With the rate of technological advancement we see today, It’s no doubt that engineers are becoming an increasingly important part of our infostructure. If you’re interested in making a difference in the future, an excellent place to start is with the best mechanical engineering bachelor’s degrees.
This article will help you make an informed choice on the best mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree. It covers some of the best schools and programs and will dive into more detail on why a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering program is worth taking. You’ll also learn about mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree jobs, salaries, and career paths.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
Some of the best schools to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering are Arizona Stage University, Tufts University, and Stanford University. These institutions have the best mechanical engineering programs and resources to impart practical knowledge and skills and give you a competitive edge in the industry.
What Schools Offer the Best Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Tufts University
- Stanford University
- Cornell University
- Syracuse University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering typically include a minimum high school education with transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation from previous institutions. You most likely need to complete an online application and pay an admission fee.
Some institutions offering mechanical engineering majors are very competitive. For instance, Stanford University and Yale University have admission rates of less than 10 percent. To be accepted at one of these Ivy League schools, your standardized test scores, high school performance, and recommendations must be at the top tier.
Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- SAT or ACT score
- Official high school transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay (500-600 words)
- Interview
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
You can get a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree by fulfilling all the requirements set by the institution offering the program. Generally, you need to attain the minimum required credits, pay all university fees, achieve a minimum 2.0 GPA across all units (some institutions can have higher), and complete a capstone project or thesis and internship.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
You need a minimum of 180 credits to acquire a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. These credits are distributed between engineering core courses, specialization electives, technical electives, and general courses. Typically, one must take at least a quarter of the required credits within the institution’s residence.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Requirements
- A minimum 2.0 GPA across all courses
- Completion of 150 to 200 credits
- A capstone project, internship, or thesis
- Pay all remaining tuition and fees
Best Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Higher Learning Commission |
| Cornell University | Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Middle States Commission on Higher Education MSCHE New York State Board of Regents, and the Commissioner of Education |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Middle States Commission on Higher Education MSCHE |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities NCCU |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Stanford University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Middle States Commission on Higher Education MSCHE |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges SACSCOC |
| Tufts University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| Yale University | Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Mechanical Engineering | Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
Best Schools for Mechanical Engineering: Top Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best schools for mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree programs are well equipped to provide high-quality instructions for mechanical engineering students. They have top-level professors and excellent training equipment and labs. They are accredited at the institution level and course level. In the next section, we’ll find out more about these institutions and the degree programs.
What Is a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
A mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree offers students a comprehensive understanding of mathematical and scientific principles necessary for the design, development, and operational assessment of physical systems. It is a more advanced degree than a college diploma and an associate degree.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering covers the basic principles of mechanical engineering in depth. On average, it takes three to five years to complete a bachelor’s degree. Meanwhile, a master’s degree is more advanced and can only be attained after earning a bachelor’s.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is important because it prepares students to tackle world problems through the creation of machines. With rapid technological advancement, there is a demand for engineers who can manage machines and innovate better machinery to serve humanity. Without trained mechanical engineers, technology will not go forward.
Meanwhile, the scope of mechanical engineering is so wide that it opens up numerous opportunities for professionals to access dynamic and exciting career paths. With a mechanical engineering degree, you can apply skills in various fields, including biomedical engineering, aerospace engineering, automotive, nanotech, and sustainability.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Mechanical Engineering?
You can get a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Mechanical Engineering. Both a BSC and a BEng are undergraduate programs awarded to students after completing three to five years of studies and completing the credits requirement. An institution determines how to name its undergraduate program based on how it has been customized for learning.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Engineering or a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Engineering over a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. A Bachelor of Science focuses on mechanical engineering theories and principles. It involves experiments and mathematical modeling to provide a comprehensive understanding and initiate innovative thinking.
A Bachelor of Engineering is all about the application of scientific concepts in the creation of machines, techniques, and procedures to solve day-to-day challenges. While a practical approach seems more effective than a theoretical approach, it’s worth noting that one cannot fully apply the knowledge and skills they have not mastered.
What Is the Difference Between a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree and a Mechanical Engineering Certificate?
The difference between a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree and a mechanical engineering certificate starts with the amount of coursework involved. A bachelor’s degree provides students with a greater depth of knowledge. The coursework is comprehensive. In contrast, a certificate teaches students specific practical skills related to their careers.
A bachelor’s degree requires more time commitments to complete. A typical bachelor’s degree will require attainment of 150 to 200 credit hours in four years. Meanwhile, you can complete a certificate degree within a few months to two years, depending on the institution and your dedication.
