College of Science, Engineering & Technology
Department of Automotive & Manufacturing
Engineering Technology
205 Trafton Science Center E
Phone: 507-389-6383
Fax: 507-389-5002
Website: Automotive Engineering Technology
Chair: Dr. Harry Petersen
Ann Goebel, Andrzej Markowski, Gary Mead, Bruce Jones, Paul Sullivan
Automotive Engineering Technology students study the design, development, testing, application, modification, and maintenance of vehicles and their components for use in transportation systems. Graduates obtain positions in operations, product research, design and development, technical service, manufacturing, and technical sales. Fields include passenger cars, trucks, off-road vehicles, emissions, safety, fuels and lubricants, industrial and agricultural equipment, and recreational vehicles.
Program Goals. Overall, the program strives to prepare students for entry into the technical workforce with well-developed skills. In particular, the department strives to ensure that its graduates have an ability to:
Accreditation. The program is accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), 111 Market Place, Suite 1050, Baltimore, MD 21202-4012, Telephone: 410-347-7700
Admission to Major is granted by the department. Minimum university admission requirements are:
Contact the department for application procedures.
Required Minor: None
Total Credits (16)
Choose 7 credits of AET/MET courses.
GPA Policy. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required.
Refer to the College regarding required advising for students on academic probation.
Department Grade Policy. All courses in the AET major, and the required Communications, Basic Science and Mathematics courses must be completed with a grade of "C" or better.
P/N Grading Policy. No more than 1/4 of all undergraduate credits may be P/N, except those courses offered P/N only.
Residency: A minimum of 50 percent of the credits for a major or minor in Automotive Engineering Technology must be taken at MSU.
Prerequisites and co-requisites must be observed unless written permission is obtained from the instructor and the Department of AMET. A flow chart of prerequisites is available at the Department Office.
The scheduling of all department courses is done yearly, based on enrollment and staffing. To obtain a current yearly class schedule, contact the Department.
AET 102 (1) Introduction to Automotive Engineering Technology
An overview of careers, technology and requirements for individuals interested in Automotive Engineering Technology. Hands-on experience is gained in a variety of new technologies. Careers in engineering technology are examined along with professional organizations and ethics. This course is intended as the first step toward an automotive career. It is not an auto maintenance class.
AET 160 (4) Automotive Technology & Systems
This course is centered on the theory, operation and service of the systems found in modern automobiles. Basic diagnosis and repair procedures are covered. Various aspects of the automotive industry are explored, including issues relating to conventional and innovative energy and transportation systems. Lectures and demonstrations cover the course topics and open lab sessions allow students time to complete assignments and gain hands-on experience in maintenance, diagnosis and repair procedures.
Coreq: MATH 112 or higher.
AET 261 (4) Automotive Driveability and Diagnosis
The diagnosis of automotive engine problems using a systems approach along with detailed troubleshooting procedures and specific test equipment will be the focus of this course. The engine's mechanical, ignition, fuel and emission systems are covered. Lectures and demonstrations cover the course topics and laboratory assignments allow students to gain hands-on experience in automotive diagnosis. Test equipment used in the course includes: Exhaust Gas Analyzers; Compression, Vacuum and Leakage Testers; Ignition Oscilloscopes, Timing Lights, Engine Analyzers; Crack Detection Equipment; Measuring Tools.
Pre: AET 160; Coreq: Math 115
AET 262 (4) Automotive Computers and Electronics
Theory and diagnostic procedures related to modern automobile electrical and electronic management systems. Major emphasis involves the computer as used in today's cars to control the ignition, fuel, emission control, body, and chassis system. Programmable engine management systems are introduced. Hands-on experience on diagnosis is provided.
Pre: AET 261, EET 113 Coreq: COMS 171
AET 334 (3) Fluid Power
Course provides a fundamental understanding of the physical principles of fluid power, along with a practical working knowledge of the components utilized in designing, installing, operating, and maintaining hydraulic and pneumatic power systems.
Pre: MATH 121, PHYS 211.
AET 364 (4) Chassis Design and Emission/Performance Testing
The theory and design of chassis systems in addition to the evaluation of such designs. The chassis dynamometer as a research and certification tool. Determination of load, road load testing, and power testing. Emissions and fuel economy measurement. Emphasis placed on Federal Emission Testing, IM 240, OBD II, and State I/M programs.
Pre: AET 262
AET 366 (3) Automotive Thermodynamics and Engine Design
The study of thermodynamics and engine theory. Static and dynamic engine measurements along with a technical study of the engine's mechanical, ignition, fuel, cooling and lubrication systems.
Pre: AET 261 Coreq: MATH 121, CHEM 104
AET 378 (3) Composite Materials
Fiber reinforced plastic composite materials used in the manufacturing and transportation industries are the focus of this course. Matrix and reinforcement materials are examined and their properties identified. Manufacturing methods, fabrication, assembly techniques, testing, repair, and design of composite products are covered.
Coreq: MET 177, MET 322
AET 387 (1) Junior Design Project
An examination of automotive design and research along with a review of topics such as ethics, professionalism, measurement, statistics, and career development/placement. This course prepares the student for AET 488, Senior Design Project I, where the design proposal, design project and final report are completed.
Pre: AET 102; Coreq: STAT 154
AET 435 (1-4) Automotive Design and Construction
Involves designing and building of prototype vehicles. Topics include: vehicle design decisions, rules, budgets, chassis design, body and aerodynamics, drivetrain choices, construction techniques, and test procedures. An actual experimental car will be built in this class. May be repeated.
AET 465 (2) Automotive Laboratory Experience
Designed to provide experience in lab organization, supervision, instruction and maintenance. Emphasis is also placed on obtaining service experience on a variety of makes of domestic and import vehicles. Enrollment is limited; students need to sign up at least two semesters in advance.
Laboratory.
Pre: AET 364
AET 468 (4) Automotive Research Methods and Design of Experiments
Automotive research techniques and equipment form the basis for this course. Environmental measurement, air flow testing, engine dynamometer testing, and vehicle performance measurement are covered. Emphasis is placed on research procedures, data acquisition and interpretation. Current research projects from the automotive industry are also examined.
Pre: AET 364, AET 366
AET 488 (1) Senior Design Project I
An examination of automotive design and research. Students refine their design proposal and begin their senior design project. This course also prepares the student for AET 489, Senior Design Project II, where the design proposal, design project and final report are completed. This course should be taken in the fall semester during the senior year.
Coreq: STAT 154
AET 489 (2) Senior Design Project II
A continuation of AET 488.
Pre: AET 468, 488, ENG 271
AET 492 (1-4) Automotive Seminar
Selected automotive topics.
AET 497 (1-10) Internship: Automotive
Automotive work experience in an area pertinent to the student's objective. Consent of internship coordinator required prior to the beginning of employment and registration. Typically done between the junior and senior year.
Pre: 50% of major
AET 499 (1-4) Individual Study
