Academic Courses

Course Descriptions

Course Description

This course provides students with a basic introduction to materials science using the principles of science to study the nature of metallic and non-metallic materials used in most industries. Topics covered in the course include atomic structure; elements; states of matter; bonding; crystallization; and mechanical, chemical and physical properties of metallic, polymeric, ceramic and composite materials.

Prerequisites

(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)

• None.

Course Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Identify the four principle stages used in the scientific method of discovery.
• Apply standard conversion formulas to convert units of measurement.
• Explain the general atomic model.
• Summarize how the elements serve as the building blocks for all engineering materials.
• Explain the basic crystal structures common to most engineering materials.
• Classify the three principle states of matter based upon chemical, physical and mechanical behavior.
• Calculate the density of solid and liquid materials.
• Investigate material selection criteria for a common application.
• Demonstrate methods used for measuring mechanical properties including hardness and strength testing.
• Demonstrate methods used for measuring physical properties including thermal conductivity and thermal expansion.
• Demonstrate methods used for measuring corrosion behavior from exposure to salt fog.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of metallic materials.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of polymeric materials.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of ceramic materials.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of composite materials.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of magnetic and electronic materials.
• Explore the mechanical, chemical and physical behavior of natural materials including wood and concrete.
• Identify common non-destructive evaluation methods.
• Identify common destructive evaluation methods.

Note: This course may not be offered every semester.
Please check the MET section of the current course schedule for availability.

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