Lastly, a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering gives you more career growth opportunities as many employers will often ask for a minimum of a degree to hire you. On the other hand, a certificate gives control of the career trajectory to take as you climb the professional ladder and when advancing your education.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
The average cost to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is $28,775 in a four-year program for all institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. A public school will cost less, with tuition and fees at $21,035 per year on average. Private institutions cost more than twice the overall average, at roughly $45,932 per year for a four-year program.
Aside from tuition fees, you’ll need money for living expenses, books and supplies, dormitory fees, and other incidental expenses. You can take advantage of scholarships offered by institutions based on merit or need. You should also consider financial aid solutions if you’re eligible.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to earn a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree in most engineering institutions. That’s enough time for students to master the basic technical knowledge and start working as professional engineers. That typically involves 120 credits covered across eight semesters at 15 credits per semester.
Some institutions allow you to complete your studies in three years at full-time status. That means on average 20 credits per semester. Other programs can go up to as much as five years of study if completed part-time.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is hard because it involves the study of some of the most complex mathematical and scientific principles. You will indulge in technical lessons and lab sessions while studying various topics to master the knowledge necessary to work as a professional engineer.
Nevertheless, this depends primarily on your ability to learn and apply your skills and interests. If you find math and science enjoyable, earning a bachelor’s degree with a mechanical engineering major could be a walk in the park. If you’re passionate about it, you can easily complete the program and graduate.
Why Should You Get a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree because it gives you the skills to build solutions to a wide range of problems and improve the efficiency of machines and products. It offers a critical educational experience that opens doors to a wide variety of job options.
During the program, you will acquire mathematical skills, computer-aided design skills, drafting skills, and scientific thinking. You’ll also learn to work under pressure, think creatively, and develop teamwork and leadership skills.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Mechanical Engineering?
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering courses you will take include machine design, material science, and engineering thermodynamics. You’ll also take classes in fluid mechanics and finite elements analysis. Below we have broken down the specifics of each other these courses.
Machine Design
Machine design is the study and design of machine parts using mathematical and scientific principles. Machine design objectives in mechanical engineering are strength, functionality, and safety. Students will also learn the manufacturing process. As a mechanical designer, you use your skills and knowledge to solve user-product problems regularly.
Material Science
Material science is the study and application of matter. These properties include density, volume, mass, color, length, malleability, hardness, temperature, and melting points. Students learn to apply material science in creating mechanical systems and the implementation of design projects. Material science ensures machines adhere to scientific principles.
Fluid Mechanics
Fluid mechanics is the study of fluid behavior at rest and in motion. Fluid is considered any material that cannot resist shearing force at rest and changes shape when subjected to stress. It includes liquids and gases. Mastery in fluid mechanics enables mechanical engineers to design machines and products that interact with fluids, like a steam engine, a pump, or a turbine.
Engineering Thermodynamics
In mechanical design, an engineer must consider the principles of thermodynamics to enable machines to interact well with energy. Thus, engineering thermodynamics is the study of the relationships between energy, heat, work, and temperature. It plays a critical role in all aspects of engineering.
Finite Element Analysis
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is computer-aided engineering software used to put a designed model under real-world conditions, allowing a design engineer to observe and analyze how the design reacts. FEA could be offered as one of the elective courses in some institutions but is fundamental in the development of machines, especially in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Continuing Education Paths for Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Continuing education paths for mechanical engineering bachelor’s graduates include pursuing graduate studies in graduate school where you can earn a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or in other concentration programs.
For instance, after earning a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, you can pursue a Master’s of Technology in Robotics, Applied Electronics, Aeronautical, or Automotive Engineering. You can also choose to complete a Master of Engineering with specialization during your graduate studies.
Besides pursuing a technical master’s degree you can opt for a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) to acquire valuable knowledge of key industry practices. An MBA imparts professional experience on how to run businesses with a specialization in the mechanical engineering industry.
If you opt to join the workforce instead after graduation, you can register with engineering professional bodies to increase your eligibility in the job market. Such bodies include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers.
Related Mechanical Engineering Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree programs include faculty composition, accreditation, and delivery method. You should also look at the facilities and tuition costs. Every institution is unique in all these aspects, so it depends on what you deem most important when selecting a bachelor’s degree program.
Faculty Composition
One of the most critical predictors of student success is the quality of the teacher. Therefore, it is essential to consider the faculty composition when looking for the best mechanical engineering degree programs. Look for a program with professors who’ve made notable contributions to the mechanical engineering department.
