Connecticut College students have several options for pursuing the study of engineering while also earning a traditional liberal arts degree. Through the following programs, students have the opportunity to develop the critical problem-solving and technical experience needed to enter a wide range of engineering fields. Many students also complete our standard major in physics, often supplemented with additional course(s) in engineering from one of our partner institutions, before attending graduate school in engineering.

Connecticut College students have gone on to attend top engineering graduate programs, including Princeton, Brown, Duke and Stanford, and are currently working as civil engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, nuclear engineers, optical metrology engineers, software engineers, engineering physicists and more.

Environmental Engineering Dual Degree Program

We offer an innovative five-year program, in partnership with Worcester Polytechnic Institute, that provides specialized training for students interested in environmental engineering. Science courses in chemistry, geosciences, physics and biology at Connecticut College are combined with engineering and design courses at WPI to provide students with the skills they need to enter the vital field of environmental engineering. Students participating in the program will complete three years of study at Connecticut College and one year of study away coursework at WPI during the junior year to earn a bachelor of arts degree in environmental engineering studies from Connecticut College. Students may then transfer to WPI for one additional year of study to pursue a bachelor of science in environmental engineering.

Learn more. 

U.S. Coast Guard Academy Single Course Exchange Program

Connecticut College students enrolled fulltime in an undergraduate degree-seeking program and in residence on the Connecticut College campus may, with appropriate approval, enroll in one course per semester at the United States Coast Guard Academy, which is adjacent to the Connecticut College campus. Enrollment in the single course exchange program is subject to enrollment policies, including instructor permission, course restrictions and space availability. 

USCGA Single Course Exchange Program.

Washington University in St. Louis Dual Degree Program

Connecticut College is part of a select group of colleges affiliated with Washington University in St. Louis's Dual Degree Engineering Program, which offers students the opportunity to earn a bachelor of arts degree from the College and a bachelor of science in biomedical, computer, electrical, chemical or mechanical engineering from Washington University. The program requires three years of study at Connecticut College followed by two years of study at Washington University, or four years of study at Connecticut College followed by two years of study at Washington University. 

Dual Degree Program graduates are "liberally educated engineers" with strong communication and problem-solving skills, a broad background in the humanities and social sciences, and a high-quality technical education. To learn more, visit engineering.wustl.edu/dualdegree.

Other Opportunities

In addition to the programs above, students majoring in physics have the opportunity to study abroad or away at an engineering institution, take courses through Trinity College's engineering department, and complete funded internships in the field of engineering. Students can also apply for Washington University in St. Louis's January Intensive Term, an 11-day intensive introduction to engineering courses for current liberal arts students who want to test their interests in engineering. Columbia University also offers a Combined Plan Program (with a highly competitive admission process) for liberal arts students interested in a dual bachelor of arts and bachelor of science in an engineering discipline. 

The concept of whole-brain engineering™ runs through all of McCormick’s bachelor’s degree and other specialized programs. Each program delivers a balanced education through coursework, research, internships, and extra-curricular activities. You can even design your own program within engineering, or combine an engineering degree with a second major at Northwestern.

At McCormick, our goal always is to help you articulate and pursue your individual goals and develop into a well-rounded engineer capable of achieving your full potential.

Ready to begin?

Request More Information
Apply to McCormick

Have you already been accepted to McCormick?

Welcome New Students

Entrepreneurship is strongly encouraged in all areas at Northwestern. The Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides course offerings, funding, and guidance to students looking to nurture and develop their innovative ideas.

Leadership

With resources such as the Center for Leadership, McCormick students gain the skills and ability to rally support around an objective, manage team dynamics, and maximize collaboration.

Return to Top

Learn about our academic departments

Learn about our student groups

Return to Top

As an undergraduate, you’ll collaborate with students from a range of disciplines and schools through opportunities such as our innovative Engineering First® curriculum for first-year students, NUvention courses, coursework and projects at the Segal Design Institute, and more.

