a) History of Development

Arising from practical needs, the Faculty proposed the establishment of the Mechanical Engineering program (ME Program), which was approved in 2019. The ME Program commenced in the academic year 2019-2020, with 06 cohorts currently being trained. From the outset, the ME Program was developed following the CDIO approach and oriented towards ABET accreditation. Therefore, the Faculty built the curriculum by referencing equivalent ME programs from advanced universities worldwide (National Taiwan University, University of Illinois, National University of Singapore, The University of Texas at San Antonio, Lehigh University). The program is regularly reviewed and updated annually, in line with the development of science and technology and to meet the practical demands for high-quality human resources. This includes reforms in teaching and learning methods, integrating theoretical training with practical application, supplementing soft skills courses, and applying digital technology. Specifically, there were two major revisions to the objectives, expected learning outcomes (ELOs), and curriculum in the years 2024 and 2025.

One hundred percent of graduated students secure immediate employment. Furthermore, some 4th-year students have already been recruited by companies for jobs that align with their training, such as 3D simulation, drawing decomposition, CNC machine programming, and product design. The demand for graduates is high, and the current output of graduates is insufficient to meet the actual needs of businesses. Annually, the number of applications for the Mechanical Engineering major is high, and the entrance score is among the highest, positioning it as one of the top majors in the University.

b) Programme Objectives and Learning Outcomes

b1) Programme Educational Objectives (PEOs) of the Mechanical Engineering Programme

PEO1: To educate mechanical engineers with a solid foundation in engineering and technology, capable of identifying and solving technical problems in the design, manufacturing, and operation of mechanical systems.

PEO2: To develop the ability to design, develop, and improve mechanical systems, components, and products, taking into account economic, social, and environmental factors in the context of globalization.

PEO3: To foster communication, teamwork, and leadership skills in multidisciplinary and international engineering environments, with effective use of technical graphics, language, and professional English.

PEO4: To cultivate lifelong learning, research capability, adaptability to technological and labor market changes, and readiness to meet the demands of the new industrial revolution.
b2) Programme Learning Outcomes (PLOs) of the Mechanical Engineering Programme

PLO1. Apply knowledge of mathematics, physics, mechanics, engineering, and technology to identify, formulate, and solve problems in the field of mechanical engineering, from basic to advanced levels.

PLO2. Design, develop, and improve mechanical systems, components, and technical products, taking into account economic and social factors in the context of globalization.

PLO3. Conduct experiments, simulations, measurements, and technical evaluations; analyze data and propose appropriate solutions in design, manufacturing, and technical inspection.

PLO4. Apply modern technologies such as CAD/CAM/CAE, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and other emerging tools in research, design, production, and operation of mechanical systems.

PLO5. Communicate effectively through oral, written, graphical, and technical English in professional and interdisciplinary environments.

PLO6. Work effectively in engineering, multidisciplinary, and international teams, and demonstrate leadership when necessary.

PLO7. Recognize and fulfill professional, ethical, and social responsibilities in the design, production, and operation of mechanical products; ensure safety, sustainability, and compliance with laws and regulations.

PLO8. Apply research methods, self-learning strategies, and professional development skills to acquire and implement new technological advancements, adapting to practical requirements and labor market demands in the new industrial era.

b3) Alignment of PLOs with UGA, ULO and Professional Standards

Table: Mapping Matrix between PLOs, ULOs, UGAs

Alignment of Programme Learning Outcomes (PLOs) with University Graduate Attributes (UGAs), University Learning Outcomes (ULOs), and Professional Standards

Framework / Standards	Related PLOs
UGA (University Graduate Attributes)	Fully cover UGA1–UGA5 (ethics, creativity, social responsibility, lifelong learning, adaptability).
ULO (University Learning Outcomes)	ULO1 (PLO1–2), ULO2 (PLO3), ULO7 (PLO4), ULO4 (PLO5–6), ULO5 (PLO7), ULO6–8 (PLO8).
Vietnam National Qualifications Framework – Level 7	Demonstrate advanced knowledge and integrated skills with a high level of autonomy, accountability, and professional responsibility.
AUN-QA (ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance)	Comply with AUN-QA criteria 1.3, 1.4, 2.1–2.5, 3.2, and 3.5, ensuring outcome-based education alignment.
ABET – Student Outcomes (2023)	Directly aligned with SO1–SO7, covering technical ability, ethics, teamwork, communication, and lifelong learning.
CDIO Standards	CDIO Standards 2.0: from Conceiving–Designing–Implementing–Operating (CDIO) to innovation and technological adaptation.
ASIIN Level 7	Reflects advanced engineering competencies – integrating theoretical knowledge with professional practice.
SDGs and 21st Century Skills	Critical thinking, creativity, social responsibility, sustainability, accountability, ICT literacy, and collaboration.

c) Programme Structure

c1) General Structure of the Study Programme

The Mechanical Engineering Programme is designed following the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) approach and aligned with the Vietnam National Qualifications Framework – Level 7 and AUN-QA standards.
The total study load for the full programme is 180 credits (ECTS-equivalent system), including 120 credits for the Bachelor level and 60 credits for the Engineering specialization level.

