Example 2-A Concentrations

The 2-A program is designed to be flexible, and each student is responsible for creating a concentration that appropriately satisfies all the degree requirements and Course 2-A guidelines. With that in mind, many students will share similar interests. The example concentrations listed below can help you start to think about what a 2-A constration looks like and can give you a head start if you would like you program to be focused on one of these interest areas. 

 

Biomechanics and Biomedical Devices

Students pursuing this curriculum will be educated in bioengineering subjects with a strong mechanical engineering disciplinary background. The mission of a Bio program is to prepare future leaders in biomedicine, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industry.

This curriculum is designed to be flexible so that the students can explore the different aspects of bioengineering. Major areas covered in this example program include biomechanics, biomaterials, bioinstrumentation, and bio-inspired manufacturing. Furthermore, the Bio curriculum may be structured such that it is complementary to the both the biomedical engineering minor and the minor program in toxicology and environmental health. 

Suggested Concentration Subjects:

  • 2.184 Biomechanics and Neural Control of Movement
  • 2.673J Instrumentation and Measurement for Biological Systems 
  • 2.70J FUNdaMENTALS of Precision Product Design
  • 2.772J Thermodynamics of Biomolecular Systems
  • 2.78J Principles and Practice of Assistive Technology
  • 2.782J Design of Medical Devices and Implants
  • 2.787J Tissue Engineering and Organ Regeneration
  • 2.79J Biomaterials: Tissue Interactions
  • 2.791J Cellular Biophysics
  • 2.792J Quantitative Systems Physiology
  • 2.793J Fields, Forces and Flows in Biological Systems
  • 2.797J Molecular, Cellular, and Tissue Biomechanics
  • 2.750 Precision Machine Design (may replace 2.009 by petition)
  • 6.2000 (Old # 6.002) Circuits and Electronics
  • 6.2060 (Old # 6.115) Microcomputer Project Laboratory
  • 6.2220 (Old # 6.131) Power Electronics Laboratory
  • 6.3700(Old # 6.041) Introduction to Probability
  • 18.650 Statistics for Applications
  • 22.071J Electronics, Signals, and Measurement

 

BME Minors

Information about the undergraduate Minor Program in Biomedical Engineering
Information about the undergraduate Minor Program in Toxicology and Environmental Health
Pre-med office’s list of recommended classes
Minor Application Form

Computing

This curriculum allows students to learn about modeling of mechanical systems combined with topics in computing and numerical methods.

Note: The following classes are introductory: 6.100A (Old #6.0001)/6.00, 6.1200 (Old # 6.042) (REST)/18.200, 6.1910 (Old # 6.004) (REST), and 6.3800 (Old # 6.008).

Recommended Course 2 subjects

2.004 Dynamics and Control II

2.007 Design and Manufacturing I

 

Suggested Concentration Subjects

Computing

2.168 Learning Machines (GRAD) *

2.791[J] Cellular Neurophysiology and Computing

6.1010 (Old # 6.009) Fundamentals of Programming

6.1020 (Old # 6.031) Elements of Software Construction

6.1800 (Old # 6.033) Computer System Engineering

6.4100 (Old # 6.034) Artificial Intelligence

6.3900 (Old # 6.036) Introduction to Machine Learning

6.1220 (Old # 6.046) Design and Analysis of Algorithms

6.1040 (OId # 6.170) Software Studio

Will use 6.Sxxx number in future (Old # 6.883) Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence

Controls

2.14 Analysis and Design of Feedback Control Systems

2.151 Advanced System Dynamics and Control (GRAD)

2.152[J] Nonlinear Control (GRAD)

Mathematics

2.122 Stochastic Systems (GRAD) *

2.29 Numerical Fluid Mechanics (GRAD) *

18.05 Intro to Probability & Statistics -OR- 6.3700 Introduction to Probaility (Old # 6.041A + 6.041B)  

18.06 Linear Algebra - No engineering units

18.075 Methods for Scientists and Engineers

18.085 Computational Science and Engineering I

18.086 Computational Science and Engineering II

18.404 Theory of Computation

 

Control, Instrumentation and Robotics

Control, Instrumentation and Robotics or “CIR” or “2-A/6” is one of the most popular concentration programs in Course 2-A (Everybody loves robots!).  This example program enables students to combine studies in mechanical design and control from Course 2 with circuits, electronics and programming from Course 6.  As with all 2-A programs, there is a great deal of flexibility in designing your curriculum. 

