Applied Mechanics is a research and technology field for the development of useful systems based on the laws of physics and the use of resources and energy. Aerospace Engineering is the combination of various mechanical technologies, and packed with state-of-the-art applied mechanics technology. In our department, education is centered around Mathematics and Physics, and four engineering fields, namely, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Mechanical Mechanics, which are fundamental to mechanical engineering.
The aerospace engineering field will exert a dynamic traction effect on top of this foundation. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to conduct advanced original research in each field. Our aim is to contribute to society by providing world-class education to future engineers who can play an active role globally through their research.
Fundamental knowledge, basic knowledge, and creative thinking are indispensable in various application fields. Therefore, the undergraduate curriculum starts with learning the basics of engineering, and becomes more specialized in subsequent years. The courses offered by the graduate school focus on research themes that match the needs of society.
Specifically, in the first year, students will become versed in the use of basic mathematics in the engineering field. In the second year, students will learn the basics of mechanical and aerospace engineering. Mechanical Science is based on physics and mathematics. In this field, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Mechanical Mechanics are basic subjects, and the fundamental philosophy of the department is to educate students on the basic science of mechanical systems. The Aerospace field is an academic field that has evolved at the cutting edge of mechanical technology, and is a representative field of integrated engineering.
Before the Second World War, Waseda University had an aircraft department within its technical department. After the war, the department was merged into the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology. The department’s objective is to make the best use of the technological chain and ripple effects induced by the aerospace field as a guide for the development of mechanical engineering applications in the 21st century. Consequently, the goal of this department is not simply to provide education or conduct research on specific subjects, such as aircraft and spacecraft, but also cultivate scientific thinking with regard to mechanical science and engineering. Thus, the purpose of the department is to provide a complete education and foster the perception of research as a contribution to academia and industry.
The Department of Mechanical Science and Aerospace is the core of Waseda Mechanical Engineering, whose origin is the Department of Aircraft established in 1944. Here, students have opportunity to study subjects that are useful for research and society under the supervision of professors and senior students. Alumni and alumnae are active in various fields, and an extensive human networks can assist students in various situations.
With the integrated education of undergraduate and graduate schools, undergraduate training emphasizes the foundations of applied research. The faculty consists of global researchers, and strives to stimulate learning. Students can actively enroll in subjects from other faculties and departments to acquire knowledge that goes beyond science. After graduation, students can work on their own research with the provision of replete facilities.
Based on an alliance with the ANA Group, we provide access to aircraft operation and maintenance technologies. A comprehensive agreement has been made with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for the active exchange of research and human resources. International opportunities, such as endowed courses and internships by Airbus, are available, and expose students to state-of-the-art technologies and practices.
The Faculty of Science and Engineering has an English degree program whose objective is to develop scientists and engineers that can thrive on the global stage. Our department offers several specialized English courses. Additionally, our faculty provides useful English education focused writing, presentation, and communication, mainly with regard to science and technology. The language training at Waseda University has been shown to be superior to that offered by other universities, including tutorial education.
