As a mechanical engineering major, you will learn about manufacturing processes, energy generation, storage and use, and how to design mechanical equipment and systems. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in areas as wide-ranging as robotics, biomedical engineering, product design, computational mechanics, thermal energy systems and many more.
Throughout the program, you will build a strong foundation in core engineering disciplines while developing problem-solving skills essential for real-world applications. In addition, the program offers extensive opportunities for hands-on learning, including:
- laboratories in mechanics of materials, manufacturing, measurements, energy systems, vibrations, aerodynamics, and more as part of the undergraduate curriculum.
- a two-semester senior design capstone course, where you will work on designing solutions to real world problems in collaboration with industrial, community or academic partners.
- access to state-of-the-art makerspace and workshops.
- participating in world-class research, collaborating with graduate students and researchers in our faculty's labs.
- getting involved in student organizations and competition teams
A mechanical engineering degree opens doors to a variety of careers. You will benefit from a large network of alumni who have been successful in a broad range of industries, and even beyond engineering, including in finance, healthcare, law, or business.
How to Get in
Admission to the College as a First-Year Student
Students applying to UW–Madison need to indicate an engineering major as their first choice in order to be considered for direct admission to the College of Engineering. Direct admission means that students get to start their college career in the engineering program of their choice and have access to engineering-specific resources and facilities. Students who are directly admitted need to meet progression requirements at the end of the first year to guarantee advancement in that program.
Current UW-Madison Students (Cross-Campus Transfer to Engineering)
| Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| How to get in | Application required. Meeting the requirements listed below does not guarantee admission. (https://engineering.wisc.edu/admissions/undergraduate/cross-campus-students/) |
| Application restrictions |
|
| Credits required to get in | 24 graded credits completed at UW-Madison, including at least one full-time (12 credit) semester. English as a Second Language course credits count toward the 24 credit minimum. |
| Courses required to get in | Engr Comm 1 (Comm A) requirement taken on a graded basis at UW-Madison. If the Comm A requirement has been satisfied through placement test, AP/IB, or transfer credit, then a liberal studies course of at least 3 credits (breadth designation of Humanities, Literature, or Social Sciences) must be taken on a graded basis at UW-Madison. Math course sequence through MATH 222. Four foundational courses completed on a graded basis at UW-Madison, as defined in the Foundational Courses List below. |
Foundational courses list
Four Foundational Courses must be completed at UW-Madison as defined in 1. and 2.
1. Math Foundation
A minimum of two math courses numbered 221 or higher; one math course 300 level or higher; or calculus sequence completed through MATH 234. Excludes MATH 228, MATH/HIST SCI 473, special topics, independent study, seminar, pass/fail, and credit/no credit courses.
2. Engineering Foundation
A minimum of two courses as defined below:
Chemical Engineering:
(i) one course must be CHEM 104 or higher
(ii) one course must be PHYSICS 201/E M A 201 or higher
If the above two course requirements are completed with transfer or test credit, select from additional engineering foundation courses in (ii) below.
Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Engineering Physics, Environmental Engineering, Geological Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering:
(i) one course must be CHEM 104 or higher OR PHYSICS 201/E M A 201 or higher
(ii) one other engineering foundation course from the following subject codes:
- Chemistry
- E M A 201, E M A 202, E M A 303
- PHYSICS 201 or higher
- Statistics, calculus-based
- COMP SCI 200, COMP SCI 220, COMP SCI 300 or higher, excluding COMP SCI 304
- excludes special topics, independent study, seminar, pass/fail, and credit/no credit courses
3. Additional foundational course options, if applicable
If the math and engineering foundational courses for the degree program are complete, then degree program engineering courses 200 level or higher can be taken to complete the Four Foundational Courses requirement. Excludes EPD, InterEGR, special topics, independent study, seminar, pass/fail, and credit/no credit courses.