Return to Top

From the very start of your freshman year at McCormick, you’ll experience firsthand what it feels like to be a practicing engineer. In our groundbreaking Engineering First® program, you’ll work with real clients through the Design Thinking & Communication (DTC) courses, solve problems, deliver tangible results, and make a positive impact on another person’s life—all within your first year.

In addition, our Social Science / Humanities Theme Requirement ensures you become a well-rounded engineer by developing an area of competency in the humanities. You choose your theme’s focus based on your own interests.

Learn more about our core curriculum

Return to Top

The McCormick Advising System provides guidance to first-year engineering students and serves as a continual resource through their years of study. Departmental faculty advisers continue to support upperclass students in their respective fields and majors.

Personal Development

The Personal Development StudioLab is just one of several resources that empowers students to take ownership of their learning and connect their personal goals with available courses and activities.

Career Development

With opportunities such as the Cooperative Engineering Education Program (Co-op) that gives students hands-on work experience, Engineering Career Development (ECD) provides programs and services that offer career advice and integrated learning.

Learn more about personal and career development at McCormick

Return to Top

Meet our world-class faculty

Return to Top

Learn about research opportunities for undergraduates

Return to Top

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

General Education - Mathematical Perspective A: Project-Based Calculus I

This is the first in a two-course sequence intended for students majoring in mathematics, science, or engineering. It emphasizes the understanding of concepts, and using them to solve physical problems. The course covers functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, rules of differentiation, applications of the derivative, Riemann sums, definite integrals, and indefinite integrals. (Prerequisite: A- or better in MATH-111 or A- or better in ((NMTH-260 or NMTH-272 or NMTH-275) and NMTH-220) or a math placement test score greater than or equal to 70 or department permission to enroll in this class.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

General Education - Mathematical Perspective B: Project-Based Calculus II

This is the second in a two-course sequence intended for students majoring in mathematics, science, or engineering. It emphasizes the understanding of concepts, and using them to solve physical problems. The course covers techniques of integration including integration by parts, partial fractions, improper integrals, applications of integration, representing functions by infinite series, convergence and divergence of series, parametric curves, and polar coordinates. (Prerequisites: C- or better in (MATH-181 or MATH-173 or 1016-282) or (MATH-171 and MATH-180) or equivalent course(s).) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Engineering Mechanics Laboratory

This course examines classical Newtonian mechanics from a calculus-based fundamental perspective with close coupling to integrated laboratory experiences. Topics include kinematics; Newton's laws of motion; work-energy theorem, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; mechanical waves, and oscillations and gravitation within the context of mechanical engineering, using mechanical engineering conventions and nomenclature. Each Topic is reviewed in lecture, and then thoroughly studied in an accompanying laboratory session. Students conduct experiments using modern data acquisition technology; and analyze, interpret, and present the results using modern computer software. (Prerequisite: This class is restricted to MECE-BS or ENGRX-UND or MECEDU-BS students. Co-requisites: MATH-171 or MATH-181 or MATH-181A or MATH-172 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).

Statics

This basic course treats the equilibrium of particles and rigid bodies under the action of forces. It integrates the mathematical subjects of calculus, vector algebra and simultaneous algebraic equations with the physical concepts of equilibrium in two and three dimensions. Topics include concepts of force and moment, friction, centroids and moments of inertia, and equilibrium of trusses, frames and machines. (Prerequisites: MECE-102 or PHYS-211 or PHYS-211A or PHYS-206 or equivalent course and restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN or ENGRX-UND students. Co-requisites: MATH-182 or MATH-182A or MATH-173 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Engineering Design Tools

This course combines the elements of Design process, Computer Aided Design (CAD), and Machine Shop Fabrication in the context of a design/build/test project. You will learn how to work in a team and use a formalized design process to justify and support design choices, how to use a CAD package to create three-dimensional models and assemblies, and how to safely fabricate metal parts using vertical mills and lathes. (This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECE-MN or ENGRX-UND or MECEDU-BS Major students.) Lab 1 (Fall, Spring).

