About this Program
The Mechanical Engineering program integrates topics from chemistry, physics, advanced mathematics and statistics, and core engineering science to prepare you to work professionally in both thermal and mechanical systems; from design, development, manufacture, and use of products involving mechanical and thermal elements.
This program may be a good fit for you if you are a creative thinker, enjoy problem solving, work well in teams, and enjoy math and science.
Within Mechanical Engineering, you will choose to complete one of two subplans: General Mechanical Engineering will engage you with coursework that can be applied across a wide range of industry sectors, engineered products, and services. Maritime Engineering offers an in-depth dive into engineering courses focusing on different aspects of science and technology pertaining to aquatic environments.
The mission of the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program is to deliver a laboratory-intensive, undergraduate mechanical engineering education that provides you with the tools and skills to excel in the engineering profession, as you pursue lifelong learning and make positive contributions to society. Your learning experience offers unique opportunities for study abroad, undergraduate research, and electives outside of mechanical engineering to develop an enhanced global perspective.
Acquired Skills
- Solve mechanical engineering problems by applying contemporary engineering tools to propose and implement effective solutions.
- Design, develop, implement, and improve thermal and mechanical systems.
- Contribute as informed, ethical, and responsible members of the engineering profession and society as a whole.
- Continue lifelong professional development throughout their career.
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with others as a member or leader of an engineering or multidisciplinary team in an international setting.
Career Possibilities
Mechanical & Industrial Engineering graduates are qualified for employment in a wide variety of organizations, both public and private. For example, recent graduates have taken positions with the following: Apple, Altec, Amsoil, Boston Scientific, Cirrus, Honeywell, Northern Tool, St. Jude Medical, Target Corp., Tundra Innovations and the United States Air Force.
Admissions and Scholarships
Every year, the Mechanical & Industrial Engineering Department awards several scholarships. Number and amount of each award varies based on the availability of funds.
Student Clubs
We have a several student clubs on campus that our students are apart of. The Bulldog Rocketry club gives students a chance to explore the designing, manufacturing, and testing of high powered rockets in order to partake in the annual Space Grant Midwest High-Power Rocket Competition held by MnSGC & NASA.
The Clean Snowmobile Challenge team obtains a new production snowmobile every couple years and redesigns many features in order to make the snowmobile faster, lighter, more reliable, and more efficient. The Formula Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is a diverse array of highly motivated students led by the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering department at UMD. The groups goal is to design, construct, and test a Formula 1 style racecar in order to compete in the annual nationwide Formula SAE competition.
Our Department is also home to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Diesel Engineering club, the Minnesota Society of Professional Engineers (MNSPE), the Order of the Engineer, the Society of Women Engineers, and the Tau Beta Pi.