About the College Academics Research Co-op & Career Diversity K-12 Alumni Giving

Mechanical engineering student driving a formula car for The University of Akron

Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Program

Mechanical engineers are necessary in a variety of industries and capacities, ranging from small component designs to extremely large plants, machinery or vehicles. They research, design, build and test mechanical and thermal devices.

Our ME undergraduate curriculum teaches you the basic principles of thermal/fluids, structures and motion, and control systems to develop solutions for real-world challenges, processes and products.

Program Highlights

  • Co-op program provides paid, flexible, industry experience and is a great way to earn money while getting experience.
  • Nationally recognized design teams to apply what you learn in the classroom while you make friends, travel, and build your resume.
  • Many scholarships are available to significantly decrease the cost of going to school, from major specific scholarships to some you’re automatically considered for when you apply.
  • Tutoring and academic support at no additional cost to undergraduate students majoring in any field of engineering and engineering technology.

Admission Requirements

All students who meet the minimum requirements for admittance into The University of Akron and intend to major in mechanical engineering are accepted into the College.

If you are coming directly from high school, your high school records determine which first semester classes are right for you.

 ACCELERATED OPTION: You can earn this degree and a master's in five years and at a significant savings. Learn more about the: Accelerated degree option.

Please note: This excludes co-op.

 Manufacturing Graduate Certificate Program: Considering going back to school? Learn more about the Manufacturing Graduate Certificate Program.

If you are interested in working in the aerospace industry, explore our aerospace systems engineering program.

Career Opportunities

Mechanical engineers play important roles in the automotive, petroleum, energy generation and conversion, aerospace, tire, consulting, chemical, electronic, and manufacturing industries. They generally work in offices, but may visit worksites where a problem or piece of equipment needs their expertise. Mechanical engineers need to be technically minded, able to demonstrate numerical and scientific ability, and have problem-solving skills.

Individuals who graduate with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Akron have been placed at companies including Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Bridgestone/Firestone, and GPD Group.

Earn more in your career with a UA degree.

Student spotlight

Ryan Souders

Ryan Souders

“My time on the Fluid Powered Vehicle team greatly impacted my experience and enjoyment at UA. I joined the team as my Senior Design project, not knowing anyone else or much about fluid power. This project pushed us to our limits with persistence and dedication. The bike performed beautifully at the competition, and we finally got to see all our hard work pay off and just enjoy each other’s company for a while. If you're considering joining something, do it.”

— Ryan Souders
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering ‘24

Curriculum guides & courses

Accreditation

The BS in Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical and Similarly Named Engineering Programs Program Criteria. The program has specific educational objectives and student outcomes that prepare graduates to enter the professional practice of engineering.