Accreditation
Accreditation happens when a professional body gives official approval to a program, stating that it has attained the minimum required standards. Make sure your chosen academic program is accredited. Accredited programs offer higher-quality education and all-around better student and faculty satisfaction.
Delivery Method
There are numerous delivery methods for a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. The most effective one is in-person or on-campus since it involves face-to-face interactions with the teacher and offers an interactive environment with other students. Other methods include online or hybrid learning. Choose the best delivery method that works for your situation.
Facilities
Not every institution has the same amount and quality in their facilities to offer training in mechanical engineering. You should consider finding out what facilities an institution has to provide for engineering training. If possible, visit the institution’s engineering school and inquire about the available resources, including labs and machinery used in real-world situations.
Tuition and Fees
Lastly, you should consider choosing a degree program from an affordable university. Choose a degree program that falls within your budget by looking at the tuition and fees section before applying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Some more affordable schools will offer the same program as a highly sought-after school, choose what’s best for you.
What Is the Most Affordable Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree is offered by Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. It costs $329/credit hour and totals $40,467 for the full four-year degree. That is more affordable than most mechanical engineering programs offered in the US.
Salary and Job Outlook for Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
After acquiring a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, the next step is to seek employment in the industry. Mechanical engineering principles can be applied in numerous engineering fields and qualify you for some of the best mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree jobs. Below, we cover career prospects, salaries, and job descriptions.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
It is somewhat hard to get a job with a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree. Before hiring, companies requiring mechanical engineers often look for outstanding qualifications and job experience. You will be qualified to start working immediately in entry-level positions but it will take time to build a successful career.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering prepares you adequately for jobs in numerous disciplines. After graduation, you can take advantage of internship opportunities and industry partnerships to build a reputation as an outstanding mechanical engineer. Through hard work and mastery of your skills, you can get recommendations for future job opportunities.
What’s the Average Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree holder is $73,104, according to PayScale. The salaries are significantly higher for specializations such as automotive, aerospace, and biomedical engineering.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree?
The types of jobs you can get with a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree include aerospace engineer, automotive engineer, and biomedical engineer. You may also work as a mechanical engineer or construction engineer. All these jobs apply mechanical engineering principles to solve challenges in different industries.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Jobs
- Aerospace engineer
- Automotive engineer
- Biomedical engineer
- Construction engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Mechanical engineer
Potential Careers With a Mechanical Engineering Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
You can make between $90,000 and $125,000 per year with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. The highest-paying job of a mechanical engineer is an aerospace engineer which makes around $122,270 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A mechanical engineer can enjoy great living standards with a lucrative salary. In the next section, we’ll cover some of the highest-paying jobs.
Highest-Paying Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | $122,270 |
| Biomedical Engineer | $97,410 |
| Automotive Engineer | $95,300 |
| Industrial Engineer | $95,300 |
| Marine Mechanical Engineer | $93,370 |
Best Jobs for Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best-paying jobs for mechanical engineering bachelors degree graduates include aerospace, biomedical, and automotive engineer. Additionally, industrial and marine mechanical engineering are good options as well. In the coming section, we’ll talk about what these professionals do, their salaries, job outlook, and the number of jobs currently in place.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is worth it. As technology advances, mechanical engineers will be responsible for maintaining and improving systems. Mechanical engineering is an indispensable job, which means there will always be a demand for engineers who can use technology to innovate and create better solutions.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering gives the foundational knowledge and skills to develop solutions to mechanical problems. If you apply the knowledge acquired you will stand out in the professional world to earn a lucrative salary. Engineering will always be in-demand, meaning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is worth it.
Additional Reading About Mechanical Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Mechanical engineering is one of the most challenging undergraduate degree programs. It involves sciences, chemistry, physics, and mathematical disciplines. These topics are complex and require intense study and practice to master engineering principles.
Heat and mass transfer is considered one of the toughest subjects in a mechanical engineering major. It involves studying the movement of heat and mass from one point to another. It focuses on analytical and experimental research to increase fundamental understanding of transfer processes and their application to real-world problems in engineering.
Yes, mechanical engineers are in as much demand as the average for all occupations. With a projected job outlook of 7 percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanical engineering job opportunities will continue to increase. Yet this does not necessarily limit the options that can come up considering the rapidly advancing technological growth.
Yes, mechanical engineering is tougher than civil engineering, as the core classes of mechanical engineering degree programs use higher levels of math than civil engineering. Mechanical engineering also features a slightly more detailed and broader curriculum than civil engineering. Nevertheless, the difference in difficulty is not very significant from an overall perspective in both engineering programs.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