Note: The following classes from the CS minor are introductory: 6.0001/6.00 (now 6.100L), 6.1200 (Old # 6.042) (REST)/18.200, 6.004 (REST), and 6.3800 (Old # 6.008).

Recommended Course 2 Subjects

  • 2.003 (Dynamics and Control I
  • 2.004 Dynamics and Control II
  • 2.007 Design and Manufacturing I
  • 2.12 Introduction to Robotics
  • 2.14 Analysis and Design of Feedback Control Systems

Additional Suggested Concentration Subjects

  • 2.002 Mechanics and Materials II
  • 2.008 Design and Manufacturing II
  • 2.017J Design of Electromechanical Robotic Systems
  • 2.151 Advanced System Dynamics and Control (GRAD)
  • 2.161 Signal Processing: Continuous and Discrete (GRAD)
  • 2.673 Instrumentation and Measurement for Biological Systems
  • 2.71 Optics
  • 2.737 Mechatronics (GRAD)
  • 6.9080 (Old # 6.01 and 6.02) Introduction to EECS via Robotics
  • 6.2000 (Old # 6.002) Circuits and Electronics
  • 6.3000 (Old # 6.003) Signal Processing
  • 6.1020 Software Construction
  • 6.4100 (Old # 6.034) Artificial Intelligence
  • 6.071 Electronics, Signals and Measurement
  • 6.2060 (Old # 6.115) Microcomputer Project Laboratory
  • 6.4200 (Old # 6.141J + 6.142J)  Robotics: Science and Systems 
  • 6.4530 (Old # 6.811) Principles and Practice of Assistive Technology
  • 16.30 Feedback Control Systems
  • 16.35 Real-time Systems and Software
  • 16.410 Principles of Autonomy and Decision Making

 

 

Energy Conversion Engineering

Students who wish to gain strong foundation in mechanical engineering with greater depth in energy conversion and utilization technologies may want to create a concentration in Energy Conversion Engineering. Graduates of this program will be prepared to analyze, design and build efficient and sustainable energy systems that exploit the rapid pace of progress in the field. Conversion from different fossil, renewable and nuclear sources, utilization in transportation, residential and industrial applications, and the integration of systems while addressing the constraints, form the essence and contents of many of the classes offered in this example program. By selecting appropriate classes in their concentrations, students pursuing this program may also obtain a Minor in Energy Studies. The (M) annotation indicates classes that are on the approved list of classes for a Minor in Energy Studies.

 

Recommended Course 2 Subjects

  • 2.004 Dynamics and Control II
  • 2.006 Thermal-Fluids Engineering II

Suggested Concentration Subjects

  • 2.28 Fundamentals and Applications of Combustion (GRAD)
  • 2.42 General Thermodynamics (GRAD)
  • 2.51 Intermediate Heat and Mass Transfer
  • 2.60J Fundamentals of Advanced Energy Conversion (M)
  • 2.61 Internal Combustion Engines (GRAD)
  • 2.612 Marine Power and Propulsion (M)
  • 2.625 Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage: Fundamentals, Materials and Applications (GRAD)
  • 2.627 Fundamentals of Photovoltaics (M)
  • 2.650J Introduction to Sustainable Energy (M)
  • 2.66J Fundamentals of Energy in Buildings (M)
  • 2.813 Energy, Materials, and Manufacturing
  • 6.007 Electromagnetic Energy: From Motors to Lasers (M)
  • 6.2200 (Old # 6.061) Introduction to Electrical Power Systems (U)
  • 6.2220 (Old #6.131) Power Electronics Laboratory (U)
  • 10.27: Energy Engineering Projects Laboratory (M)
  • 10.426: Electrochemical Energy Systems
  • 22.05 Neutron Science and Reactor Physics
  • 22.06 Engineering of Nuclear Systems (M)

Additional resources to help you choose classes may be found here.

