Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Mechanical Engineering (B.S. in Engineering)

Mechanical engineers are creative and practical. They are highly skilled innovators who solve complex problems for society. When you study mechanical engineering at Western, you will be challenged to develop these professional skills in a hands-on approach to learning that lets you experiment with ideas in 75+ labs. As part of the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, you will focus on the areas of mechanical engineering that best meet your goals, including concentrations in automotive or solid mechanics and structures.

Pride points

98%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences undergraduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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$70K - $80K

median starting salary for recent College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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97%

of College of Engineering and Applied Sciences graduates working full time have a job related to their degree

—2024-25 Career Outcomes Report
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Pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering

If you've ever dreamed of designing a car, building a robot or developing new products, pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering is a good start for achieving that dream. 

Real-world projects and hands-on experiences right in your classroom using the latest technology to elevate your understanding will drive your knowledge. Your time at WMU culminates in a Senior Engineering Design project where you will be part of a team completing a project for industry.

As you work toward your B.S. in Engineering, supportive professors who are recognized world-wide for their expertise and research will help you meet the challenges of this rigorous curriculum. And if you are thinking about graduate school, you can save time and money with our accelerated master's program.

By graduation, you'll possess the mechanical engineering expertise and professional experiences needed to build a career in planning and designing machines, tools, engines and other equipment or systems that produce or use power, directing construction and installation activities, coordinating operations, maintenance and repair activities, or evaluating field installations.

There are so many life-changing opportunities, events and people at Western that might be just one conversation away.
— Luis Jacobo Meija, mechanical engineering student

What you'll learn

Our approach to your success includes a hands-on curriculum that lets you experiment with ideas in 75+ labs. You'll study thermodynamics, materials science, fluid mechanics, heat transfer and more with professors who are committed to your success. And you can choose an area of concentration that best suits your plans: automotive or solid mechanics and structures. 

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Where you'll be after graduation

As a mechanical engineering student, you’ll graduate with the technical knowledge to tackle real‑world challenges helping to design, test and improve mechanical systems and products. You’ll also develop teamwork and communication skills that help you succeed in the workplace. Recent graduates have titles such as mechanical design engineer, coating specialist and building automation specialist in aerospace, automotive, environment, healthcare, manufacturing, robotics and more. They are working at companies such as Parker Hannifin, Stryker, Brinkley, Barton Malow, Crane Engineering and ControlNet.
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Making the most of your learning experience

At WMU, you’ll gain hands-on experience and work with expert faculty. Internships and co-ops will boost the knowledge you build in your coursework. Beyond the classroom, you’ll compete in engineering challenges and connect with industry professionals by joining student organizations such as American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE): Formula and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE): Bronco Baja. Your Senior Engineering Design project will team you up with peers to apply your knowledge to a real industry project.

These experiences will help you stand out as you prepare for a successful career in aerospace engineering.

Learn more about Experience-Driven Learning
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Parker Hannifin lab

Ryan Ahrens in Parker Classroom

What scholarships are available to mechanical engineering students?

WMU wants to make your degree affordable so you to get the most of your education. A number of scholarships are available for students enrolled in the mechanical engineering program that will match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs. 

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Frequently asked questions

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from WMU pursue careers in fields such as mechanical design, automation and engineering graphics. They also design products such as instruments, controls and machines that include mechanical, thermal, hydraulic and heat transfer systems. Graduates have job titles such as mechanical design engineer, coating specialist and building automation specialist.

Yes, in the mechanical engineering program you will learn through hands-on opportunities.

  • Professors incorporate hands-on learning into your coursework, including projects in academic labs.
  • WMU’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has more than 25 student organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, SAE International, Engineers Without Borders and Tau Beta Pi. These organizations allow you to compete and network with peers at other institutions while extending your learning.
  • Many students also complete internships or co-ops during their time in the program.
  • All students complete a Senior Engineering Design capstone project, where you work as a team to address real-world projects.

Yes, there are a number of scholarships available for students enrolled in the mechanical engineering program at Western. You may also be eligible for additional scholarships from WMU. We encourage you to apply for all scholarships that match your interests, career goals and financial or academic needs. 

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As an engineering and applied sciences student, you should enjoy solving problems using math and science and meet Western's general admissions requirements. Once you successfully complete pre-engineering requirements, you’ll apply to the upper-level professional program where you’ll dive deeper into your specific major.

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Yes, we welcome students who are interested in transferring to WMU from a community college or other college or university. View transfer information and set-up an appointment to meet with an advisor.

Yes, we offer an accelerated degree program that allows you to complete a master’s degree in mechanical engineering in just one additional year. Weave graduate courses (up to 12 credits at the undergraduate tuition rate!) into your WMU undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, and earn both your bachelor's and master's degrees. Learn more about accelerated master’s degrees at WMU and view the requirements for the accelerated master’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Yes! Many students in the aerospace engineering program participate in internships or co-ops during their time at WMU. They are great ways to gain experience. Internships are paid positions in your field. Co-ops are also paid positions and also offer an opportunity to earn credits toward your degree.

As a WMU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences student, you'll also have access to many career development opportunities to be ready to land an internship or co-op.

Your professors and academic advisor can provide more information.

Western gives you options for receiving academic support in mechanical engineering. Check with your professors or instructors during office hours to ask questions about your courses or find tutoring via the Bronco Study Zone. 

Aerospace engineering and mechanical engineering are closely related majors. Mechanical is a broad engineering program that can lead to careers in automotive, robotics, manufacturing, medical devices and consumer products. The aerospace engineering major is a specialized area that typically leads to careers in commercial aircraft, military aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, rocket systems or flight testing.

As a pre-engineering student, you'll spend time exploring many areas of study. Your academic advisor and professors will help your find your ideal path.