Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering

Explore the broad, versatile field of mechanical engineering through Wayne State University's Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering degree program. Our curriculum takes a multidisciplinary approach to human-centered design and sustainability, preparing you to address vital challenges, communicate across teams and develop highly specified design solutions that benefit people, businesses, communities and environments.

 

Program highlights

• Flexible full- or part-time learning
• Co-op opportunities
• High job placement rate
• Transfer up to 64 credits
• Year-round rolling admissions
• Option to pursue accelerated master's degree (AGRADE)

What will you learn in the mechanical engineering major?

Wayne State University's rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning prepare you to:

• Identify, formulate and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science and mathematics.
• Produce engineering design solutions that meet specified needs with consideration for public health, safety and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors.
• Communicate effectively and explain engineering concepts to different stakeholders.
• Recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations.
• Make informed judgments that consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental and societal contexts.
• Function effectively with a team to provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
• Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
• Acquire and apply new knowledge using appropriate learning strategies.

B.S. in mechanical engineering program curriculum and courses

The 123-credit bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering includes 35 credits from the university core curriculum and 88 credits in the major. 

Lower-division courses include foundational learning in areas like calculus, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics. Upper-division coursework covers fundamental areas such as dynamic systems and controls, thermal fluids, and manufacturing and design. 

In addition, lab sessions and hands-on learning are built into our robust curriculum, giving you the opportunity to work with industry-standard equipment and computer-aided design tools under the guidance of our faculty experts. 

The curriculum culminates with a semester-long,  student-designed capstone project, in which you'll apply what you've learned throughout the program and work with clients to develop a real-world industry solution to an existing problem.  

Review the full program requirements.

Real-world applications

Gain essential firsthand experience through co-ops and internships with leading partners throughout the region, where you'll apply your classroom and lab learning in real-world engineering environments alongside industry professionals. Our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of busy students, with evening courses available to offer you the flexibility to take competitive co-op roles or continue working in your current full-time job while advancing your studies.

Expert faculty

Learn from nationally renowned faculty who are dedicated to your success — both in your academics and in your career. These mentors are also industry leaders who come to the classroom with years of success behind them and invite undergraduates like you to participate in their groundbreaking research in areas including propulsion and energy system, dynamics, acoustics and controls.

High job placement rate

A high percentage of students who earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at Wayne State secure a full-time job within one year of graduation. Our graduates go on to research and development roles as consultants, hardware engineers, research assistants, mechanical engineers, manufacturing engineers and more with such world-renowned companies as General Motors, Ford, Boeing, GE and Motorola – just to name a few. 

Whether you intend to immediately launch your career or pursue graduate studies, our career services resources and thoughtful professor-mentors will help you achieve your goals.

What can you do with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering?

Launch a career in engineering services, manufacturing, and research and development with a mechanical engineering major. Roles in this field are in consistent demand, and salaries are lucrative: the median pay for mechanical engineers is more than $95,000 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

As a mechanical engineer, you'll be prepared to work in scientific research and development, computer and electronic product manufacturing, architectural services, transportation equipment manufacturing, and machinery manufacturing.

Jumpstart your M.S. degree with the AGRADE (4+1) program 

Our Accelerated Graduate Enrollment (AGRADE) program can give you a head start on your master’s degree. If you qualify after completing at least 90 credits of coursework, you can work with your undergraduate and graduate advisors to develop a plan of work from which 16 credits of coursework apply toward both your B.S. and M.S.  at Wayne State. 

The AGRADE program allows you to save money — you can complete the coursework at the lower undergraduate tuition rates — and time, meaning you can graduate with your master’s up to two semesters early.

Tuition and cost

Wayne State University's Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering is one of the most affordable programs of its kind in Michigan. We also offer generous financial aid, including ten mechanical engineering-specific scholarships; dozens of general engineering scholarships; and numerous university-wide scholarships, grants, and loans. 

Our net price calculator can help you estimate your cost of tuition, fees, housing and financial aid benefits.

ABET accreditation

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering progam at Wayne State University is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org/, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical Engineering.

Why Accreditation Matters 

Learn more about Wayne State University's mechanical engineering program outcomes and ABET accreditation.

Admission information

Our year-round rolling admissions have three primary deadlines based on your desired starting semester:

• Fall (Sept.–Dec.): Aug. 1
• Winter (Jan.–Apr.): Dec. 1
• Spring/summer (May–Aug.): April 1

If you intend to transfer from another institution or community college, explore our transfer-friendly guide to course equivalencies, scholarships and getting started at Wayne State University. Students can now transfer unlimited credits as long as they earn a minimum of 30 credits at WSU.

Learn more about admissions.

Apply to Wayne State University's B.S. in mechanical engineering program

With a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering degree from Wayne State University, you can gain the technical competence to stand out as a mechanical engineer. This affordable, student-focused program will set you up for long-term success in both your career and your life.