Description: Introduction to differential and integral formulations, minimum principles, variational principles, weighted residuals, energy principles, and principle of virtual work. Boundary, initial, and eigenvalue problems. Finite element and finite difference methods for structural mechanics. Applications to static and dynamic truss beams and frame problems. MATLAB programming and use of computer software. Cross-list: CEVE 527. Mutually Exclusive: Cannot register for MECH 527 if student has credit for MECH 427.