Additional considerations
Cross-campus admission is selective. The admissions committee considers applicants’ grades/grade trends, academic rigor, and personal statement. The College of Engineering offers an online information tutorial and advising for students to learn about the cross-campus transfer process.
| Semester | Deadline to apply | Decision notification timeline |
|---|---|---|
| To apply for a fall start | Mid May | Late June |
| To apply for a spring start | Late December/Early January | Late January |
| To apply for a summer start | This program does not accept applications to start in the summer. |
Off-Campus Transfer to Engineering
With careful planning, students at other accredited institutions can transfer coursework that will apply toward engineering degree requirements at UW–Madison. Off-campus transfer applicants are considered for direct admission to the College of Engineering by applying to the Office of Admissions with an engineering major listed as their first choice. Those who are admitted to their intended engineering program must meet progression requirements at the point of transfer or within their first two semesters at UW–Madison to guarantee advancement in that program. Transfer admission to the College of Engineering is selective. A minimum of 30 credits in residence in the College of Engineering is required after transferring, and all students must meet all requirements for their engineering major.
The College of Engineering has dual degree transfer agreements with select four-year UW System campuses and a transfer agreement with Madison College. Eligible students in COE's transfer agreements automatically meet progression at the point of transfer.
Off-campus transfer students are encouraged to discuss their interests, academic background, and admission options with the Transfer & Academic Program Manager in the College of Engineering: ugtransfer@engr.wisc.edu.
Second Bachelor's Degree
The College of Engineering does not accept second undergraduate degree applications. Second degree students might explore the Biological Systems Engineering program at UW–Madison, an undergraduate engineering degree elsewhere, or a graduate program in the College of Engineering.
University Requirements
All undergraduate students must complete both the following Core General Education (Core GenEd) and University Degree and Quality of Work requirements. The requirements below apply to students whose first term at UW-Madison or whose earliest post-high school college attendance at any institution is Summer 2026 or later.
Students whose first term at UW-Madison or whose earliest post-high school college attendance at any institution occurred before Summer 2026 should refer to the archived Guide for the requirements that apply to them.
Core General Education (Core GenEd) Requirements
| Civics & Perspectives | 3 credits of Civics & Perspectives coursework. |
| Communication & Literacy | 6 credits of Communication & Literacy coursework. This requirement may be partially satisfied by a qualifying placement test score. For more information see this tiny url: https://go.wisc.edu/qualifyingenglishplacement |
| Humanities & Arts | 6 credits of Humanities & Arts coursework. |
| Mathematics & Quantitative Reasoning | 6 credits of Mathematics & Quantitative Reasoning coursework. This requirement may be partially satisfied by a qualifying placement test score. For more information see this tiny url: https://go.wisc.edu/qualifyingmathplacement |
| Natural Science & Wellness | Complete both:
|
| Social & Behavioral Science | 3 credits of Social & Behavioral Science coursework. |
| Total Credits | 30 credits. |
For more information see the policy.
University Degree and Quality of Work Requirements
All undergraduate degree recipients must complete the following minimum requirements. Requirements for some programs will exceed these requirements; see program requirements for additional information.
| Total Degree | 120 degree credits. |
| Residency | Complete 30 credits in residence. A course is considered “in residence” if it is taken when in undergraduate degree-seeking status and:
|
| Quality of Work | Achieve at least the minimum grade point average specified by the school, college, and/or academic program. |
| Math | Demonstrate minimal mathematics competence by: |
| English Language | If required to take the UW-Madison English as a Second Language Assessment Test (MSN-ESLAT), demonstrate minimal English language competence by:
|
| Language | Complete one:
|
| Major Declaration | Declare and complete the requirements for at least one major. |
College of Engineering Degree Granting Programs’ Common Requirements
The College of Engineering departments collaborated and adopted a common set of guidelines in their degree granting program (major) requirements. Engineering departments incorporate specific coursework within their curricula to meet these guidelines. Students should refer to specific coursework detailed below the Summary of Requirements.
College of Engineering Degree Granting Programs’ Common Requirements
| Communication | All College of Engineering majors require two levels of communication coursework:
|
| Quantitative Reasoning | All College of Engineering majors require a math sequence that incorporates two levels of quantitative reasoning. |
| Humanities or Literature | All College of Engineering majors require a minimum of 6 credits with the Humanities or Literature breadth designations. See major Liberal Studies Electives Requirement below. |
| Social Sciences | All College of Engineering majors require a minimum of 3 credits with the Social Sciences breadth designation. See major Liberal Studies Electives Requirement below. |
| Natural Sciences | All College of Engineering majors require specific coursework that incorporates a minimum of 6 credits with the Biological, Natural, or Physical Science breadth designations. |
| Ethnic Studies | All College of Engineering majors require at least one course of at least 3 credits with the Ethnic Studies designation. This course may also be used to satisfy the Social Sciences or Humanities or Literature requirement. |
Mechanical Engineering, BS Curriculum
This curriculum applies to students admitted to the degree program this Guide academic year. Curricular requirements for students admitted in previous semesters are available in the Archive section of Guide.