Introduction to Programming for Engineers

This course provides the student with an overview of the use of computer programming for solving problems encountered in engineering. Students will learn how to develop an algorithm for solving a problem and to translate that algorithm into computer code using fundamental structured programming techniques. The programming language(s) employed are selected to support computational problem-solving in higher-level mechanical engineering courses. (This course is restricted to students in MECE-BS or ENGRX-UND or MECEDU-BS. Co-requisite: MATH-181 or MATH-181A or MATH-172 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall, Spring).

RIT 365: RIT Connections

RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring).

General Education - First Year Writing (WI)

General Education - Ethical Perspective

General Education - Artistic Perspective

General Education - Elective

Engineering Co-op Preparation

This course will prepare students, who are entering their second year of study, for both the job search and employment in the field of engineering. Students will learn strategies for conducting a successful job search, including the preparation of resumes and cover letters; behavioral interviewing techniques and effective use of social media in the application process. Professional and ethical responsibilities during the job search and for co-op and subsequent professional experiences will be discussed. (This course is restricted to students in Kate Gleason College of Engineering with at least 2nd year standing.) Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring).

Multivariable Calculus

This course is principally a study of the calculus of functions of two or more variables, but also includes the study of vectors, vector-valued functions and their derivatives. The course covers limits, partial derivatives, multiple integrals, and includes applications in physics. Credit cannot be granted for both this course and MATH-221. (Prerequisite: C- or better MATH-173 or MATH-182 or MATH-182A or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Differential Equations

This course is an introduction to the study of ordinary differential equations and their applications. Topics include solutions to first order equations and linear second order equations, method of undetermined coefficients, variation of parameters, linear independence and the Wronskian, vibrating systems, and Laplace transforms. (Prerequisite: MATH-173 or MATH-182 or MATH-182A or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Thermodynamics I

A basic course introducing the classical theory of thermodynamics. Applications of the first law of thermodynamics are used to introduce the student to thermodynamic processes for closed and open systems. The Clausius and Kelvin-Planck statements of the second law are then correlated with the concept of entropy and enthalpy to investigate both real and reversible processes and the thermodynamic properties of pure substances. These techniques are then used to evaluate thermodynamic cycles for a variety of applications in power generation and refrigeration. Students are then introduced to techniques to Excellerate thermal efficiency of these cycles such as reheat, regeneration, and co-generation. (Prerequisites: MECE-102 or PHYS-211 or PHYS-211A or PHYS-206 or equivalent course. Co-requisites: MATH-182 or or MATH-182A or MATH-173 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN or ENGRX-UND students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Strength of Materials I

A basic course in the fundamental principles of the mechanics of deformable media, including stress, strain, deflections and the relationships among them. The basic loadings of tension, compression, shear, torsion and bending are also included. (Prerequisites: MECE-103 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Strength of Materials I Laboratory

A required laboratory course taken concurrently with MECE-203. Students investigate a metallic material’s response to axial, torsional, and bending loads. Students are introduced to reduction and analysis of data, basic experimental techniques, and effective report writing. (This course is restricted to students in MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN or ENGRX-UND students. Co-requisites: MECE-203) Lab 2 (Fall, Spring).

Dynamics

A basic course in the kinematics and kinetics of particles and rigid bodies. Newton's Laws and the theorems of work-energy and impulse momentum are applied to a variety of particle problems. Systems of particles are employed to transition to the analysis of rigid body problems. Absolute and relative motion are used to investigate the kinematics and kinetics of systems of rigid bodies. Newton's Laws are applied to a variety of two-dimensional rigid body problems. (Prerequisites: MECE-103 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Fluid Mechanics I

This course investigates the physical characteristics of a fluid: density, stress, pressure, viscosity, temperature, vapor pressure, compressibility. Descriptions of flows include Lagrangian and Eulerian; stream-lines, path-lines and streak-lines. Classification of flows include fluid statics, hydrostatic pressure at a point, pressure field in a static fluid, manometry, forces on submerged surfaces, buoyancy, standard and adiabatic atmospheres. Flow fields and fundamental laws are investigated including systems and control volumes, Reynolds Transport theorem, integral control volume analysis of basic equations for stationary and moving control volumes. Inviscid Bernoulli and the Engineering Bernoulli equation are utilized when analyzing fluid systems. Other concepts studied include incompressible flow in pipes; laminar and turbulent flows, separation phenomenon, dimensional analysis. (Prerequisites: MECE-110 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Engineering Measurements Lab (WI-PR)

