Mechanical Engineering

Learn how machines work. Then discover how to make them better. Use your knowledge to find practical solutions for real-world problems.

Why Study Mechanical Engineering?

World-changing engineering solutions are right around the corner. Sustainable cars, reusable rockets and advanced robotics — all these are possible because of mechanical engineering.

That's because mechanical engineers are the ultimate problem solvers. Their projects move our society toward smarter cities, autonomous manufacturing and resource-friendly materials.

Learn and take part in cutting-edge research. Your work could impact automotive, energy, manufacturing and aeronautic industries.

As we create a more sustainable world, mechanical engineers will lead the way. Will you be a part of it?

Why Study Mechanical Engineering at CSUN?

State-of-the-art Labs

CSUN has more than 20,000 square feet of mechanical engineering laboratory space dedicated to teaching and research activities.

The Mechanic Engineering department has many labs available for our students. They include:

• Mechanical Engineering Design Center
• Haas Laboratory
• W.M. Keck Composites Laboratory
• System Dynamics and Control Laboratory
• Thermal-Fluids Laboratory
• Measurement and Mechatronics Laboratory
• Wind Tunnel
• Systems Engineering Research Laboratory

Hands-on Learning

At CSUN, we approach engineering practically, not just theoretically. A key to this strategy is our senior design program.

You will design and develop a project, from idea through production — just like professional engineers. In the process, you'll overcome technical challenges and develop cooperative skills. Past senior design projects have included competitive aircraft designs, advanced prosthetic devices, autonomous intelligent ground vehicles, and human-powered vehicles.

Industry Connections

The department maintains strong relations with the community and continuously reviews its programs with students, alumni and employers of graduates. The department’s Industry Liaison Council consists of members in the professional community to ensure that the department receives a breadth of information on future engineering trends that would affect its mechanical engineering programs.

What You'll Learn

All Mechanical Engineering majors at CSUN receive a solid engineering foundation and hands-on experience.

During the first two years, you will take fundamental engineering courses. These include math, engineering mechanics and mechanical design.

In your third year, you will take more advanced courses. You will learn about thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, computer-aided analysis and design and more.

During your fourth year, you will take the last of your required courses. You will also choose an area of specialization to complete your final electives.

These areas are:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Automotive Engineering
• Controls Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Mechanical Design
• Thermal-Fluid Systems

You will also participate in the senior design program. You will apply your engineering knowledge to design and produce a project with guidance from professors.

Curriculum

Careers & Outcomes

Our program's combination of theoretical and practical learning prepares graduates to make an immediate impact in the workforce. Below are typical job titles and a sampling of employers of recent graduates.

Job Titles

Employers

Our students are going places.

CSUN's mechanical engineering students go far — in their human-powered vehicles! The CSUN Human Powered Vehicle Team designs, builds and tests its models. The team has placed in the top three at national competitions since 2015.

Visit the Human Powered Vehicle Team

Explore Related Programs

• Civil Engineering (Major)
• Manufacturing Systems Engineering (Major)
• Electrical Engineering (Major)