 

 

Engineering Management

2-A programs centered around Engineeirng Management can be tricky to put together because there is a fine balance that must be struck between managerial and engineering classes. Because of this challenge, the program advisor, Professor Chun, strongly recommends that students make an appointment with him so that he can suggest appropriate classes that align with the individual student’s interests. If classes in the concentration do not fully count for engineering units, extra engineering units will be needed. 

Engineering Management deals with the engineering relationships between the management tasks of planning, organization, leadership, control, and the human element in production, research, and service organizations; and it also deals with the stochastic nature of management systems. Engineering management involves the integration of management systems into different technological environments.

Students pursuing an Engineering Management program may also wish to consider a Minor in Management Science or a Minor in Management.

Recommended Concentration Subjects

  • 2.916: Money for Startups
  • 2.96: Management in Engineering
  • 3.080: Economic and Environmental Materials Selection
  • 15.053: Optimization Methods in Management Science
  • 15.075: Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis
  • Most classes listed under “Operations Management” (15.760 – 15.799)
  • 15.871: Introduction to System Dynamics (GRAD)
  • 15.872: System Dynamics II (GRAD)

Other strongly recommended subjects with no (or reduced) engineering content

  • 6.9310 (Old #6.903J)/15.628J: Patents, Copyrights, and the Law of Intellectual Property
  • 15.501: Corporate Financial Accounting
  • 15.616: Basic Businesses Law, Tilted Towards Strategy and Innovation (GRAD)
  • 15.812: Marketing Management

 

Entrepreneurship

All of us at MIT have at least one thing in common: in some way or another, we all want to make a positive impact on the world. At some point during your time at MIT, it’s most likely that you will develop a brilliant solution to a real-world problem. This example Entrepreneurship program has been designed to empower you with the knowledge, skills, resources, and connections you need to get your ideas off the ground, fully developed, and out to market in order to make a real-world, lasting impact. 

Students pursuing an Entrepreneurship program may also wish to consider a Minor in Management Science or a Minor in Management.

Recommended Concentration Subjects

  • 2.008 Design & Manufacturing II
  • MAS.863J How To Make (Almost) Anything (GRAD)
  • 2.916: Money for Startups
  • 2.96 Management in Engineering
  • 6.933 Entrepreneurship in Engineering: The Founder’s Journey
  • 2.Thu Undergraduate Thesis in Mechanical Engineering
  • 6.902 Engineering Innovation and Design (GEL)

Other recommended subjects with no (or reduced) engineering content

  • 11.011 The Art and Science of Negotiation (no engineering units)
  • 15.501 Corporate Financial Accounting (9 engineering units)
  • 15.812 Marketing Management (3 engineering units)
  • 14.01 Microeconomics (no engineering units)
  • 14.02 Macroeconomics (no engineering units)
  • 15.615 Basic Business Law for the Entrepreneur and Manager (GRAD)
  • 15.390 New Enterprises, or 15.371 Innovation Teams (GRAD) (engineering units may vary depending on the project)
  • 6.9310 (Old #6.903J)/15.628J: Patents, Copyrights, and the Law of Intellectual Property

Other recommended activities include:

  • GEL Gordon Engineering Leadership Program
  • Industry Internship/Externship experiences
  • Industry classes (e.g. 15.054 The Airline Industry)
  • Mentored Entrepreneurial Experience such as
    15.S24 Applications of Advanced Entrepreneurial Techniques

 

Industrial Design

Note that there are many excellent classes at MIT relevant to industrial design that do not necessarily include engineering content. We encourage 2-A students to take these classes and include them in their concentration however, since 2-A is an engineering degree, the student’s program must include at least 72 units of engineering beyond the required core subjects.

