Program Overview

Mechanical Engineering

Overview

Mechanical engineering is one of the most flexible—and practical—degrees. It's for people who want to know how different types of machines, engines, and systems work so they can make them better. Whether you want to design self-driving cars, improve wind turbines, build life-saving robots—or find other ways to change the world by solving problems—this program is for you.

What will I learn?

For the first few years, you'll take a lot of math and science courses and labs, including chemistry, physics, and calculus (through differential equations). Then, in later years, you’ll learn how to apply these skills in classes about mechanics, materials, heat transfer, manufacturing processes, and related topics. You’ll also have some flexibility to choose electives, take courses in business and communications, and even specialize in an area such as bioengineering, dynamics, or fluid sciences.

What can I do outside of class?

• Internships, co-ops, and experiential learning. From calibrating fuel injectors to making 3D models to improve heart attack care, UB students get real-world experience and compete in on-campus events like engineering intramurals.
• Student groups. Meet new friends and network with professionals through dozens of engineering clubs.
• Research. Undergraduates have worked on a smartwatch for stroke patients, a 3D printer that supports artificial intelligence, and much more, and have also presented at national conferences.
• Study abroad. If you’re looking for a life-changing experience and international perspective, consider going abroad; UB engineering students have traveled to Australia, Costa Rica, France, and many other countries during summer and winter breaks.

What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree?

UB grads make a difference. They've worked as VP of engineering for a robotics company, engine development engineer for Toyota Racing Development USA, product development engineer at Fisher-Price, CEO of a turbine-generator company … and the list goes on and on.

A mechanical engineering degree gives you opportunities to design, build, and test machines and devices in a variety of industries, including:

• Energy
  • Power generation
  • Power transmission
  • Wind turbines and other renewable energy
• Automotive
  • Aerodynamics of automobiles
  • Autonomous vehicles
  • Suspension systems
• Health care and medical devices
  • Pacemakers
  • Prosthetics
  • Surgical control systems
• Manufacturing
  • Engines and engine parts
  • HVAC systems
• Industrial equipment
  • Robotic systems
  • Sensors

Some graduates also use their mechanical engineering background for a career in business, law, or other fields.

Who will I learn from?

"Professors encourage thoughtful questions in class and are always looking for students to work on groundbreaking research projects with them."

As our students will tell you, our faculty members are exceptional teachers. They've won many awards, including the student-nominated Milton Plesur Excellence in Teaching Award, the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching, and the President Emeritus and Mrs. Meyerson Award for Distinguished Undergraduate Teaching and Mentoring.

In addition, they are nationally and internationally known for their research and scholarship in many areas of mechanical engineering. They have been named as Fellows of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASM International, and the American Society of Thermal and Fluids Engineers (ASTFE)—and have also been recognized by the Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, and other leading organizations.