Summary of Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics and Statistics | 19 | |
| Basic Science | 13-14 | |
| Non–Mechanical Engineering | 6 | |
| Mechanical Engineering Core | 54 | |
| Technical Electives | 12 | |
| Math/Science Electives | 3 | |
| Communication Skills | 6 | |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 15 | |
| Total Credits | 128 | |
Mathematics and Statistics1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MATH 221 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1 | 5 |
| MATH 222 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 2 | 4 |
| MATH 234 | Calculus--Functions of Several Variables | 4 |
| MATH 320 | Linear Algebra and Differential Equations 2 | 3 |
| STAT 324 | Introduction to Statistics for Science and Engineering | 3 |
| or I SY E 210 | Introduction to Industrial Statistics | |
| Total Credits | 19 | |
- 1
All students must have the equivalent of the above courses. If the above requirement is fulfilled with fewer than 19 credits, additional math/science credits may be needed to meet the math/science auxiliary credit condition.
Transfer students may fulfill the statistics requirement with other statistics courses having a calculus prerequisite and the approval of the mechanical engineering department.
- 2
The MATH 320 requirement may also be satisfied by combining MATH 319 and MATH 340. In that case, MATH 340 may count towards Math/Science elective or non-ME technical elective requirements.
Basic Science1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one of the following: | ||
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry I | 4-5 |
| or CHEM 104 | General Chemistry II | |
| or CHEM 109 | Advanced General Chemistry | |
| COMP SCI 220 | Data Science Programming I 2 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 202 | General Physics 3 | 5 |
| Total Credits | 13-14 | |
- 1
Basic science courses, excluding Computer Science courses, are included in the math/science auxiliary credit condition.
- 2
COMP SCI 220 Data Science Programming I is the preferred required computer science course. If a student needs to take COMP SCI 300 Programming II to satisfy requirements for another major or certificate, COMP SCI 300 Programming II can count for the computer science requirement.
- 3
Students following the normal M E course sequence need not take PHYSICS 201 General Physics to satisfy the prerequisites for PHYSICS 202 General Physics.
Non-Mechanical Engineering
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| E M A 201 | Statics (with a grade of C or better) | 3 |
| M S & E 350 | Introduction to Materials Science | 3 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Mechanical Engineering Core
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| E M A 202 | Dynamics (with a grade of C or better) | 3 |
| E M A 303 | Mechanics of Materials (with a grade of C or better) | 3 |
| M E 201 | Introduction to Mechanical Engineering 1 | 3 |
| M E 231 | Geometric Modeling for Design and Manufacturing | 3 |
| M E/E M A 307 | Mechanics of Materials Lab | 1 |
| M E 310 | Manufacturing: Polymer Processing and Engineering | 3 |
| M E 311 | Manufacturing: Metals and Automation | 3 |
| M E 331 | Computer-Aided Engineering | 3 |
| M E 340 | Dynamic Systems | 3 |
| M E 342 | Design of Machine Elements | 3 |
| M E 351 & M E 352 | Interdisciplinary Experiential Design Projects I and Interdisciplinary Experiential Design Projects II 2 | 6 |
| M E 361 | Thermodynamics (with a grade of C or better) | 3 |
| M E 363 | Fluid Dynamics | 3 |
| M E 364 | Elementary Heat Transfer | 3 |
| M E 368 | Engineering Measurements and Instrumentation | 4 |
| M E 370 | Energy Systems Laboratory | 3 |
| M E 376 | Introduction to Mechatronics | 4 |
| Total Credits | 54 | |
- 1
M E 201 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering is the preferred introduction to engineering course. If a student begins in another engineering major, other introduction to engineering courses can count for the introduction to engineering requirement.
- 2
M E 351 Interdisciplinary Experiential Design Projects I is a fall-only course and M E 352 Interdisciplinary Experiential Design Projects II is a spring-only course. These courses should be taken in sequence. To request an exception to take these courses out of sequence, contact the Senior Design Program Coordinator. Approved exceptions to the course sequence will require concurrent enrollment in M E 353 Introduction to Design Projects in Mechanical Engineering - Supplemental.
