SUNYIT will offer a new bachelor of science in mechanical engineering program in fall 2013, the latest addition to an array of new engineering programs launched in the last two years.

"With this announcement, SUNYIT now offers a suite of engineering programs central to our mission as an institute of technology," said Wolf Yeigh, president of SUNYIT. "We're pleased that formal approval by the State Education Department will allow us to offer this new program in the fall 2013 semester."

SUNYIT's mechanical engineering program prepares students for careers in engineering and allied fields, promoting regional economic growth and workforce development. According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanical engineers "design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines . . . Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines." Yeigh said business and industry leaders have supported and encouraged SUNYIT's plan to launch mechanical and other engineering programs to fill existing and future needs for engineers in the Mohawk Valley.

"SUNYIT's mechanical engineering program will provide students with a solid foundation in mathematics, physical sciences, humanities and social sciences and the fundamentals of engineering design and analysis, as well as the technical knowledge and critical thinking skills required for the professional practice of mechanical engineering, and for seeking advanced degrees," said William W. Durgin, SUNYIT provost. "Students in the program will also develop communication, teamwork, and lifelong learning skills, and graduate with an understanding of professional, ethical and social responsibility in a global context."

SUNYIT's mechanical engineering program will consist of liberal arts, mathematics, science and engineering coursework; and a core mechanical engineering curriculum that offers a balanced course load between the thermal sciences and mechanical sciences. The program will be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), the accrediting organization for applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology programs. It will be eligible for accreditation after the first class of mechanical engineering majors graduates.

SUNYIT also offers bachelor’s degree programs in civil engineering, electrical & computer engineering, electrical engineering technology, computer engineering technology, and mechanical engineering technology, and a broad array of programs in technology and professional studies. For more information, e-mail admissions@sunypoly.edu.