This course aims to provide students an introduction to the mechanical engineering science when they would like to acquire an overview of the elementary topics in statics, dynamics, mechanics of machines, and strength of materials, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics and so on. The theory is developed as far as possible while the mathematical formulae are kept to a minimum, and work examples illustrate the application of basic principles to engineering problems.  At the end of the course, the students will appreciate how engineers design the hardware that improves and builds our society.  Even though the students will not be an expert in mechanical engineering they will discover engineering is a practical discipline with the objective to design things that work, that are cost-effective to make, that are safe to use, and that are responsible to the environment.

While this course aims to provide a balanced introduction to various branches of engineering science, it is impossible to cover any of the topics in depth given the time constraint.  Students are therefore advised to consult other courses which cover the topics more comprehensively if they want to pursue a career where mechanical engineering design is a required core competence.