May 25, 2026  
2026-2027 Undergraduate Academic Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Undergraduate Academic Catalog
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BME 2641 - Introduction to Biomechanics

1 lecture hours 0 lab hours 1 credits
Course Description
This asynchronous introductory course provides a foundational overview of human biomechanics, focusing on the basic principles of kinematics and kinetics as they apply to biological systems. The course introduces core engineering dynamics concepts (forces, moments, linear and angular motion) and immediately links them to understanding human movement and musculoskeletal function. Key topics include defining anatomical terminology (planes and axes), reviewing muscle mechanics and energy concepts, and exploring fundamental applications in sports, rehabilitation, and occupational biomechanics. The course emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding and the ability to qualitatively describe biomechanical phenomena, rather than detailed mathematical analysis or in-person data collection.
Prereq: None
Note: Students who have completed BME 3410  are not eligible to enroll in this course.
This course meets the following Raider Core CLO Requirement: None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Define the fundamental concepts of kinematics (position, velocity, acceleration) and kinetics (force, moment, work, energy) and describe their relevance to the analysis of human motion
  • Define and correctly apply anatomical planes, axes, and directional terms when describing human joint motions and segment movements
  • Explain the application of the principles of work, energy, impulse, and momentum in human movement scenarios
  • Summarize the basic physiology and mechanics of skeletal muscle contraction, including concepts of the mechanical function of major joints
  • Identify and describe common, basic applications of biomechanical principles in areas such as occupational ergonomics (e.g., safe lifting) and human movement analysis (e.g., gait)
  • Describe the general function and appropriate use of fundamental biomechanical measurement tools like force plates, motion capture systems, and electromyography (EMG) as investigational tools

Prerequisites by Topic
  • None

Coordinator
Dr. Ahmed Sayed



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