This course is focused on developing skills and knowledge in the areas of instrumentation, computer data acquisition (DAQ), measurement theory, uncertainty analysis, data analysis, and technical report writing. Specific Topics that are covered include: • Physical dimension variability assessment • Centrifugal pump performance evaluation • Temperature, pressure, and flow instrumentation and measurements • LabVIEW programming and DAQ hardware application • Transient measurements including computer data acquisition • Digital signal input and output Each Topic includes background theoretical content with some individual exercises and then a team-based lab with accompanying lab report. Reports are submitted first in draft form and are reviewed by peers in class before preparing them for final draft submission (Prerequisites: MECE-102 or PHYS-211 or PHYS-211A or PHYS-206 or equivalent course and restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall, Spring).

General Education - Global Perspective

General Education - Social Perspective

General Education - Scientific Principles Perspective

General Education - Immersion 1

Circuits I

Covers basics of DC circuit analysis starting with the definition of voltage, current, resistance, power and energy. Linearity and superposition, together with Kirchhoff's laws, are applied to analysis of circuits having series, parallel and other combinations of circuit elements. Thevenin, Norton and maximum power transfer theorems are proved and applied. Circuits with ideal op-amps are introduced. Inductance and capacitance are introduced and the transient response of RL, RC and RLC circuits to step inputs is established. Practical aspects of the properties of passive devices and batteries are discussed, as are the characteristics of battery-powered circuitry. The laboratory component incorporates use of both computer and manually controlled instrumentation including power supplies, signal generators and oscilloscopes to reinforce concepts discussed in class as well as circuit design and simulation software. (Prerequisite: MATH-173 or MATH-182 or MATH-182A or equivalent course.) Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Materials Science with Applications

This course provides the student with an overview of structure, properties, and processing of metals, polymers, and ceramics. Relevant basic manufacturing processes and materials selection is also discussed. There is a particular emphasis on steels, but significant attention is given to non-ferrous metals, ceramics, and polymers (Prerequisite: MECE-203 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to students in MECE-BS, MECEDU-BS, MECE-MN or ENGRX-UND programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Materials Science with Applications Laboratory

A required laboratory course taken concurrently with MECE-304 Fundamentals of Materials Science or MECE-305 Materials Science with Applications. Students investigate the effects of the structure, alloying, and processing of materials on their mechanical properties. Students are also introduced to standardized testing methods and effective, professional, report writing. (This course is restricted to students in MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN or ISEE-BS or ISEEDU-BS or ENGRX-UND students.) Lab 2 (Fall, Spring).

System Dynamics

This required course introduces the student to lumped parameter system modeling, analysis and design. The determination and solution of differential equations that model system behavior is a vital aspect of the course. System response phenomena are characterized in both time and frequency domains and evaluated based on performance criteria. Laboratory exercises enhance student proficiency with model simulation, basic instrumentation, data acquisition, data analysis, and model validation. (Prerequisites: MECE-205 and MATH-231 or equivalent courses. Co-requisites: EEEE-281 This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall, Spring).

Boundary Value Problems

This course provides an introduction to boundary value problems. Topics include Fourier series, separation of variables, Laplace's equation, the heat equation, and the wave equation in Cartesian and polar coordinate systems. (Prerequisites: (MATH-231 or MATH-233) and (MATH-219 or MATH-221) or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Cooperative Education (fall, summer)

Nominally three months of full-time, paid employment in the mechanical engineering field. (Prerequisites: (MECE-110 and MECE-203 and MECE-211 and EGEN-099) or MECE-499. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer).

