Major in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers are creative problem solvers who design and manufacture systems that power energy, transportation, and environmental solutions. At CSU, students learn to turn ideas into reality—developing sustainable energy technologies, medical devices, rockets, robots, and more.

From day one, students gain hands-on experience in labs, machine shops, and team-based projects that mirror industry challenges. Foundational courses in science, mathematics, and engineering sharpen problem-solving skills while practical training in design, coding, and manufacturing builds confidence and creativity.

Senior students tackle a year-long capstone design course to transition into engineering careers. With electives in fields like aerospace, energy, robotics, materials science, and biomedical engineering, CSU graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions to the world.

Mechanical Engineering at CSU is dedicated to graduating ethical mechanical engineers who:

• Make an impact on society’s global, grand engineering challenges.
• Act as innovative and creative engineering designers who identify, analyze, and solve complex problems.
• Function as accomplished thinkers with hands-on practical skills.
• Serve as local, regional, and global collaborators and communicators.
• Commit to life-long learning.
• Uphold the CSU Principles of Community which encompass inclusion, integrity, respect, service, and social justice.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

1. Identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
2. 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.
3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
4. 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.
5. Function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
6. Develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
7. Acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies. 

Building a Foundation for Professional Excellence

Graduates from the Department of Mechanical Engineering are expected to have the fundamental knowledge required for the successful practice of mechanical engineering. CSU engineering graduates are well prepared for a professional career. Participating in internships, co-curricular and volunteer activities, and cooperative education opportunities are highly recommended to enhance practical training and development. Students who continue to pursue a graduate education can attain more responsible positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels.

Concentrations

• Advanced Manufacturing Concentration
• Aerospace Engineering Concentration
• Mechanical Engineering Concentration
• Robotics and Automation Concentration

Effective Fall 2026

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Select enough elective credits to bring the program total to a minimum of 127 credits, of which at least 42 credits must be upper-division (300-level or higher).

Distinctive Requirements for Degree Program:
TO PREPARE FOR FIRST SEMESTER:  The curriculum for this major assumes students enter college prepared to take calculus.