CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Citadel is now accepting applications for the college’s new Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program. The courses will begin in the summer of 2014 with focused tracks in power and energy, manufacturing, aeronautical systems, materials (composites), and mechatronics. There are two different ways for students to pursue the degree. Current or incoming members of the S.C. Corps of Cadets can register now for the courses that begin in the fall of 2014. Or, as part of an entirely separate avenue of study, the new degree is being offered to non-cadets through the college’s established evening undergraduate studies in conjunction with Trident Technical College and other participating technical colleges with the courses beginning the summer of 2014.

“Charleston will continue to outpace other regions in manufacturing and technology jobs, according to projections. The flourishing industries tell us they want more top-notch, home-grown talent,” said Ronald Welch, dean of The Citadel School of Engineering. “Very specifically, they need more mechanical engineers. The Citadel’s evening undergraduate studies program provides a solution for employed students wanting to live, work and learn locally.”

Students in The Citadel’s evening mechanical engineering program will attend a technical college, such as Trident Tech, the first two years, transitioning to The Citadel for their final two years of study. The new program mirrors The Citadel’s established evening 2+2 offerings in civil and electrical engineering. “Prospective students can come directly to us, or contact Trident Tech to learn more and begin their applications,” Welch said.

The Citadel School of Engineering, the fifth oldest in the nation, is currently composed of the department of electrical and computer engineering and the department of civil and environmental engineering. The military college was the forerunner in engineering education in the state of South Carolina, including engineering as part of the college’s curriculum since 1843.

The accreditation process for the mechanical engineering program will begin as soon as the first student has graduated from the program which is estimated to occur in May of 2016. The request to construct a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program was approved by the South Carolina Committee on Higher Education last fall.

Two new faculty members have been hired and more are being recruited. The programs administrators and faculty will establish the student chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers during the 2014-2015 academic year.

Students interested in the program can email the Office of Admissions, at admissions@citadel.edu or call (800) 868-1842 for additional information.