Senior capstone Design Expo
The Senior Capstone Design Program is a cornerstone of the engineering curriculum, providing students with a unique, real-world experience that bridges the gap between academics and professional practice. This two-semester program is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary course that challenges students to apply everything they’ve learned during their time at CMU.
How it works
All engineering students participate in the same senior design course, fostering collaboration and cross-disciplinary teamwork. Students work in diverse teams on a prototyping project sponsored by a corporate partner. These projects reflect the multidisciplinary nature of real-world engineering, simulating the types of challenges engineers face in industries such as automotive, construction, food and beverage, process, and utilities. Practicing engineers from the sponsoring companies guide and support the teams throughout the project, providing invaluable professional mentorship.
Key benefits
Real-world experience: The capstone program mirrors professional engineering projects, offering students a chance to work in multidisciplinary teams and meet the acceptance criteria of corporate sponsors.
Skill application: Students integrate and apply knowledge gained from their entire academic journey, honing technical and problem-solving skills.
Professional preparation: By collaborating with industry professionals and presenting their work publicly, students gain confidence and experience that sets them apart in the job market.
Senior Design Expo
The highlight of the program is the Senior Design Expo, where students showcase their prototypes to the public. This event allows students to present their projects, participate in discussions, and demonstrate their communication and technical skills. As one of several communication-intensive courses in the curriculum, the capstone course emphasizes the importance of effectively conveying complex ideas—a crucial skill for professional engineers.
Why it matters
The Senior Capstone Design Program at CMU will prepare you not just to enter the workforce, but to excel in it. Employers value the hands-on experience and multidisciplinary collaboration that you'll bring to the table. Completing the capstone course and participating in the Senior Design Expo will give you a competitive edge as you transition to your career.