BS in Mechanical Engineering (BSME Degree)

Why Major in Mechanical Engineering at ONU?

Mechanical engineering opens doors to limitless possibilities as the broadest and most versatile engineering field. Join us to embark on a journey of self-discovery through hands-on experiences that foster creative thinking, problem-solving, and technical mastery in a supportive community.

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What does it take to design the next-generation automobile, build a robotic system for a manufacturer, develop alternative energy solutions, or start your own company? The BSME program guides your unique pathway through:

Faculty mentors who support you every step of the way.
Discovery of materials science, mechatronics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, the design process, and more.
Concentrations in aerospace, sustainable engineering, automotive engineering, manufacturing, robotics, or biomedical engineering.
Real-world experiences, including lab work, internships, and co-op.

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Facts to Build On

Here, you’ll discover who you are and what you can do.

15 In the nation for mechanical engineering departments at universities without a PhD program, according to U.S. News & World Report
12 College in the nation for undergraduate engineering at universities without a PhD program, according to U.S. News & World Report
90% Of students complete internships, co-ops, or research experiences
$28K Average scholarships

Cultivate Your Professional Network

In the mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree program, you discover a welcoming community that nurtures your professional growth. Network with technical and business leaders at career fairs, industry events, and field trips. ONU College of Engineering’s strong industry connections guide you toward the most cutting-edge insights, resources, and professional development in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and more.

Discover Your Value-Rich Engineering Path

Ranked as a “Best Value” University in Ohio, ONU offers generous scholarships and financial aid. You may receive merit scholarships up to $29,500 or even a full-tuition scholarship. Our rigorous mechanical engineering degree program, coupled with affordable tuition, launches you into career success and strong financial outcomes.

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Photo of Student working on Mechanical Engineering Project

Photo of Mechanical Engineering Student working on class project

Photo of an ONU student building a rocket

Photo of ONU students working on a rocket

ABET is a nonprofit, ISO 9001 certified organization that accredits college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering and engineering technology. The mechanical engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under the commission's General Criteria and Program Criteria for mechanical engineering.

BSME Program Courses and Curriculum

In the Dr. Carl D. Clay and H. Jane Clay Department of Mechanical Engineering there is a wide range of rigorous courses and hands-on learning. The BS in Mechanical Engineering program curriculum is designed to spark your curiosity and fuel your passion for discovery. The degree program requires 128 credit hours of study, including foundational engineering courses and electives.

Enrolled as a first-year student, you can complete the BSME degree in four years. You may also choose to increase your professional experience through co-op, which extends the time to graduation to five years.

The mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree program takes you on a transformative journey that broadens your horizon. Get ready to explore the thermal sciences, mechanical design and analysis, control and automation systems, modeling, simulation, manufacturing, experimentation, and the principles of engineering design and project management.

Through elective courses, you build deeper expertise in areas like aircraft design, automotive design, advanced manufacturing and quality control, robotics and mechatronics, renewable energy systems, machine learning, or biomechanics. You attain practical skills in testing and optimizing design through engineering simulation, such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA).

In addition, you gain an understanding of the value of persistence and resilience, the role of engineers in service to the community, and an appreciation for the intersection of engineering design and the realities of manufacturing in the context of solutions to real-world problems.

Co-op and Capstone: Where Learning Becomes Real

The BSME program curriculum incorporates many experiential learning components that can deepen your understanding and enhance your career readiness. Your bachelor’s degree culminates in a capstone project, where you leverage all you learn throughout the program to solve a mechanical problem and present the results of your project through a written report and presentation.

The mechanical engineering major also provides co-op employment opportunities, which begin in the second semester of the junior year and continue for one year. With our supportive faculty mentors by your side, you roll up your sleeves and solve meaningful mechanical problems through co-op, internships, inquiry-driven research, and exciting engineering competitions. Our mechanical engineering students co-op at Battelle Memorial Institute, Marathon, Copeland, Honda, and other well-known companies.

