The undergraduate Mechanical Engineering program at UCSB offers a balanced curriculum, including both theory and application. This includes preparation in basic science, math, computing and writing; a comprehensive set of engineering science and laboratory courses; and a series of engineering design courses starting in the freshman year and concluding with a three-quarter design course sequence in the senior year. Our students gain hands-on expertise utilizing state-of-the-art tools for computational design, analysis and manufacturing that are increasingly used in industry, government and academic institutions.

Upon graduation, students in the mechanical engineering B.S. degree program: Should possess a solid foundation in, and be able to apply the principles of, mathematics, science,and engineering to solve problems and have the ability to learn new skills relevant to his/her chosen career. Have the ability to conduct and analyze data from experiments in dynamics, fluid dynamics, thermal science and materials, and should have been exposed to experimental design in at least one of these areas. Should have experienced the use of current software in problem solving and design. Should demonstrate the ability to design useful products, systems, and processes. Should be able to work effectively on teams. Should have an understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities. Should be able to write lab reports and design reports and give effective oral presentations. Should have the broad background in the humanities and the social sciences, which provides an awareness of contemporary issues and facilitates an understanding of the global and societal impact of engineering problems and solutions. Should be a member of or participate in a professional society. Under the direction of the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, academic advising services are jointly provided by advisors in the College of Engineering, as well as advisors in the department. In addition, departmental advisors are assigned to all students in the freshman year. A faculty advisor assists the students in the selection of departmental elective courses and provides counseling to students on a variety of issues related to their academic experience. Individual faculty are also available for help in program planning and professional development. Undergraduate students enrolled in other majors at UCSB who plan to change to a major in the Department of Mechanical Engineering should obtain counseling from the departmental academic advisor. The department offers programs leading to the degrees of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy, with a specialization in any of the following major areas: dynamical systems and controls; computational science and engineering; solid mechanics and structures, thermo-fluid sciences and materials; micro/nanoscale science (including MEMS). The curricula for all of the major areas emphasize education in broad principles and fundamentals. At the same time, programs of study and research are flexible and tailored to accommodate the individual needs and interests of the students. Interdisciplinary approaches are stressed, and students are encouraged to cross over traditional boundaries into other departments. Qualified students who wish to pursue advanced engineering education may apply to the M.S. or Ph.D. programs. The M.S. program is intended to extend and broaden the undergraduate background and equip practicing engineers with state-of-the-art knowledge in their field. The degree may be terminal or obtained on the way to the Ph.D. The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare students for careers in research and/or teaching in their area of specialization. A faculty supervisor and the graduate advisor, in conjunction with a graduate studies committee, direct the program of studies for M.S. and Ph.D. candidates. Mechanical engineering graduates at all levels are highly sought after by the automotive, aircraft, marine, defense, electronics, and materials manufacturing industries.