Technical Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| The mechanical engineering curriculum requires a total of 12 credits of technical electives. A minimum of 3 of those 12 credits must be from formal ME or EMA courses numbered 400 and higher. A formal course is defined as a class that meets regularly in a lecture format to study a selected topic. The educational mission is assisted with homework and exams. Formal courses include online courses but do not include seminar, survey, independent study, research or similar courses. | 12 | |
| Additional technical electives may include formal courses in engineering, mathematics, physics, chemistry, statistics, and computer science courses numbered 400 and higher. Course choices may impact the math/science auxiliary credit condition. INTEREGR and E P D courses are limited to those listed below. The following courses are also accepted as technical electives: | ||
| ANAT&PHY 335 | Physiology | 5 |
| BIOCHEM 501 | Introduction to Biochemistry | 3 |
| B M E 315 | Biomechanics | 3 |
| BSE 364 | Engineering Properties of Food and Biological Materials | 3 |
| BSE/ENVIR ST 367 | Renewable Energy Systems | 3 |
| CBE 320 | Introductory Transport Phenomena | 4 |
| CBE 326 | Momentum and Heat Transfer Operations | 3 |
| CHEM 341 | Elementary Organic Chemistry | 3 |
| CHEM 343 | Organic Chemistry I | 3 |
| CHEM 345 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 311 | Hydroscience | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 320 | Environmental Engineering | 3 |
| CIV ENGR/G L E 330 | Soil Mechanics | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 340 | Structural Analysis I | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 370 | Transportation Engineering | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 392 | Building Information Modeling (BIM) | 3 |
| CIV ENGR 415 | Hydrology | 3 |
| CNSR SCI 357 | Consumer Behavior | 3 |
| CNSR SCI 555 | Consumer Strategy Consulting Practicum | 3 |
| COMP SCI 300 | Programming II | 3 |
| COMP SCI 320 | Data Science Programming II | 4 |
| COMP SCI/E C E 354 | Machine Organization and Programming | 3 |
| DS 341 | Design Thinking for Transformation | 3 |
| E C E 320 | Electrodynamics II | 3 |
| E C E 330 | Signals and Systems | 3 |
| E C E 340 | Electronic Circuits I | 3 |
| E C E 342 | Electronic Circuits II | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 352 | Digital System Fundamentals | 3 |
| E C E 353 | Introduction to Microprocessor Systems | 3 |
| E C E/COMP SCI 354 | Machine Organization and Programming | 3 |
| E C E 355 | Electromechanical Energy Conversion | 3 |
| or E C E 377 | Fundamentals of Electrical and Electro-mechanical Power Conversion | |
| E C E 356 | Electric Power Processing for Alternative Energy Systems | 3 |
| E P D 660 | Core Competencies of Sustainability | 3 |
| INFO SYS 371 | Technology of Computer-Based Business Systems | 3 |
| INTEREGR 303 | Applied Leadership Competencies in Engineering | 3 |
| INTEREGR 477 | Tools for Prototyping and Manufacturing | 1-3 |
| I SY E 315 | Production Planning and Control | 3 |
| I SY E 323 | Operations Research-Deterministic Modeling | 3 |
| I SY E/PSYCH 349 | Introduction to Human Factors | 3 |
| MATH 321 | Applied Mathematical Analysis 1: Vector and Complex Calculus | 3 |
| MATH 322 | Applied Mathematical Analysis 2: Partial Differential Equations | 3 |
| M E 273 | Engineering Problem Solving with EES | 1 |
| M S & E 330 | Thermodynamics of Materials | 4 |
| M S & E 332 | Macroprocessing of Materials | 3 |
| M S & E 352 | Materials Science-Transformation of Solids | 3 |
| NAV SCI 301 | Naval Engineering | 3 |
| N E 305 | Fundamentals of Nuclear Engineering | 3 |
| PHYSICS 205 | Modern Physics for Engineers | 3 |
| PHYSICS 241 | Introduction to Modern Physics | 3 |
| PHYSICS 311 | Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYSICS 321 | Electric Circuits and Electronics | 4 |
| PHYSICS 322 | Electromagnetic Fields | 3 |
| PHYSICS 325 | Optics | 4 |
| STAT 311 | Introduction to Theory and Methods of Mathematical Statistics I | 3 |
| STAT 312 | Introduction to Theory and Methods of Mathematical Statistics II | 3 |
| STAT 333 | Applied Regression Analysis | 3 |
| STAT 349 | Introduction to Time Series | 3 |
| STAT 351 | Introductory Nonparametric Statistics | 3 |