Bachelor Level: 120 Credits

Component	Credits	Details
General Education Knowledge	53
– Mathematics and Basic Sciences	30	Fundamental courses in mathematics, physics, and engineering sciences.
– Political Theory and Law	13	Courses on philosophy, political economy, and legal studies.
– English and Informatics	10	English proficiency and computer literacy courses.
Professional Education Knowledge	67
– Basic Engineering Courses	42	Fundamental courses in mechanical and technical disciplines.
– Specialized Courses	25	Core courses in mechanical engineering applications.

 Engineering Specialization Level: 60 Credits

Component	Credits	Description
Management Science and Digital Technology	6	Courses in management, innovation, and digital transformation.
Advanced Core Courses (interdisciplinary across Level-7 programmes)	24	Advanced knowledge integrating across engineering fields.
Specialized / Professional Skills Courses	12	Technical electives and professional development modules.
Industrial Internship	8	On-site internship in enterprises or research institutes.
Graduation Thesis / Capstone Project	10	Independent research or applied engineering project.

Total: 180 Credits

c2) Programme Framework and Benchmarking

The curriculum framework of the Mechanical Engineering Programme (ME) has been benchmarked against the curricula of nationally and internationally accredited universities to ensure compatibility and competitiveness.
Detailed benchmarking results and comparative analyses are presented in Appendix 1.

d) Resources Supporting the Programme

d1) Academic Staff

The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering possesses a team of highly qualified academic staff with extensive teaching and research experience.
Most lecturers hold doctoral degrees and have substantial practical experience gained from working in industries and research organizations.

In addition to their teaching and research responsibilities, many lecturers are actively involved in supervising students in scientific research projects, academic competitions, and national contests such as the Student Scientific Research Awards, Mechanics Olympiad, Physics Olympiad, and Robocon Competitions.

The number of student scholarships has shown a steady increase over the years — from 5 scholarship recipients in the 2019–2020 academic year to 20 recipients in 2024–2025, reflecting the growing quality and engagement of both students and staff.

d2) Facilities and Infrastructure

The Faculty provides modern teaching and learning facilities to support the delivery of the programme effectively.
Classrooms are well-equipped with multimedia systems and learning tools. Laboratories are furnished with advanced instruments that enable students to perform hands-on experiments and apply theoretical knowledge to practice.

The university library offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources related to mechanical engineering and relevant disciplines.

A highlight is the Experimental Mechanical Research Laboratory, which is fully equipped for specialized experiments and practical training. It is open throughout all working days, providing students with continuous access to research and innovation activities.

This lab also serves as a hub for student engagement, including the Automation Club, student research groups, and undergraduate research projects, creating an active and collaborative learning environment.
 

e) Networks and External Relations

Domestic Cooperation

The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering maintains close collaborations with various universities, research institutes, and enterprises in the mechanical engineering field.
Key partner universities include Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), and University of Transport and Communications (UTC).

Research collaborations are developed with institutions such as the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) and the Institute of Mechanical Research, among others.
Industry partnerships extend to numerous construction corporations, manufacturing companies, and mechanical engineering enterprises nationwide.

The Faculty also maintains a strong alumni network, which plays an essential role in connecting current students with professionals in the field.
Through these networks, students are provided with opportunities for internships, field studies, and participation in real industrial research projects.
Many students have been offered employment by companies during their final-year internships or even earlier, demonstrating the strong link between academia and industry.
 

International Cooperation

In addition to domestic partnerships, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering engages in international collaboration with universities and institutions in Japan, Taiwan, China, Germany, and South Korea.
These partnerships include academic exchanges, research collaboration, and student mobility programs, contributing to the Faculty’s internationalization strategy.
 

f) Graduate Students and Employment

To date, two cohorts have graduated and four cohorts are currently enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering Programme.
Nearly 100 students have graduated, with an employment rate of over 80% in positions relevant to their major.

Employment Opportunities

The demand for mechanical engineers in Vietnam remains high, and the number of graduates from the programme each year does not yet meet industry needs.
Graduates from the Mechanical Engineering Programme are consistently highly evaluated by employers, and many companies return annually to recruit new graduates from the Faculty.
 

Typical Career Paths for Graduates

1. Mechanical Design Engineer
Evaluate project requirements; assess performance of mechanical components, equipment, and engines; utilize CAD/CAM/CAE software for modeling and simulation; develop and implement design and testing procedures.

2. Production / Field Engineer
Plan and organize design implementation; analyze product performance and deformation; inspect and test products to ensure quality and compliance.

3. CAD–CAM Engineer
Use programming tools such as CAM-TOOL, Mastercam, CADmeister, CATIA Machining, SolidCAM, and Cimarron; provide technical solutions for CAD–CAM applications and production optimization.

4. Sales Engineer
Identify and develop potential clients in the mechanical manufacturing sector; analyze customer needs; propose technical solutions and quotations; provide customer consultation on products and engineering issues.

5. Research and Development (R&D) Engineer
Design product components and features; perform analysis and testing; develop machinery and production lines; define technical specifications; supervise prototyping and production transfer; apply new technologies in product development.

6. Lecturer / Academic Career
Graduates who pursue postgraduate studies (Master’s or Doctoral programmes) may become lecturers or researchers at universities and colleges offering mechanical or related engineering disciplines.