Program overview
Solid mechanics is a core branch of mechanics. Simply put, it studies how solid materials (such as metals, ceramics, and composites) deform and fail under external forces. You will learn fundamental theories like elasticity, plasticity, and fracture mechanics, as well as practical tools such as finite element analysis and experimental mechanics. Core courses include: continuum mechanics, elasticity, plasticity, fracture and damage mechanics, computational mechanics, and experimental mechanics. This major is especially suitable for students who enjoy physics and mathematics and are curious about 'why things break.' Chinese universities have unique strengths in this field—for example, Tsinghua University, Peking University, University of Science and Technology of China, and the Institute of Mechanics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences all have strong research teams and experimental facilities. Many professors collaborate directly with aerospace, high-speed rail, and automotive companies, giving students opportunities to participate in real projects.