| Up to 3 technical elective credits may be obtained for non-formal courses such as independent study courses (M E 488, M E 489, M E 491, M E 492, and other engineering independent study courses numbered 399 and higher) and Cooperative Education (M E 1). Students may propose a course to their academic advisor that they feel will benefit their mechanical engineering education path. To be a strong candidate, the proposed course should have pre-requisites of two physics or calculus courses. For these courses, the ME curriculum committee will review the request and if approved, recommend a DARS substitution. | ||
Math/Science Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| The mechanical engineering curriculum requires 3 credits of math/science electives. CHEM 104 or CHEM 109, any formal course listed as a biological science and numbered 100 or higher, any non-engineering formal course listed with physical or natural science breadth and numbered 200 or higher will satisfy this requirement. If the math/science auxiliary credit condition is met with additional coursework, the math/science elective requirement may be met with a formal course offered by an engineering department numbered 200 and above (except INTEREGR and E P D). | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 3 | |
Communication Skills
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Engr Comm 1 | ||
| INTEREGR 156 | Introduction to Writing, Speaking, and Ethics for Engineers | 3 |
| or ENGL 100 | Introduction to College Composition | |
| or LSC 100 | Science and Storytelling | |
| or COM ARTS 100 | Introduction to Speech Composition | |
| or ESL 118 | Academic Writing II | |
| Engr Comm 2 | ||
| INTEREGR 397 | Engineering Communication | 3 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Liberal Studies Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| The Mechanical Engineering curriculum requires 15 credits of liberal studies electives courses. See College of Engineering Liberal Studies Requirements for details. | ||
| Complete Requirements | 15 | |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
Additional Information
Students fulfilling all course requirements with fewer than 128 credits must comply with the credit minimum by taking additional free elective credits. Students must meet the math/science auxiliary credit condition with a minimum of 30 credits. Students in good academic standing may take free elective courses pass/fail (see the College of Engineering Official Regulations for details). Pass/fail courses do not count toward specific degree requirements.
Independent Studies and projects courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| M E 291 | Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Projects | 1-3 |
| M E 299 | Independent Study | 1-3 |
| M E 488 | Honors in Research I | 3 |
| M E 489 | Honors in Research II | 3 |
| M E 491 | Mechanical Engineering Projects I | 1-3 |
| M E 492 | Mechanical Engineering Projects II | 1-3 |
Students must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA or a 3.0 GPA for their previous two semesters and have written permission to enroll from their research advisor.
For information on credit loads, adding or dropping courses, course substitutions, pass/fail, auditing courses, dean's honor list, repeating courses, probation, and graduation, see the College of Engineering Official Regulations.
Honors in Research Program
The Department of Mechanical Engineering’s Undergraduate Honors in Research Program offers students the opportunity to contribute to the creation of new knowledge and experience the research process. Participants work closely with a faculty advisor and complete a senior thesis based on their research.
Admission Requirements
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Complete at least 2 semesters on the UW-Madison campus | ||
| Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 | ||
| Have completed progression in Mechanical Engineering | ||
| Obtain approval from a faculty member who agrees to serve as the thesis advisor | ||
Enrollment Process
To enroll in the Honors in Research program
- Identify and confirm a faculty member who is willing to serve as your research advisor.
- Ask your faculty advisor to send an email to me-enrollment@engr.wisc.edu, with you copied (cc'd), confirming they will serve as your advisor for the Honors in Research project.
- Once confirmation is received, you will be granted permission to enroll in E M A 488 Honors in Research I.
