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Mechanical Engineering (B.S.)

  • Location IconBrookings Main Campus

The mechanics of the real world.

As the broadest field of engineering, mechanical engineering plays an important role in nearly every industry, from aerospace and automotive, to energy and manufacturing, to robotics and biotechnology. Mechanical engineers design devices and systems to efficiently employ the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of society. Mechanical engineering is an applied science profession based on mathematics, physics and chemistry. Proficiency in application of the sciences is gained through a combination of study and practice. Mechanical engineers have a remarkable range of career options from which to choose. Work is found in design and development of a wide range of machines and systems, in manufacturing and automation, in energy and power production and in various related fields of research, management or business.

Number of Students

394

Undergraduate

24

M.S.

11

Ph.D.

B.S. Graduates in 2021-2022

101

(the largest number in the department’s history)

Student/Faculty Ratio

25:1

Scholarships Awarded Annually

45

Scholarships

$84,000

Awarded

Is it for you?

This program will be a good fit if you:

  • Are naturally curious about how things work.
  • Enjoy math and science.
  • Like to tinker and build things.
  • Are a creative problem solver.
  • Want broad career opportunities.

Career Opportunities

  • Mechanical engineer
  • Design engineer
  • Test engineer
  • Manufacturing engineer
  • Product engineer

Recent Employers

  • 3M
  • Bobcat
  • RFA Engineering
  • Boston Scientific
  • Collins Aerospace
  • Daktronics

Internship Opportunities

  • Daktronics
  • TSP, Inc.
  • Poet Biorefinery
  • Honeywell Aerospace
  • Link Mfg.

Suggested Accelerated Programs

Clubs and Organizations

  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
  • Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
  • American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
  • Pi Tau Sigma (Mechanical Engineering Honor Society)
  • SDSU Robotics Club
  • Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)

Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?

If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices. 

In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.