Suggested Subjects with full engineering content (i.e. for the classes listed below, the number of units is the same as the number of engineering units):

  • 2.007 Design and Manufacturing I
  • 2.008 Design and Manufacturing II
  • 2.739  Product Design and Development (GRAD)
  • 2.744 Product Design (GRAD)
  • 2.72 Elements of Mechanical Design
  • 2.729: D-Lab Design for Scale
  • 4.031 Design Studio: Objects and Interaction
  • 4.051 The Human Factor in Design Innovation & Strategy
  • 4.500 Introduction to Design Computing
  • 4.504 Design Scripting
  • 6.813 User Interface Design and Implementation (prereq 6.005)
  • 16.400 Human Systems Engineering
  • (6.902) Engineering Innovation and Design (GEL)
  • MAS.865 How to Make (Almost) Anything (GRAD)

Suggested subjects with reduced or no engineering content

  • 4.022 Design Studio: Introduction to Design Techniques and Technologies
  • 4.032 Design Studio: Information and Visualization
  • 4.301 Introduction to Artistic Experimentation*
  • 4.302 Foundations in Art, Design and Spatial Practices
  • 4.322 Introduction to Three-Dimensional Art Work (HASS-A)*
  • 4.602 Modern Art and Mass Culture (HASS-A, CI-H)
  • MAS.131 Computational Camera and Photography (6 engineering units)
  • 4.344 Advanced Photography and Related Media (HASS-A)*
  • 4.352 Advanced Video and Related Media (HASS-A)*
  • 4.520 Visual Computing I
  • MAS.110 Fundamentals of Computational Media Design (HASS-A, CI-H)*

Learning Machines & Physical Systems

This example program considers the intersection between physical and artificial machines by combining mechanical design and modeling with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and/or computation.

Note: The following classes are introductory: 6.0001/6.00, 6.042 (REST)/18.200, 6.004 (REST), and 6.008.

Recommended Core Subjects

2.004 Dynamics and Control II

2.007 Design and Manufacturing

Suggested Concentration Subjects

You are encouraged to select subjects across categories:

Physical systems

2.12 Introduction to Robotics

2.74 Bio-inspired Robotics

2.008 Design and Manufacturing II

2.72 Elements of Mechanical Design

2.797[J] Molecular, Cellular, and Tissue Biomechanics

2.813 Energy, Materials, and Manufacturing

Controls

2.14 Analysis and Design of Feedback Control Systems

2.184 Biomechanics and Neural Control of Movement

2.151 Advanced System Dynamics and Control (GRAD)

2.153 Adaptive Control and Connections to Machine Learning (GRAD)

2.152[J] Nonlinear Control (GRAD)

Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Computing

2.791[J] Cellular Neurophysiology and Computing

2.168 Learning Machines (GRAD)  *

6.1010 (Old # 6.009) Fundamentals of Programming

6.4100 (Old # 6.034) Artificial Intelligence

6.3900 (Old # 6.036) Introduction to Machine Learning

6.883 Advanced Topics in Artificial Intelligence

Mathematics

2.122 Stochastic Systems (GRAD) *

2.29 Numerical Fluid Mechanics (GRAD) *

18.05 Intro to Probability & Statistics -OR- 6.041A  Intro to Probability I + 6.041B  Intro to Probability II

18.06 Linear Algebra - No engineering units

18.075 Methods for Scientists and Engineers

 

Manufacturing

An advanced manufacturing program is for those interested in how advanced manufacturing, and product realization work in the modern world.  This includes how processes, automation, systems and design all interact to create the responsive production systems that world-class companies possess. It is also a great way to prepare for entry into the ME Master of Engineering in Manufacturing degree program. It is a broad program that includes design, controls, and systems, as well as processes and management.  This example program would complement a Management minor focused on operation management.

Recommended Course 2 Subjects

  • 2.002 Mechanics and Materials II
  • 2.004 Dynamics and Control II
  • 2.008 Design and Manufacturing II

Suggested Concentration Subjects

  • 2.14 Analysis and Design of Feedback Control Systems
  • 2.12 Robotics
  • 2.72 Machine Design
  • 2.750 Precision Machine Design
  • 2.830 Manufacturing Process Control (GRAD)
  • 2.853 Introduction to Manufacturing Systems
  • 2.96 Management for Engineers
  • 2.888 Professional Seminar in Global Manufacturing Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  • 2.370 Fundamentals of Nanoengineering
  • 2.813 Energy, Materials and Manufacturing
  • 6.2600 (Old # 6.152J) Micro/Nano Processing Technology
  • 15.075J Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis
  • 15.053 Optimization Methods in Management Science
  • 15.668 People and Organizations (no engineering units)
  • 15.724[J] Manufacturing System and Supply Chain Design (GRAD)