General Education - Natural Science Inquiry Perspective: University Physics II

This course is a continuation of PHYS-211, University Physics I. Topics include electrostatics, Gauss' law, electric field and potential, capacitance, resistance, DC circuits, magnetic field, Ampere's law, inductance, and geometrical and physical optics. The course is taught in a lecture/workshop format that integrates the material traditionally found in separate lecture and laboratory courses. (Prerequisites: (PHYS-211 or PHYS-211A or PHYS-206 or PHYS-216) or (MECE-102, MECE-103 and MECE-205) and (MATH-182 or MATH-172 or MATH-182A) or equivalent courses. Grades of C- or better are required in all prerequisite courses.) Lec/Lab 6 (Fall, Spring).

Linear Algebra

This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of linear algebra, and techniques of matrix manipulation. Topics include linear transformations, Gaussian elimination, matrix arithmetic, determinants, vector spaces, linear independence, basis, null space, row space, and column space of a matrix, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, change of basis, similarity and diagonalization. Various applications are studied throughout the course. (Prerequisites: MATH-190 or MATH-200 or MATH-219 or MATH-220 or MATH-221 or MATH-221H or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Engineering Applications Laboratory

As a modification of the more “traditional” lab approach, students work in teams to complete an open-ended project involving theoretical and empirical analyses of an assigned system, applying engineering concepts and skills learned throughout prior courses. After successfully completing this course, students will have achieved a higher level of understanding of, and proficiency in, the tasks of qualitative treatment of real systems, development and implementation of analytical models, design and implementation of experimental investigations, and validation of results. (Prerequisites: (MECE-102 or PHYS-211 or PHYS-211A or PHYS-206) and MECE-104 and MECE-211 or equivalent courses and is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students. Co-requisites: MECE-210 or equivalent course.) Lab 2 (Fall, Spring).

Heat Transfer I

A first course in the fundamentals of heat transfer by conduction, convection and radiation, together with applications to typical engineering systems. Topics include one- and two-dimensional steady state and transient heat conduction, radiation exchange between black and gray surfaces, correlation equations for laminar/turbulent internal and external convection, and an introduction to heat exchangers analysis and design by LMTD and NTU methods. (Prerequisites: MECE-210 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS or MECE-MN students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Contemporary Issues

This course introduces students to contemporary technologies in a specific field of mechanical engineering. In the process of exploring these technologies, the course teaches and applies skills related to communication, economic analysis, ethical analysis, and explores the positive and negative effects of technologies on our society and environment. Specific attention is focused on current events both domestically and internationally. (Prerequisite or Co-requisites: MECE-499 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Cooperative Education (summer)

Nominally three months of full-time, paid employment in the mechanical engineering field. (Prerequisites: (MECE-110 and MECE-203 and MECE-211 and EGEN-099) or MECE-499. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer).

Graduate Policy Analysis

This course provides graduate students with necessary tools to help them become effective policy analysts. The course places particular emphasis on understanding the policy process, the different approaches to policy analysis, and the application of quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluating public policies. Students will apply these tools to contemporary public policy decision making at the local, state, federal, and international levels. Lecture 3 (Fall).

Graduate Decision Analysis

This course provides students with an introduction to decision science and analysis. The course focuses on several important tools for making good decisions, including decision trees, including forecasting, risk analysis, and multi-attribute decision making. Students will apply these tools to contemporary public policy decision making at the local, state, federal, and international levels. Lecture 3 (Spring).

Applied Statistics

This course covers basic statistical concepts and techniques including descriptive statistics, probability, inference, and quality control. The statistical package Minitab will be used to reinforce these techniques. The focus of this course is on statistical applications and quality improvement in engineering. This course is intended for engineering programs and has a calculus prerequisite. Note: This course may not be taken for credit if credit is to be earned in STAT-145 or STAT-155 or MATH 252.. (Prerequisite: MATH-173 or MATH-182 or MATH-182A or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

Graduate Science and Technology Policy Seminar

Examines how federal and international policies are developed to influence research and development, innovation, and the transfer of technology in the United States and other selected nations. Students in the course will apply basic policy skills, concepts, and methods to contemporary science and technology policy topics. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Seminar (Fall).