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Coming to ONU has really changed who I am as a person. I have gained the confidence I need to go out into the real world and succeed in my future career and also just life in general. I will forever be grateful to ONU for giving me a great college experience and a ton of amazing memories.”

Katelyn Keckler, mechanical engineering major

Forge Your Unique Path With a Concentration

Whether you want to design the next great car or aircraft, create medical devices that improve lives, or ensure manufacturing is efficient and sustainable, you can get the tools, mentorship, and hands-on experience to make it happen at ONU. Tailor the mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree program to your passions with one of the six concentrations below.

Ohio is home to key aerospace players, such as NASA’s Glenn Research Center and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the largest Air Force research and development hubs in the country. Aerospace engineering spans both the defense and commercial sectors. Engineers with knowledge of computational fluid dynamics, aircraft design, and thermodynamics will find opportunities in aircraft manufacturing, defense contractors, and government agencies focused on air and space exploration.

Why the Aerospace Engineering concentration:
Have you ever looked up at the sky and wondered how aircraft soar or how space exploration advances? The Aerospace Engineering concentration dives into cutting-edge topics like aircraft design, advanced thermodynamics, and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), where you model how air interacts with machines in flight. Put your knowledge to the test by participating in an aircraft design-build-fly competition team, gaining valuable real-world experience.

Career paths:
A BS in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in aerospace engineering prepares you to work in aviation, space exploration, and defense. You could design aircraft, drones, or even spacecraft for major aerospace companies, government agencies like NASA, or defense contractors. Whether you’re working on commercial jets or developing next-gen space technology, the sky is truly the limit.

Aerospace Engineering academic page
Robotics engineering is growing across multiple industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, where companies increasingly adopt automation to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. Ohio’s industrial sector, particularly in manufacturing automation, is driving demand for engineers with skills in mechatronics and industrial controls.

Why the Robotics concentration:
Choose this concentration if you are passionate about optimizing operational efficiency. Through the course of study, you explore robotics, mechatronics, and industrial controls, learning to create systems that combine mechanical components with electronics and software. From designing a robot football team to developing autonomous systems for factories, you gain hands-on experience in bringing ideas to life.

Career paths:
With a mechanical engineering degree and robotics expertise, you graduate ready for roles in industries like manufacturing automation, medical devices, and even artificial intelligence-driven robotics. Robotics engineers are in high demand in sectors from automotive manufacturing to healthcare, where automation and intelligent systems are revolutionizing how we live and work.

Robotics academic page
Manufacturing engineers play a pivotal role in increasing production efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring product quality. Companies across industries — from automotive plants to medical device manufacturing — are continuously seeking to optimize operations.

Why the Manufacturing concentration: The Manufacturing concentration appeals to those who endeavor to optimize production processes and accuracy. It offers the chance to learn about the full production cycle, from raw materials to finished products. You delve into quality control, manufacturing processes, and statistical process control — tools that are critical for ensuring high-quality products and optimizing production systems.

Career paths:
Ohio’s economy has deep roots in manufacturing, particularly in automotive, aerospace, and consumer products. There’s a high demand for engineers with expertise in quality control, manufacturing processes, and industrial automation.

With a strong manufacturing base in Northwest Ohio and beyond, this concentration prepares you for roles in production management, quality assurance, and industrial engineering.

Manufacturing academic page
Biomedical engineers develop life-saving technologies, from artificial organs to wearable health monitors, making this one of the most impactful and rewarding career paths.

Why the Biomedical Engineering concentration:
Are you passionate about making a difference in healthcare through technology? Specialize in biomedical engineering to explore biomechanics, biomaterials, and biomedical devices. You learn how to design and improve medical equipment that saves lives. The mix of human anatomy and physiology with cutting-edge engineering prepares you to create innovations like prosthetics, implants, and advanced diagnostic tools.

