Graduates will be expected to provide technical support and leadership to the polymer, fiber, and allied industries, specifically:
a. An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering
Polymer and fiber engineering is an applied field and courses in the major require mastery of engineering, science, and mathematical principles for the student to be successful. From the introductory engineering class, where a group-oriented design project is an integral part, through the final senior, independent design project, the fundamentals of science, mathematics, and engineering are stressed.
b. An ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze and interpret data
In the introductory engineering course, yarn and fabric mechanics, textile testing, composite materials, and final design project, there is an emphasis on experiments and experimental design and with these, the analysis of experimental data and interpretation of their meaning.
c. An ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs
The structure and performance of fibers and fibrous materials to meet specific applications is stressed at every level. Courses in biomedical applications, industrial fabrics, and composite materials give a background in designing for needs. Processes used to determine structure and design are key elements in yarn manufacturing, fabric formation, and composites design.
d. An ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams
Fiber engineering is inherently multi-disciplinary requiring knowledge of materials,
mechanics, and machinery. In the introductory course, students from all engineering
disciplines work in teams to achieve the final product. The importance of multi-disciplinary
teams to produce fibrous products is reinforced in all engineering design courses.
e. An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems
All of the process courses in the program require students to design and develop products using the appropriate technology. In the testing course, students are expected to identify appropriate test methods and procedures to measure the property of interest. The final project requires the student to identify a practical problem and come up with an engineering analysis and solution.
f. An understanding of professional and ethical responsibility
All students are required to take at least one course in ethics. Students are strongly encouraged to become active in professional societies and fraternities - e.g., American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, Phi Psi, American Society of Mechanical Engineers - that have an active component dedicated to professional standards and ethics. In addition, professional and academic behavior is strongly reinforced in classroom work and assigned projects.
g. An ability to communicate effectively
Effective communications are stressed in all university courses. Laboratory exercises require cogently written laboratory reports while courses with group and individual design projects (ENGR 1110, FBEN 3300, FBEN 3400, FBEN 4920), require final oral presentations.
h. A broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context
Auburn University requires a University Core Curriculum of forty-one credits, approximately one-third of the student's academic program that "...seeks to assure that all graduates of Auburn University possess an educated appreciation of the natural world, of human life, and of the interaction between them, especially through technology."[1] In 2003, the department developed an exchange program with Reutlingen University in Germany. One fiber engineering student is attending classes there during Spring 2004, and two Reutlingen University students will attend classes at Auburn during Fall 2004.
i. A recognition of the need for, and ability to engage in life-long learning
Throughout their courses in fiber engineering students come in contact with the dynamic nature of the field and are made aware that what they are currently learning will most probably be different than what they will encounter several years hence. The importance of keeping abreast with new developments is reinforced using field trips and trips to local trade and machinery shows.
j. A knowledge of contemporary issues
Students are made aware of contemporary issues in their classes, from their membership in professional societies, and by the availability of trade and profession publications such as Textile World, Southern Textile News, Chemical and Engineering News, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Today, and Textile Chemist and Colorist. These publications are available for their perusal in the department's learning resource center.
k. An ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice
To the best of its ability the department tries to maintain state-of-the-art equipment and computers for use by the students.[1] Auburn University Bulletin, 98, p. 13.