ME Extended Core Elective

General Education - ME Approved Science Elective

General Education - Immersion 2

Open Elective

Multidisciplinary Sr. Design I

This is the first in a two-course sequence oriented to the solution of real-world engineering design problems. This is a capstone learning experience that integrates engineering theory, principles, and processes within a collaborative environment. Multidisciplinary student teams follow a systems engineering design process, which includes assessing customer needs, developing engineering specifications, generating and evaluating concepts, choosing an approach, developing the details of the design, and implementing the design to the extent feasible, for example by building and testing a prototype or implementing a chosen set of improvements to a process. This first course focuses primarily on defining the problem and developing the design, but may include elements of build/ implementation. The second course may include elements of design, but focuses on build/implementation and communicating information about the final design. (Prerequisites: MECE-301 and MECE-499 or equivalent courses. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring).

Multidisciplinary Sr. Design II

This is the second in a two-course sequence oriented to the solution of real-world engineering design problems. This is a capstone learning experience that integrates engineering theory, principles, and processes within a collaborative environment. Multidisciplinary student teams follow a systems engineering design process, which includes assessing customer needs, developing engineering specifications, generating and evaluating concepts, choosing an approach, developing the details of the design, and implementing the design to the extent feasible, for example by building and testing a prototype or implementing a chosen set of improvements to a process. The first course focuses primarily on defining the problem and developing the design, but may include elements of build/ implementation. This second course may include elements of design, but focuses on build/implementation and communicating information about the final design. (Prerequisites: MECE-497 or equivalent course. This course is restricted to MECE-BS or MECEDU-BS students.) Lecture 6 (Fall, Spring).

Readings in Public Policy

An in-depth inquiry into key contemporary public policy issues. Students will be exposed to a wide range of important public policy texts, and will learn how to write a literature review in a policy area of their choosing. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Seminar (Fall).

Evaluation and Research Design

The focus of this course is on evaluation of program outcomes and research design. Students will explore the questions and methodologies associated with meeting programmatic outcomes, secondary or unanticipated effects, and an analysis of alternative means for achieving program outcomes. Critique of evaluation research methodologies will also be considered. Seminar (Spring).

Open Elective

Applied Elective/Public Policy Electives

Open Elective/Public Policy Elective

General Education - Immersion 3

6

    Capstone Research Experience

The Public Policy Capstone Experience serves as a culminating experience for those MS in Science, Technology and Public Policy students who chose this option in the Public Policy Department. Over the course of the semester, students will have the opportunity to investigate and address contemporary Topics in science and technology policy using analytic skills and theoretical knowledge learned over the course of their MS degree. Project 1 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

    Public Policy Thesis

The master's thesis in science, technology, and public policy requires the student to select a thesis topic, advisor and committee; prepare a written thesis proposal for approval by the faculty; present and defend the thesis before a thesis committee; and submit a bound copy of the thesis to the library and to the program chair. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Thesis 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer).

   Comprehensive test plus 2 Graduate Electives

150

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

You have an interest in changing the world. To get there, you need strong leadership characteristics, ingenuity, adaptability, and technical proficiency. Purdue Engineering is here to help! We are dedicated to helping you attain the skills and attributes needed to succeed in this rapidly-changing global economy.

A World-Class Engineering Institution

U.S. News & World Report and corporate recruiters consistently rank Purdue Engineering near the top of their lists as one of the best engineering schools in the country for both academics and career preparation. Purdue's engineers stand at the forefront of industry, education, and discovery, with a goal of impacting the world and those who live in it.

Students receive a top-quality experience, at the best value, with some of the industry's most competitive starting salaries.

