Effective Fall 2025, DGS will become the Division of Exploratory Studies. Same mission; new name.

Mechanical Engineering

Major Description

Mechanical Engineering (ME) provides hands-on and broad training in a wide variety of essential engineering topics, such as design and manufacturing, materials, thermal/fluid sciences, and controls, enabling our students to have a major impact on society. ME students benefit from an integrated, hands-on design sequence of five courses beginning in the freshmen year. One third of our ME students pursue graduate school and the rest pursue industry positions upon graduation.

Courses That Introduce the Major:
  • MATH 221—Calculus I
  • MATH 231—Calculus II
  • PHYS 211—University Physics: Mechanics
  • PHYS 212—University Physics: Electricity & Magnetism
  • CS 101—Introduction to Computing: Engineering & Science
  • ME 170—Computer-Aided Design
  • TAM 210—Introduction to Statics

Students should consult with an academic advisor regarding course selection prior to the advanced registration period.

Possible Career Opportunities:

There are a variety of professions that Mechanical Engineering students pursue. They are solving today’s most pressing technological challenges in energy and the environment, biology and health care, security and defense, transportation, micro-nano technology, design and manufacturing, robotics, and many other areas. Our students also gain problem-solving and communication skills to excel in non-traditional areas like finance, management, business, medicine, and law.

No
  • Communicate effectively
  • Design and conduct experiments
  • Knowledge of contemporary issues
  • Problem solving
  • Teamwork
  • Understanding of technology
  • Understanding of the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Aerodynamics Engineer
  • Automotive Engineer
  • Structural Engineer
  • Design Engineer
  • Process Engineer
  • Packaging Engineer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Robotics Engineer
  • Safety Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Technical Consultant 
  • Technical Sales Engineer
  • Quality Assurance Manager
  • Graduate Teaching/Research Assistant
  • Patent Lawyer Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Some careers may require education beyond an undergraduate degree.

Enhancing Your Academic Experience:
Further Information:

There are several professional organizations dedicated to Mechanical Engineering.  Their websites might be able to provide a glimpse in the world of Mechanical Engineering.  These organizations include American Society of Mechanical Engineers and Society of Automotive Engineers.

MechSE Undergraduate Programs Office – Temporary Location: 152 Computer Applications Building 605 East Springfield Ave. Champaign, IL 61820.

Phone Number: (217) 333-0366, Email: mechse-undergrad@illinois.edu