MSE 5540

Introduction to Additive Manufacturing

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This course will explore the history, technologies, materials, and applications of additive manufacturing in fields ranging from mechanical engineering and composites, to complex data visualization and product design. A unique aspect of this course is that a large percentage of the presented topics will be directly dictated by the current research interests of the enrolled students. Upon completion of the course, the students will have gained a comprehensive understanding of different 3D printing technologies, understand the material properties of different polymer classes, and be able to select appropriate polymeric materials for specific 3D printing applications in the engineering, biological, and product design fields. As a class, the students will also compile a set of design rules for optimizing 3D printability, performance, and surface finish for each 3D printing technology, and be able to apply these rules for the production of press and snap-fit assemblies, functional multicomponent mechanisms, multi-phase composites, and other physical constructs.

Distribution Requirements (CE-EN)

Exploratory Studies (CU-SBY)

Last 4 Terms Offered (None)

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of different 3D printing technologies and identify the appropriate technology for a specific manufacturing application.
• Students will be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of the different polymeric material classes employed in the field of additive manufacturing, and their suitable use cases.
• Students will demonstrate an ability to compile sets of optimized design rules for specific 3D printing applications, such as the production of snap-fit assemblies or functional multi-component mechanisms.
• Students will be able to demonstrate how the use of additive manufacturing can add value to a product’s design, in terms of improved performance, improved manufacturability, reduced cost, or improved sustainability.

View Enrollment Information