The Boilermaker Family

As a Purdue Engineer you would be joining a broader family with over 100,000 living Purdue Engineering alumni around the globe who are happy to help other Boilermakers. Some of our notable alumni include:

• Neil Armstrong (the first astronaut on the Moon)
• Eugene Cernan (the most exact astronaut on the Moon)
• Roger Chaffee and Gus Grissom (Apollo pioneers)
• Amy Ross (spacesuit engineer)
• Charles Ellis (designer of the Golden Gate Bridge)
• Michael Ramage (petrochemical innovator)
• John Atalla (father of the "PIN")
• Lillian Gilbreth (the first lady of engineering)
• Reginald Fessenden (father of radio broadcasting)

Being a member of the Boilermaker family is part of our collaborative culture and begins the day you step onto campus as a student, although we hope you notice it when you visit, too. Faculty, staff, and students are all dedicated to helping each other succeed.

Accessible Faculty

Faculty lead over 80% of Purdue Engineering classes which means that you can study alongside professors who are happy to share their rich experience and expertise. Faculty want to meet students and hold regular office hours dedicated to the students from their classes.

A Collaborative Culture

Teamwork is a culture, not an expectation. Top students from around the world come to Purdue and you'll have the opportunity to collaborate in a variety of ways throughout your undergraduate degree.

A Diverse, Global Community

You would become a part of a student body that reflects our diverse world. To help provide leadership in the area, the Women in Engineering Program (WiE) and the Minority Engineering Program (MEP) are resources available to all engineering students. Purdue is home to students from over 120 countries and all 50 states are represented in the College of Engineering! Come and meet the world right here in West Lafayette, Indiana!

Campus Involvement

Purdue Engineering students are very involved across campus, so you'll be able to find other students with similar interests. With over 1,000 student organizations, sports teams and events (Big 10, club, intramural), the Purdue Musical Organization, and several ensembles through Purdue Bands & Orchestras, there is something for everyone! These opportunities will connect you with others students, expand your knowledge, and prepare you for success.

Turn Interests Into Impact

Where would you like to apply your interests and make a difference in the world? Engineers, educated with the fundamental and necessary math and science, are essential to solving the Grand Challenges our world is facing today. While all majors of Engineering are critical to making a difference; Purdue's First-Year Engineering Program gives you the time and resources to identify which major is the best fit for your career goals. Start your journey as an engineering student with our road map for success.

Breadth of Majors

Choose from 17 engineering majors and several unique minors. You also have the option to customize your own major through our Interdisciplinary Engineering Studies and Multidisciplinary Engineering programs.

Innovative, Hands-On Learning

You will be surrounded with a rich history mixed with modern technologies. There are over 30 buildings that are dedicated to or have dedicated space for engineering. These state-of-the-art facilities include the Neil Armstrong Hall of Engineering, which serves as our flagship facility with the first 360° learning environment on campus, and the Bechtel Innovation Design Center, providing students access to modern technology and innovative space for student-directed project development.

Expand Your Horizons

Extend your education beyond the classroom by taking part in one of the many experiential opportunities open to undergraduate students, such as research or EPICS service-learning projects. You can also prepare for the global economy by taking advantage of amazing global workplace or study abroad opportunities at distinguished universities all around the world through the Global Engineering Programs & Partnerships office.

Industry Partnerships & Experience

Students who graduated with a bachelor's degree from Purdue Engineering in 2021 saw a 97% placement rate within 6 months of graduating and an average starting salary over just over $72,000. To assist you in developing your resume and open doors of opportunity at graduation, students are strongly encouraged to get work experience.

These opportunities begin as early as the summer after the first-year and include internships, co-ops, and other innovative options for gaining work experience while taking classes at Purdue. All students are encouraged to attend one of the many career fairs on campus, including our largest student-run job fair, Industrial Roundtable, offered on campus each year. With over 1,000 unique employers visiting Purdue every year to recruit, there is ample opportunity for you to gain work experience. Well over 80% of our students report having had at least one internship or co-op experience prior to graduation.

Still interested? Connect with us!

If you would like to learn more about Purdue Engineering, the first place to start is with us in the Office of Future Engineers (OFE). The OFE Staff and the Peer Counselors are here to answer any and all of your questions relating to Purdue Engineering - from academics to student life and beyond. Feel free to contact us anytime and check out all the visit opportunities to see Purdue Engineering for yourself!

Mechanical engineers make an impact in almost every aspect of modern society due to the vital roles they play in the design and production of material goods.

