer reimbursement, or for any other reason, you can obtain a
copy of your transcript in G-3 Thackeray Hall. You can also visit the University Registrar's Office
website for more information on how to obtain a transcript by mail.

If you have any outstanding financial obligations to the University, you will not be able to view your
record online, or obtain a transcript until payment arrangements are completed.

Probation, Suspension, and Dismissal – Students who fail to make satisfactory progress may be
subject to academic probation and/or suspension and dismissal. Students who have completed at least
9 quality point credits and whose QPA falls below 3.00 will be placed on academic probation by the
dean of the school. After a certain period of time on academic probation (the period is determined by
the School of Engineering), a student is subject to academic suspension and restricted from
registering for classes in that school. Students on probation are not eligible to take the PhD
preliminary evaluation or the MS or PhD comprehensive examination, or to be graduated.

Effect on Financial Aid and Scholarships – Conditions for loan eligibility and many scholarships
(including those for teaching assistants, teaching fellows, graduate student assistants, and graduate
student researchers) usually require students to complete a specified number of credits each year and
maintain a specified quality point average (QPA: credits counted toward the degree). Questions about
the effect of unsatisfactory academic standing on loans should be directed to the Office of Admissions
and Financial Aid in Alumni Hall (4227 Fifth Avenue) at 412-624-7488. Questions about the effect of
unsatisfactory academic standing on scholarships, including teaching and research assistantships,
should be directed to the department.
Statute of Limitations – The purpose of the statute of limitations is to ensure that a graduate degree
from the University of Pittsburgh represents mastery of current knowledge in the field of study.
Individual schools within the University may adopt policies that are more stringent, but not less, than
those stated here.

All requirements for MS degrees must be completed within a period of four consecutive calendar
years from the student's initial registration for graduate study; all professional master's degrees, within
five years. Dual degrees and joint degrees that require course work in excess of 50 credit hours may
be granted a longer statute of limitations by the University Council on Graduate Study.

From the student's initial registration for graduate study, all requirements for the PhD degree must be
completed within a period of 10 years, or within eight years if the student has received credit for a
master's degree appropriate to the field of study. A student who is unable to complete all degree
requirements within a five-year period after passing the comprehensive examination may be re-
examined at the discretion of the department or school. Programs for professional doctoral degrees,
for which the majority of candidates pursue part-time study while working full-time within their
chosen disciplines, may be granted a longer statute of limitations by the schools offering the degrees.

- 43 -
Under exceptional circumstances, a candidate for an advanced degree may apply for an extension of
the statute of limitations. The request must be approved by the department or departmental committee
(master's or doctoral) and submitted to the dean for final action. Requests for an extension of the
statute of limitations must be accompanied by a departmental assessment of the work required of the
student to complete the degree as well as documented evidence of the extenuating circumstances
leading to the requested extension. Students who request an extension of the statute of limitations
must demonstrate proper preparation for the completion of all current degree requirements.

Leave of Absence – Under special conditions, graduate students may be granted one leave of
absence. A maximum leave of two years may be granted to doctoral students or one year to master's
students. The length and rationale for the leave of absence must be stated in advance, recommended
to the dean by the department, and approved by the dean. If approved, the time of the leave shall not
count against the total time allowed for the degree being sought by the student. Readmission
following an approved leave of absence is a formality.

Registration Status at Graduation

All graduate students must register for at least 1 credit or full-time dissertation study during
the 12-month period preceding graduation (that is, must be on active status) and must be
registered for the term in which they plan to graduate. In exceptional circumstances, students who
complete all the degree requirements at the end of a term but graduate in the next term may petition
the dean of the school for a waiver of this registration requirement. Waivers may be obtained by
submitting a written request to the Office of Administration. The request should be based on
extenuating circumstances, e.g., inability of the student's dissertation committee to meet during the
final term when a student has given reasonable notice or the student has completed all degree
requirements in a previous term. Waivers will not be granted to students who are inactive. The
requirement that a student be on active status cannot be waived.

Application to Graduate – Students must file an application for graduation in the department or the
Office of Administration (253 Benedum) early in the term in which graduation is expected. Each
school establishes its own deadline by which students must apply for graduation. Students should
check with the graduate secretary for the deadline. As noted above, students must be active.