Completion Requirements
Students who fulfill the following criteria will receive the "Honors in Research" designation on their transcript and diploma:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfy all requirements for the BS in Mechanical Engineering | ||
| Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher | ||
| M E 488 | Honors in Research I | 3 |
| or M E 491 | Mechanical Engineering Projects I | |
| or E M A 488 | Honors in Research I | |
| or E M A 599 | Independent Study | |
| M E 489 | Honors in Research II (with grade of B or better) | 3 |
| Complete and submit a senior thesis | ||
| (Optional) Present the thesis formally, at the discretion of the faculty advisor | ||
Learning Outcomes
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
- an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
- an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
- an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
- an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
- an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
- an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.
Four-Year Plan
Sample Four-Year Plan
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 221 | 5 | MATH 222 | 4 |
| CHEM 103, 104, or 1091 | 4 | E M A 2012 | 3 |
| M E 201 or INTEREGR 156 (Engr Comm 1) | 3 | M E 231 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | INTEREGR 156 or M E 201 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| E M A 3032 | 3 | E M A 2022 | 3 |
| MATH 234 | 4 | MATH 320 | 3 |
| M E/E M A 307 | 1 | PHYSICS 202 | 5 |
| COMP SCI 220 | 4 | M S & E 350 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | STAT 324 or I SY E 210 | 3 |
| 15 | 17 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| M E 331 | 3 | M E 342 | 3 |
| M E 3612 | 3 | M E 363 | 3 |
| M E 340 | 3 | INTEREGR 397 | 3 |
| Math/Science Elective | 3 | M E 376 | 4 |
| M E 310 | 3 | M E 311 | 3 |
| Liberal Studies Elective | 3 | ||
| 18 | 16 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| M E 3513 | 3 | M E 3523 | 3 |
| M E 364 | 3 | M E 370 | 3 |
| M E 368 | 4 | Technical Elective | 3 |
| Technical Elective | 3 | Technical Elective | 3 |
| Technical Elective | 3 | Liberal Studies Elective | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 128 | |||
- 1
CHEM 109 Advanced General Chemistry may be taken in place of CHEM 103 General Chemistry I. If CHEM 103 is taken, students may need to take additional free electives to meet the minimum number of credits required for the degree.
- 2
E M A 201 Statics, E M A 202 Dynamics, E M A 303 Mechanics of Materials, and M E 361 Thermodynamics each require a minimum grade of C.
- 3
M E 351 is a fall-only course and M E 352 is a spring-only course. These courses should be taken in sequence. To request an exception to take these courses out of sequence, contact the Senior Design Program Coordinator. Approved exceptions to the course sequence will require concurrent enrollment in M E 353.
Advising and Careers
Advising
Every College of Engineering undergraduate has an assigned academic advisor. Academic advisors support and coach students through their transition to college and their academic program all the way through graduation.
Advisors help students navigate the highly structured engineering curricula and course sequencing, working with them to select courses each semester.
When facing a challenge or making a plan toward a goal, students can start with their academic advisor. There are many outstanding resources at UW–Madison, and academic advisors are trained to help students navigate these resources. Advisors not only inform students about the various resources, but they help reduce the barriers between students and campus resources to help students feel empowered to pursue their goals and communicate their needs.
Students can find their assigned advisor in their MyUW Student Center.
Engineering Career Services
Engineering Career Services (ECS) assists students in finding work-based learning experiences such as co-ops and summer internships, exploring and applying to graduate or professional school, and finding full-time professional employment.
ECS offers two large career fairs per year, assists students with resume building and developing interviewing skills, hosts skill-building workshops, and meets one-on-one with students to discuss offer negotiations.
Students are encouraged to engage with the ECS office early in their academic careers. For more information on ECS programs and workshops, visit: https://ecs.wisc.edu.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.
Program Educational Objectives for the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
We recognize that our graduates will choose to use the knowledge and skills that they have acquired during their undergraduate years to pursue a wide variety of career and life goals, and we encourage this diversity of paths. Whatever path our graduates may choose, we expect them to be meeting the following objectives at least three to five years after graduation:
- They will exhibit a fundamental understanding of broader engineering disciplines with strong skills in mechanical engineering, problem solving, leadership, teamwork, and communication.
- They will use these skills to contribute to their organizations and communities.
- They will make thoughtful, well-informed decisions in their career and life.
- They will demonstrate a continuing commitment to and interest in their own and others' education.
Note: Undergraduate Student Outcomes, number of degrees conferred, and enrollment data are made publicly available at the Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Program website. (In this Guide, the program's Student Outcomes are available through the "Learning Outcomes" tab.)