Career paths:
With this concentration, you can pursue roles in the booming biomedical field, working for medical device manufacturers, hospitals, or research labs. Ohio has a strong healthcare and medical device manufacturing industry, particularly in cities like Cleveland, home to the Cleveland Clinic. Biomedical engineers are sought after to develop medical devices, prosthetics, and other healthcare technologies.

Biomedical Engineering academic page
Ohio’s automotive industry is a critical sector, with major manufacturers such as General Motors, Ford, and Honda. Transitioning toward electric and autonomous vehicles, the state has a strong demand for engineers specializing in automotive design, 3D modeling, and dynamic systems.

Why the Automotive Engineering Concentration:
The automotive industry is transforming, and with this concentration, you become ready to lead this movement. Automotive Engineering is ideal for those fascinated by how cars work and eager to explore the future of transportation. You gain skills in automotive design, 3D modeling, and dynamic systems modeling, allowing you to innovate in an industry that’s moving rapidly toward electric and autonomous vehicles.

Career Paths:
Careers span from vehicle design and testing to working on advanced technologies like electric drivetrains and self-driving cars. With Northwest Ohio's proximity to major auto manufacturers, you have strong connections to some of the biggest players in the industry.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s the future of engineering. In this concentration, you learn how to design systems and products that are energy- and resource-efficient, environmentally responsible, and economically viable.

Why the Sustainable Engineering Concentration:
This concentration prepares you to tackle the challenges of the future, from consumer products to renewable energy systems to sustainable building design. Companies are increasingly seeking to be more efficient, use less energy and water, and reduce waste. Bridging your engineering skills with your passion for a sustainable world, you could be the one leading the change.

Career Prospects:
Graduates with sustainability expertise can pursue careers in green technology, renewable energy, and sustainable construction, as well as roles across traditional manufacturing and product design industries. You might also design solar energy systems, consult on energy efficiency for buildings, or work for a design firm helping ensure the products are sustainable. The world needs engineers who think about tomorrow, and this concentration equips you to be part of that change.

Connect With Mechanical Engineering Faculty

Discuss your academic interests, career goals, and research ideas with your professor mentors in and outside of the classroom.

Meet ONU's Faculty

What Can You Do With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Our Mechanical Engineering graduates make a difference all over the world.

ONU’s high-impact education equips you with marketable skills and expert industry knowledge to be career-ready upon graduation. With a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, you can chart your path in various fields, including manufacturing, automotive, oil and gas, aerospace, construction, biomedical technology, and more.

After graduation, you step into an in-demand and fulfilling career as a mechanical engineer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of mechanical engineers will grow by 11% through 2033. The median annual wage of this profession is $102,320, much higher than the national average.

Join our alumni who have successfully launched careers at companies such as:

● Honda
● Ford
● Whirlpool
● NASA
● General Electric
● Lockheed
● Universal Studios
● General Dynamics Land Systems

Dedicated Space for Innovative Exploration

Collaborate with your mentors and peers and experiment with your next ideas at ONU’s James Lehr Kennedy Engineering Building. This 105,000-square-foot facility offers lab and large-scale project space for capstone projects, competitive design projects, and other direct industry engagement. Our supportive environment fosters direct industry engagement and hands-on learning experiences that prepare you for real-world challenges.

The new home of the College of Engineering

The James Lehr Kennedy Engineering Building is a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified building.

A look inside the new James Lehr Kennedy Engineering Building

we have a variety of active and award-winning student organizations

Find Your Community

Studying at ONU is more than just getting a degree — you make lifelong memories with like-minded peers. Embrace opportunities to study abroad, join competition teams and student organizations, and pursue your passions in athletics, music, esports, and more.

You not only apply the knowledge you learn in class but also hone skills in leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurship. These competencies are essential to every successful mechanical engineer.