Prior to the end of the term in which they graduate, all doctoral candidates must submit to the dean's
office a completed Survey of Earned Doctorates.

If your graduation is postponed, you must reapply through the department or the Office of
Administration (253 Benedum) by completing another Graduation Application.

Certification for Graduation – The Graduate Faculty of the department or program evaluates the
performance of the student. If that performance is satisfactory, a report should be submitted to the
dean certifying that the candidate has satisfactorily completed all departmental requirements for a
graduate degree. The dean, after confirming that the overall school and University requirements have
been met, certifies the candidate for graduation.

- 44 -
Commencement
The University of Pittsburgh holds one annual commencement. It usually occurs on the last Sunday
in April and is held at the Petersen Events Center. Students who graduate within a graduation year
are invited to attend. A graduation year encompasses June, August, December of one year and April
and May of the following year. (Example: June through December of 2002 and April and May of
2003 graduates will be invited to the 2003 Annual Commencement.) The Office of Special Events
makes all of the arrangements for commencement. A "Graduation Central" is held approximately two
weeks prior to commencement. Students are able to pick up their regalia, tickets, and other
information regarding Commencement during this two-day event. You should contact the Office of
Special Events, if you have any questions concerning commencement. Their address is 1200 Bruce
Hall; their telephone number is (412) 624-7100.
Transcripts – An academic transcript serves as a permanent record of a student's academic progress.
The transcript is a cumulative record of the student's QPA, as well as a record of the department, title,
and grade for each course in which the student has enrolled. Students may request an official
transcript that bears the seal and the signature of the University registrar. Upon graduation, the
transcript reflects a student's degree and date; major; and, if applicable, honors, area of concentration,
and minor.

Official Transcripts – Official transcripts are available from the Transcript and Certification Office
in G-3 Thackeray Hall. Each page of your entire University of Pittsburgh transcript is included.
The transcript is printed on security paper and bears the seal and signature of the University Registrar.

There will no longer be a $3.00 fee for transcripts for students and alumni, but companies requesting
your transcript must still pay the fee. However, current fees for services will still be assessed to all
other groups and individuals. There is a fee of $20.00 for overnight delivery within the continental
United States (This fee is subject to change). International fees vary. If express fees are not paid
within ten working days, there is an additional $10.00 service fee. Transcripts cannot be faxed.

If you have an outstanding financial obligation to the University, your transcript will be withheld
until your account is paid in full.

REQUEST IN PERSON – To request a copy of your official transcript in person, you must
complete and sign a Transcript Request form available in the Transcripts and Certification area in G-3
Thackeray Hall. You may use this form to designate the address to which your transcript should be
sent. All transcript requests submitted in person require photo identification.

REQUEST BY MAIL - To order a copy of your transcript, please fill-out and mail the printable
Transcript request form available on (http://www.registrar.pitt.edu/transcripts.html). If you are
requesting overnight service, please make your check or money order payable to the University of
Pittsburgh. Transcripts cannot be accepted by telephone or e-mail.

Unofficial Transcripts – As a currently registered student, you are entitled to a copy of your
unofficial transcript. Your unofficial transcript contains the same information as the official
transcript, but it is printed on white paper and does not bear the seal and signature of the University
Registrar. To obtain your unofficial transcript, you must make your request in person in G-3
Thackeray Hall and present your valid University ID card at the time.

- 45 -
Diplomas – Your diploma, along with a complimentary official copy of your final transcript, will be
mailed to you at no charge approximately four weeks after the end of your term of graduation. We
will use the address on your Graduation Application unless you change it. See the online printable
Address Change Form available on (http://www.pts.pitt.edu/mailserv/customer/change.html). Check
your transcript carefully. Any discrepancies should be brought to the attention of the appropriate
office immediately.

Additional copies of your diploma may be purchased any time after graduation. Requests for
additional diplomas can be made by completing the online printable Diploma Reorder Form available
on (http://www.registrar.pitt.edu/diplomas.html), print it, and deliver it to G-3 Thackeray Hall or mail
it, with required payment, to:

Diplomas
Office of the University Registrar
G-3 Thackeray Hall
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
The fee for each diploma, including mailing, is $25.00. The fee for Professional or University
Honors College diplomas is $50.00. The reorder process takes approximately four weeks.
Diplomas will be in the current style and font and bear the signatures of the current administrators.

- 46 -