The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Clemson is enhancing its established undergraduate research program through this summer component. The REU site involve students from Clemson and other institutions in a ten week program of research, seminars, and workshops. All of the activities challenge the participants intellectually and develop their critical thinking skills as well as their ability to work independently. The one-on-one contact with faculty and interaction with graduate students also introduce these students to the opportunities in graduate education and the career options in research and academia. The Department of Mechanical Engineering has demonstrated its interest in undergraduate research through the established Senior Departmental Honors program. This program includes a research component and the writing of a senior thesis. Fifty percent of the faculty of the department have participated in this program which spans the areas of thermal and fluid science, mechanical and manufacturing systems, engineering mechanics, and materials. The summer program complements this existing program and provides opportunities for a more diverse group of students.