A one-stop resource for the latest information and expertise in self-propelled vehicles for use on land or sea, in air or space, SAE has more than 90,000 members worldwide who share information and exchange ideas for advancing the engineering of mobility systems. SAE hosts the Baja SAE and SAE Aero Design competitions.
SWE is a professional organization open to all engineers dedicated to raising awareness of the need for more female engineers and encouraging young women to consider majoring in engineering. ONU’s chapter provides support for its female students and hosts social activities.
Become a member of ONU’s Phi Sigma Rho chapter. Created for women in engineering or engineering technology, this group cultivates a sisterhood that upholds the highest standard of personal integrity, strives for academic excellence, and builds friendships that last a lifetime.
Join Tau Beta Pi, a national honorary engineering association for juniors who are in the upper 12.5 percent of their class and seniors who are in the upper 20 percent of their class.
The Join Engineering Council represents the College of Engineering's student body. Members work closely with the dean, faculty members, and student organizations. JEC aims to cultivate greater cooperation and communication between all groups and support a positive on-campus experience.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) enables collaboration, knowledge sharing, career enrichment, and skills development across all engineering disciplines. Its goal is to help the global engineering community develop solutions to benefit lives and livelihoods.
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) is a professional society specializing in the aerospace field. ONU's on-campus chapter gives students many opportunities, including competing in the SAE Aero design competition, where students design, build, and fly a radio-controlled airplane against other universities at locations across the country.
This student organization provides a platform for students passionate about biomedical engineering or biomechanics to enhance their skills through hands-on experience, with a focus on benefiting the wider community.
This organization aims for the stars. The team works to design, build, and fly a high powered rocket, giving students critical hands-on experience with the engineering and operation of these awesome vehicles.

Competition Teams

Want to build a high-power rocket, concrete canoe, radio-controlled airplane or off-road vehicle that can stand up to the competition? Every year ONU teams travel to regional and national competitions where they’re pitted against engineering students from top schools across the U.S. We’re proud of our excellent standings year after year in these competitions.

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ONU thoroughly prepared me for real-world engineering and a top-notch career right from the start. The curriculum is strong and constantly adapting to suit industry’s evolving needs.

Jennifer Smith O’Brian, BSME ’12

Unlock Limitless Possibilities in Mechanical Engineering at ONU

Ohio Northern University's Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) supports your success with immersive learning experiences and personalized mentorship. Become a mechanical engineer and apply your skills to a wide range of industries.

Take the first step toward living the Polar Bear life.

ONU has a streamlined admission process. You can start your journey by:
- Completing your online application
- Submitting official transcripts
ACT and SAT scores are not required.

Learn more about undergraduate admissions.
ONU’s mechanical engineering major is rigorous. Expect to work hard and be challenged. But there’s no need to stress because we offer a supportive and collaborative environment. You can leverage our student services like advising and tutoring. Our faculty and your fellow mechanical engineering students are also here to help you achieve your academic goals.

Mechanical Engineering Degree

Why Major in Mechanical Engineering at ONU?

Facts to Build On

Cultivate Your Professional Network

Discover Your Value-Rich Engineering Path

ABET Accredited

BSME Program Courses and Curriculum

Developing Your Engineering Toolkit

Co-op and Capstone: Where Learning Becomes Real

Forge Your Unique Path With a Concentration

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Aerospace Engineering

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Robotics

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Manufacturing

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Biomedical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Automotive Engineering

Mechanical Engineering (ME) + Sustainable Engineering

Connect With Mechanical Engineering Faculty

What Can You Do With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Our Mechanical Engineering graduates make a difference all over the world.

Dedicated Space for Innovative Exploration

Find Your Community

Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

Phi Sigma Rho

Tau Beta Pi

Joint Engineering Council (JEC)

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Biomedical Science Design Team

High Powered Rocketry Team

Competition Teams

Unlock Limitless Possibilities in Mechanical Engineering at ONU

What are the admission requirements?

Is getting a mechanical engineering degree hard?

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