The bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is broadly designed to accommodate a variety of career goals. Students take a core of required courses in engineering, the humanities, mathematics and science, as well as supplementary elective courses. These courses introduce basic engineering science and design concepts and provide students with the opportunity to develop specific career interests in sub-fields of mechanical engineering such as renewable energy, nanotechnology or biomedical engineering. Our nationally ranked program gives students the chance to work closely with distinguished faculty and get hands-on experience as they move from building Lego cars as freshmen to designing a capstone project of their own choosing as seniors. Students can take advantage of two teaching labs as well as a full-service machine and welding shop used for student projects and research equipment.

Mechanical engineers may play a role in the design or construction of anything that moves, from tiny motorized devices to airplanes and rocket ships. Because mechanical engineering is such a broad field, graduates can look forward to diverse employment prospects and strong demand for their skills. A 2012 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers placed mechanical engineering at number five on its list of the top 10 bachelor's degrees for 2013. Mechanical engineers can also specialize in sub-disciplines ranging from biomedical to fluid/thermal sciences to materials. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, new technologies such as alternative energy sources and nanotechnology may drive much of the growth for mechanical engineers in coming years. Additionally, many mechanical engineering careers offer highly competitive salaries, even to bachelor's degree holders. According to a 2011 report from Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce, mechanical engineering majors had a median salary of $80,000, which ranked among the top salaries for all majors.