 

Micro/Nano Engineering

A concentration focusing on Micro/Nano prepares students for the rapidly growing field of micro and nanotechnology while providing a strong foundation in mechanical engineering. Micro and nanotechnology will continue to have a tremendous impact on a wide range of mechanical systems. Examples are microelectromechanical devices and systems that are already deployed as automobile airbag sensors and for drug delivery, stronger and lighter nanostructured materials now used in automobiles, nanostructured energy conversion devices that significantly improve the efficiency of macroscale energy systems, etc. Many faculty members in our department pursue research in micro and nano science and technology; this research cuts across mechanical engineering disciplines and other disciplines. Examples are sensors and actuators; fluidics, heat transfer, and energy conversion at the micro- and nanoscale; optical and biological micro- and nano-electromechanical systems (MEMS and NEMS); engineered three-dimensional nanomaterials; ultra-precision engineering; and the application of optics in measurement, sensing, and systems design. Classes offered in this example program cover both fundamental theories and hands-on experience.

Strongly Recommended Concentration Subjects

  • 2.370 Molecular Mechanics
  • 2.772J Thermodynamics of Biomolecular Systems
  • 6.2600 (Old # 6.152J) Micro/Nano Processing Technology

Additional Suggested Concentration Subjects

  • 1.021J Introduction to Modeling and Simulation
  • 2.180 Biomolecular Feedback Systems
  • 2.374J Design and Fabrication of Microelectromechanical Devices
  • 2.391J Submicrometer and Nanometer Technology (GRAD)
  • 2.500 Desalination and Water Purification (GRAD)
  • 2.570 Nano-to-Macro Transport Processes
  • 2.60 Fundamentals of Advanced Energy Conversion
  • 2.627 Fundamentals of Photovoltaics
  • 2.673 Instrumentation and Measurement for Biological Systems
  • 2.674 Micro/Nano Engineering Laboratory
  • 2.71 Optics
  • 2.715 Optical Microscopy and Spectroscopy for Biology and Medicine (GRAD)
  • 2.760 Multi-Scale System Design and Manufacturing
  • 2.793 Fields, Forces and Flows in Biological Systems
  • 2.ThU Undergraduate Thesis

 

 

Product Development [PD]

Students interested in Product Development may construct a concentration that prepares them to be future leaders in the engineering of new products. Many subjects are from the school of management and is a good option for students interested in management careers or entrepreneurship. Major areas in a PD program will include design, manufacturing, economics, marketing, organizational behavior, accounting, and intellectual property law. This curriculum is structured such that it is complementary to the Management minor offered by the Sloan School.

Recommended Course 2 Subjects

  • 2.002: Mechanics and Materials II

Suggested Concentration Subjects

  • 15.301: Managerial Psychology Laboratory
  • 15.812: Marketing Management 
  • 15.501: Corporate Financial Accounting 
  • 15.053: Optimization Methods in Management Science
  • 15.075: Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis
  • 2.008: Design and Manufacturing II
  • 2.72: Elements of Mechanical Design
  • 2.739J: Product Design and Development (GRAD)
  • 2.744: Product Design (GRAD)
  • 6.071: Electronics, Signals and Measurement
  • 6.3700 (Old # 6.041): Introduction to Probability
  • 6.9310 (Old # 6.903J)/15.628J: Patents, Copyrights, and the Law of Intellectual Property

In addition, students who are interested in designing electro-mechanical systems are encouraged to take classes in Course 6 (e.g. 6.002). PD program students are encouraged to intern with design or manufacturing companies during the summer of their sophomore or junior years.

 

 

Sustainable and Global Development

Concentrations centered around Sustainible and Global Development can be coupled to the minor programs in Environmental Engineering Science or Applied International Studies, as well as several HASS minors.