As a graduate, you leave Clarkson with the ability to apply principles of engineering, science, and mathematics (including multivariate calculus and differential equations) to model, analyze, design and realize physical systems. Clarkson prepares you for a successful career in industry as an engineer or manager.

Click here for a trial curriculum schedule

Common First-Year Curricula

All students majoring in a program offered by the School of Engineering (excluding engineering & management majors) take courses that are part of a common curricula during the first year. Therefore, students may defer the selection of a major field of study until the sophomore year. Beginning with the junior year, a significant amount of specialized material is incorporated into each curriculum. In the senior year, coursework is concentrated in the student’s chosen field. Courses in humanities and social sciences are taken throughout the 4-year program as part of the Clarkson Common Experience.

During the first year, students majoring in a program offered by the School of Engineering (excluding engineering & management majors) must complete the following courses:

• CM131 General Chemistry I (4 credits)
• ES100 Introduction to Engineering Use of the Computer (2 credits)
• ES110 Engineering & Society (3 credits)
• MA131 Calculus I (3 credits)
• MA132 Calculus II (3 credits)
• PH131 Physics I (4 credits)
• PH132 Physics II

Core Requirements

Students majoring in mechanical engineering are required to complete the following courses:

• ES220 Statics (3 credits)
• ES222 Strength of Materials (3 credits)
• ES223 Rigid Body Dynamics (3 credits)
• ES250 Electrical Science (3 credits)
• ES260 Materials Science & Engineering I (3 credits)
• ES330 Fluid Mechanics (3 credits)
• ES340 Thermodynamics (3 credits)
• MA231 Calculus III (3 credits)
• MA232 Elementary Differential Equations (3 credits)
• MA330 Advanced Engineering Mathematics (3 credits)
• ME201 Introduction to Experimental Methods in Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering (1 credits)
• ME212 Introduction to Engineering Design (3 credits)
• ME301 Experimental Methods in Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering (1credits)
• ME310 Thermodynamic System Engineering (or ME455 Vibrations & Control) (3 credits)
• ME324 Dynamical Systems (3 credits)
• ME326 Intermediate Fluid Mechanics (3 credits)
• ME341 Mechanics of Machine Elements (3 credits)
• ME401 Advanced Experimental Methods in Mechanical & Aeronautical Engineering (1 credits)
• ME411 Introduction to Heat Transfer (3credits)
• ME442 Engineering Analysis Using the Finite Element Method (3 credits)
• ME445 Integrated Design I (3 credits)
• ME446 Integrated Design II (3 credits)
• ME455 Mechanical Vibrations & Control (or ME310 Thermodynamic System Engineering) (3 credits)

Core Electives

The following are electives students are required to complete for the mechanical engineering major. Students must select a 3-credit engineering elective in mechanical engineering, aeronautical engineering or engineering science. Typical courses include ME444 Computer-Aided Engineering (CAD), ME443 Optimal Engineering, ES380 Biomechanics, ME390 Additive Manufacturing or ME429 Welding and Metallurgy.

Professional Electives

This requirement can be satisfied with upper-division courses in mathematics, physics, other engineering disciplines and mechanical engineering (e.g., STAT383 Applied Statistics, MA339 Fourier Series and Boundary-Value Problems).

Knowledge Area/University Course Electives

Students majoring in mechanical engineering are required to take at least 15 credit hours to satisfy the Knowledge Area and/or University Course electives requirement. This, for mechanical engineering majors, must include ES110 Engineering & Society and a course in economics, such as EC350 Engineering Economics.

Free Electives

Students majoring in mechanical engineering have at least 6 credit hours available to use toward courses of their choice.

Clarkson Common Experience

The following courses are required for all students, irrespective of their program of study. These courses are offered during the fall semester, with FY100 First-Year Seminar being required of only first-year students. Both FY100 and UNIV190 are typically taken during the fall semester of the first year at Clarkson.

FY100 First-Year Seminar (1 credits)
UNIV190 The Clarkson Seminar (3 credits)