Mechanical Engineering (B.S.)

FAST FACTS ›

  • More than 30 percent of our students said they had participated in an internship, according to the 2010-11 graduate survey.
  • Problem solving, creativity, flexibility, communication and teamwork are inherent characteristics of careers associated with mechanical engineering.
  • You can participate in research through Creative Inquiry, senior independent research or honors independent research while earning degree credit.
  • Our faculty members have degrees from top institutions worldwide; many have significant experience in industry or national labs.
ABOUT.

Have you ever wondered why it gets easier to balance a bicycle the faster you are traveling? Or why there are dimples on a golf ball? Then perhaps you should consider majoring in mechanical engineering. Here your curiosity and inventiveness will soar as you learn to look deeper into the behavior, design and production of things we use every day. With a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, you will be able to apply engineering analysis and design to matters that affect our everyday lives such as manufacturing; energy conversion and conservation; machines; materials; health; and vehicles for air, sea and land transportation. Because science and technology are ever changing, our program focuses on fundamental principles as well as modern tools. You will develop a foundation on which to embark on a path of lifelong learning as you practice mechanical engineering; earn advanced degrees; or go on to practice law, business or medicine.

CLASSES.

What you'll study:

Freshmen who major in engineering at Clemson are initially admitted into our general engineering program, where you will have a year to explore many different engineering disciplines, meet faculty from each of our engineering departments and discover which major fits your personal interests and talents.

Studying mechanical engineering prepares you in the basic sciences and math, thermal and fluid science, and mechanical systems. As classes progress, you will develop your analytical, design and experimental abilities, which will prepare you for the challenges and questions you will face in your career. Seniors choose from our technical electives classes, providing chances to focus on your interests or obtain a broader view of many mechanical engineering topics. Seniors also collaborate with classmates to solve a real-world problem supplied by an industry partner.

Research in our department encompasses experimental, analytical and computational work in the following areas:

  • Bioengineering and Biomaterials
  • Design
  • Dynamics and Controls
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Materials and Materials Processing
  • Manufacturing
  • Solid Mechanics
  • Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer and Combustion
  • Transportation Vehicles and Systems

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM.

Our students are active outside the classroom through student organizations, Creative Inquiry group and independent research projects, community and University service, and study abroad opportunities.

Internships and Research Projects:

BAJA SAE:
Join your peers at monthly meetings, go on plant tours, and work on a major hands-on project. You will design, build, test,and promote your very own rugged, single-seat off-road vehicle and race it in a national competition.
HONORS:
Clemson's Pi Tau Sigma chapter of the mechanical engineering honor society 
fosters high ideals in the profession. Members stimulate and support departmental activities, promote professional welfare and develop leadership and citizenship.
SAE:
The Society of Automotive Engineers is an international organization created to share knowledge between students and engineers. Clemson’s student chapter is dedicated to promoting the advancement of designing and building of automotive vehicles.
ASHRAE:
The American Association of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers works to advance heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world.
ASME:
The Clemson Student Chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers is a volunteer organization executed by undergraduate and graduate mechanical engineering students.
FORMULA SAE:
Similar to the Baja group, these students design, build, test, promote, and compete nationally with these on-road race vehicles. A new car is created each year from the ground up. Students recruit sponsors to provide funding and parts.

Connect with Other Students:

CAREERS.

What are students doing at graduation?*

53%

Employed

21%

Grad School

19%

Seeking Employment

7%

Other

Where are students headed at graduation?*

Recent employers and job titles*

  • Norfolk Naval Shipyard — Nuclear Engineer
  • BMW — Associate Engineer
  • General Electric — Mechanical Engineer

Recent graduate schools and sought degree types*

  • Florida State University — M.D.
  • Vanderbilt University — Ph.D.
  • Stanford University — M.S./Ph.D.

Common Career Areas**

  • Mechanical Power Generation
    • Internal Combustion Engines
    • Jet Engines
    • Steam Power Plants
    • Rockets
    • Energy Utilization and Conservation
  • Thermal/Fluids
    • Thermodynamics
    • Environmental Control
    • Refrigeration
    • Instrumentation and Control
  • Machine Sciences
    • Mechanical Design
    • Manufacturing and Production
    • Robotics
    • Operation and Maintenance
  • Production
    • Sales and Marketing
      • Management
        • Consulting
          • Research and Development
            • Teaching
              • Law
              *Represents only Clemson University graduates who completed Michelin® Career Center surveys from 2009 to 2011.
              **Used w/permission from Univ. of Tennessee.
              FIND OUT MORE.

              Have more questions or want more information? Fill out the form below, which goes directly to the following department contact as well as our admissions office.

              Christopher Porter, CES Undergraduate Recruitment Director
              864-656-7870 — cporter@clemson.edu