Undergraduate Program
B.S. Mechanical Engineering
Our Program
Mechanical engineering is a versatile and interdisciplinary field that includes everything from design at the molecular level to system integration of large-scale manufacturing machinery. Our program integrates theory and hands-on experiences to prepare graduates to creatively solve our world’s challenges through innovation.
Our state-of-the-art laboratories, student clubs, research, and machine shops give students opportunities to participate in our unique Learn by Doing curriculum from day one. Our hands-on approach prepares students to become successful and resourceful leaders in industry, government, and society.
How do I apply?
Cal Poly only accepts applications for the fall term. Interested applicants must submit the Cal State Apply online application.
Freshman Selection Criteria
Admission to Cal Poly is competitive in all majors. Cal Poly continues to have more qualified applicants than available new student spaces. All students must declare a major when submitting their application. Cal Poly comprehensively reviews all applications as we look for students who have strong academic records and are active in and outside the classroom. Beyond the basic qualifications for the California State University, Cal Poly considers other factors for admission deemed important to the campus and does so in an objective format. In fact, it is impossible to predict a candidate’s chances of admission by looking at the academic record alone. All candidates are objectively evaluated by the cognitive and non-cognitive variables under the faculty-mandated Multi-Criteria Admission (MCA) process.
For more details please visit the Admission Department’s website on selection criteria.
Visit the Cal Poly Admissions Department’s website for more information or to schedule a tour.
What can I specialize in?
During your junior and senior year, you can specialize in the area that best fits your goals and interests.
- General – Upper-division students in the General Curriculum can choose professional elective courses from such courses as turbomachinery, robotics, mechatronics, composite materials, rotor dynamics, advanced mechanics, solar systems, internal combustion engines, heat and mass transfer, and courses emphasizing the petroleum, air conditioning, ventilating, and refrigeration industries.
- Energy Resources – Prepares students for careers in renewable and nonrenewable energy companies producing electrical power, with the focus on the design, manufacture, and system integration of power and fuel plants.
- Sustainable Technology for the Built Environment (HVAC&R) – Prepares students for careers in the heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) industry, with a focus on the design of mechanical systems for commercial and industrial buildings.
- Manufacturing – Students focus on fabrication processes, preparing them for careers designing or manufacturing a wide variety of consumer and industrial products.
- Mechatronics – Prepares students for professional practice in the design of “intelligent” products for use in factory automation, robotics, hybrid vehicles, alternative energy, and many other fields.
What are the classes like?
Click on a video to learn more!