One of the tricky aspects of putting together a 2-A curriculum in sustainability is that there are many excellent classes at MIT relevant to sustainability that do not necessarily include engineering content. 

Suggested subjects with full engineering content (i.e. for the classes listed below, the number of units is the same as the number of engineering units):

Sustainable Development

  • 1.006 – Tools for Sustainable Design; 12 Units, U (Spring), D. Plata
  • 1.009 – Climate Change; 3 Units, U (Fall), E. Eltahir
  • 1.020: Ecology II: Engineering for Sustainability
  • 1.080/1.107: Environmental Chemistry and Biology
  • 2.500: Desalination and Water Purification (GRAD)
  • 2.60 – Fundamentals of Advanced Energy Conversion 12 units U (Spring) A. Ghoniem , W. Green
  • 2.650 – Introduction to Sustainable Energy 12 units U (Fall) M. Golay
  • 2.66J Fundamentals of Energy in Buildings
  • 2.722: D-Lab: Design
  • 2.812 – Solving for Carbon Neutrality at MIT; 12 Units, U (Spring), T. Gutowski & J. Newman
  • 2.813: Environmentally Benign Design and Manufacturing
  • 2.814 – Exploring Sustainability at Different Scales; 12 Units, U (Fall), T. Gutowski
  • 3.080: Economic and Environmental Materials Selection
  • 3.081 – Industrial Ecology of Materials; 12 Units, U (Fall), E. Olivetti
  • 3.087 – Materials, Societal Impact and Social Innovation; 12 Units, U (Fall), C. Ortiz & E. Spero
  • EC.711: D-Lab: Energy

Global Development

  • 1.020: Ecology II: Engineering for Sustainability
  • 1.080/1.107: Environmental Chemistry and Biology
  • 1.851J: Water and Sanitation Infrastructure in Developing Countries (GRAD)
  • 2.650: Sustainable Energy
  • 2.66J Fundamentals of Energy in Buildings
  • 2.722: D-Lab: Design
  • 2.813: Environmentally Benign Design and Manufacturing
  • 2.965J: International Supply Chain Management (GRAD)
  • 3.080: Economic and Environmental Materials Selection
  • EC.711: D-Lab: Energy
  • EC.721: Wheelchair Design in Developing Countries

Suggested subjects with limited or no engineering content:

  • 1.801J: Environmental Law, Policy, and Economics: Pollution Prevention and Control (HASS-S)*
  • 4.231J: SIGUS Workshop
  • 11.491J: Economic Development and Policy Analysis I (GRAD)
  • 11.601: Introduction to Environmental Policy and Planning — 3 engineering units (GRAD)
  • 12.021 – Earth Science, Energy, and the Environment; 12 Units, U (Fall), B.H. Hager
  • 12.301 – Climate Science; 12 Units, U (Fall), K. Emanuel & E. Boyle 
  • 12.346 – Global Environmental Negotiation; 6 Units, U (Fall), N.E. Selin
  • 12.377 – The History of Earth’s Climate; 12 Units, U (Spring), D. McGee
  • 12.385 – Science, Politics, and Environmental Policy; 9 Units, U (Fall), S. Solomon & J. Knox-Hayes
  • 12.387 – People and the Planet: Environmental Governance and Science; 9 Units, U (Fall), N. Selin, S. Solomon & J. Sterman
  • 14.42: Environmental Policy and Economics (HASS-S)*
  • 14.44: Energy Economics and Policy (HASS-S)*
  • 14.74: Foundations of Development Policy (I) (HASS-S)*
  • 14.771: Development Economics: Microeconomic Issues and Policy Models (GRAD)
  • 14.772: Development Economics: Macroeconomics (GRAD)
  • 17.181: Sustainable Development: Theory, Research and Policy (I) (HASS-S)*
  • 12.348J: Global Climate Change: Economics, Science and Policy — 6 engineering units
  • EC.701: D-Lab: Development (I) (HASS-S)*
  • EC.715: D-Lab: Disseminating Innovations for the Common Good (I)
  • MAS.665J: Development Ventures (GRAD)