Mechanical Engineering
Design anything with moving parts, from engines to robots
What You'll Study
Mechanical Engineering (ME) is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. It involves the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. If it moves, holds weight, or uses energy/heat, MEs probably designed it.
- Statics and Dynamics (Forces/Motion)
- Thermodynamics
- Fluid Mechanics
- Solid Mechanics / Materials
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
- Manufacturing Processes
- Control Theory
- Heat Transfer
Example Classes
How to Know If You'll Like It
You'll probably enjoy this if...
- ✓You loved playing with Legos or taking things apart as a kid
- ✓You want to know how engines, planes, or factories work
- ✓You enjoy physics (mechanics/forces)
- ✓You are creative and like designing physical objects
- ✓You want the most versatile engineering degree
- ✓You like seeing your designs come to life physically
You might not enjoy this if...
- ✕You struggle with physics mechanics
- ✕You dislike getting your hands dirty (labs/shops)
- ✕You prefer pure desk work (though design is desk work)
- ✕You have no spatial visualization skills
Self-Check Quiz
Answer these questions honestly to see if this major might be a good fit for you.
Do you look at a car and wonder how the engine works?
Career Outcomes
Featured In-Demand Careers
Mechanical Engineer
Design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems from consumer products to industrial machinery.
Aerospace Engineer
Design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles, pushing the boundaries of flight and space exploration.
Product Manager
Lead product development from conception to launch, bridging business strategy with user needs and technical capabilities.
Semiconductor / IC Design Engineer
Design, simulate, and verify integrated circuits (ICs) and microchips used in computers, smartphones, and AI hardware.
Other Common Career Paths
- •Automotive Engineer
- •HVAC Engineer
- •Manufacturing Engineer
- •Product Designer
Industries
Try It First
Test if you like this field before committing to a major:
Design a simple 3D part in Tinkercad or Fusion 360 (free/student versions).
Build a rubber-band powered car or bridge using pasta/glue to test strength.
3D print a mechanism you designed yourself.
Related Majors
Aerospace Engineering
Design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles
Civil Engineering
Design the infrastructure of modern society: bridges, roads, and cities
Industrial Design (Product Design)
Design physical objects that are functional, ergonomic, and beautiful
Robotics / Mechatronics
Build intelligent machines that sense, think, and act
Frequently Asked Questions
No! It includes medical devices, robots, HVAC, satellites, and toys.
No, you design the machines, you don't necessarily repair them daily (though knowing how helps).
It has a learning curve but is very visual and fun for creators.
Professional Engineer license. Critical for signing off on public safety designs (HVAC, cranes).
Labs are. Careers vary from 100% desk design to 100% factory floor.
Ready to Explore This Major?
Get personalized guidance on whether Mechanical Engineering is right for you and how to build a competitive profile.