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Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Our Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program is ABET-accredited and ranked #3 in Mechanical Engineering among Illinois public universities (U.S. News & World Report). We provide the solid mathematical and analytical foundation needed for success in both traditional and emerging career paths, as well as for pursuing advanced degrees. Our success is reflected in a nearly 100% job placement rate, with graduates joining leading companies such as Boeing, Caterpillar, Tesla, SpaceX, GE, John Deere, and Lockheed Martin.
Students can specialize in Aerospace Engineering or Energy Engineering, and non-mechanical engineering students who meet specific requirements may pursue an Energy Engineering minor.
Our faculty bring expertise from major universities across the nation, ensuring personalized instruction and access to cutting-edge research at a Carnegie R1: Doctoral University (Very High Research Activity). Our community is engaged and hands-on: our Formula SAE Race Car, NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge, and Design Challenge teams are thriving, and students regularly take on leadership roles in professional organizations and undergraduate research projects across campus.
Degree Requirements
The Electrical Engineering degree program is accomplished by fulfilling the requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree.
- Total Degree Requirements: 126 credit hours
- University Core Curriculum: 39 credit hours
- Major Requirements: 87 credit hours
View all related undergraduate courses.
Engineering students are breaking barriers to nature access! Discover how a team of SIU mechanical engineering seniors designed a unique adaptive hiking cart, allowing people with disabilities to enjoy the beauty of Southern Illinois’ trails. Read the Full Story
Specializations
Aerospace
Aerospace engineers are involved in the design of aircraft and spacecraft technologies, and their integration into vehicle propulsion systems used for transportation, communications, exploration, and defense applications.
Energy Engineering
The emerging field of Energy Engineering combines knowledge of physics, mathematics, and chemistry with environmental engineering. Energy engineers design and troubleshoot complex energy conversion, distribution and storage systems involved in power generation, energy services, facility management, manufacturing, environmental compliance, and sustainable and renewable energies
Materials Science & Engineering
Materials Science & Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that integrates chemistry, physics, and engineering to study the structure, properties, processing, and performance of materials. This specialization explores the evolution of materials from past to present, with a focus on designing and developing new materials for the future. Students gain expertise in material synthesis, processing techniques, property characterization, and practical applications for material design and selection.
Minor
The minor in Energy Engineering is designed to provide students in engineering, science, and energy business and finance (EBF), and related fields, with additional courses, exposure, and experiences to the principles and applications of energy engineering.
Coursework covers technologies associated with the transformation and use of energy in various forms including fossil, nuclear and renewable energy. Students may add this Minor to their degree by completing fifteen (15) credits.
Accreditation
Our Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, under the commission’s General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Mechanical and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
See What Our Students Say
Curious about what it’s like to be a part of the Mechanical Engineering program? Hear firsthand from students and graduates who have transformed their passion for innovation and design into impactful careers. Their experiences highlight the hands-on learning, cutting-edge research, and career opportunities that make this degree a launchpad for success.
Gaining Real-World Insights
Mechanical Engineering Seniors visit the Southern Illinois Power Cooperative to see firsthand how a working power plant operates, connecting classroom concepts to practical experience. This allows students to experience the inner workings of a real-world power plant, translating class lessons into tangible, industry-relevant knowledge.
Career Opportunities
SIU’s School of Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processing provides the foundation for a rewarding career in industry or advanced study in graduate and research programs. Our graduates are equipped with the technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in today’s competitive engineering fields.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 9% over the next decade—faster than average for all occupations. The median annual salary for mechanical engineers is $102,320 (May 2024 data).
Our alumni are making an impact at leading organizations such as Boeing, Caterpillar, Tesla, SpaceX, GE, John Deere, General Motors, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and NASA. With a nearly 100% job placement rate, SIU mechanical engineering graduates are well-prepared to lead in innovation, sustainability, and design across industries worldwide.
Capstone Option
The Capstone Option is available to students who have earned an Associate in Engineering Sciences (A.E.S.) degree with a minimum cumulative 2.0/4.0 GPA on all accredited coursework prior to the completion of the A.E.S., as calculated by the transfer institution's grading policies. The Capstone Option reduces the University Core Curriculum requirements from 39 to 30 credit hours, therefore reducing the time to degree completion.
Student Organizations
Get hands-on, push limits, and build your future through 11 unique student-led engineering organizations. Whether you're racing Moonbuggies, designing Formula-style cars, or connecting with professional societies like ASME and NSBE, there’s something here for every interest and career path. These groups let you sharpen your skills, grow your network, and have a blast while doing it.
Contact Information
Interim Director
Engineering E-27
1230 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-7833
farhan.chowdhury@siu.edu
Laura Morgan,
Academic Advisor
Engineering D-104
1230 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-2261
lauramorgan@siu.edu