Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's Degree Program

Engage in cutting-edge research and engineering design projects in this hands-on, ABET-accredited mechanical engineering program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

With a special focus on cold-climate engineering, our program offers unique opportunities to apply do-it-yourself ingenuity and gain specialized training for jobs in Alaska (the top paying state in the nation for mechanical engineers). You can also specialize your mechanical engineering degree in areas such as aerospace or petroleum engineering.

The mechanical engineering program is noted for small class sizes, close mentorship by faculty and a very high pass rate for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Our mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree graduates are actively recruited by engineering firms and governmental agencies in Alaska and around the world.

What Is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineering is the study of objects and systems in motion, from the smallest devices to the largest and most complex machines. It’s one of the broadest of all the engineering fields, encompassing disciplines such as mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science and structural analysis. Mechanical engineering is widely used in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, biotechnology, electronics, mining, information technology and robotics and automation.

What do mechanical engineers do?

Mechanical engineers use their creativity, knowledge and problem-solving skills to turn ideas into reality. They design, develop, build and test all types of machines, from engines and HVAC systems to elevators and escalators. They also work on solutions to environmental problems and are involved in the control and automation of manufacturing systems. Job descriptions and work environments can vary greatly by industry. While some mechanical engineers spend most of their time in the field testing and implementing systems, others work from behind a desk using computers to design and create their work.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Availability:

  • UAF’s main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska

Accredited by:

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)

 

Why Study Mechanical Engineering at UAF?

Mechanical engineering majors at the University of Alaska Fairbanks have opportunities for hands-on learning and research unlike anywhere else in the world. Here are some of the benefits of choosing UAF for your degree in mechanical engineering.

Take part in cutting-edge research

  • As a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering student, you’ll get to take part in activities such as the Alaska Space Grant Program, the UAF Center for Nanosensor Technology, the UAF Automotive Research Center and the UAF Energy Center.
  • Several of our mechanical engineering majors participate annually in rocket launches from Poker Flat, the only university owned and operated sounding rocket range in the world.
  • You can also engage in individual undergraduate research projects. Funding is widely available through URSA and/or OIPC, and many of our mechanical engineering majors have been fully funded to do a wide range of research projects.

Engage in unique hands-on learning opportunities

  • Mechanical engineering majors gain firsthand experience working to solve real-world problems through the senior design project experience. A recent senior project involved designing a solar electric and hot water heating system for a new facility being constructed at Denali National Park.

 
Get specialized training for mechanical engineering jobs Alaska

  • The mechanical engineering degree at UAF emphasizes cold-climate engineering throughout the curriculum, providing specialized skills and knowledge for working in the North. Employers in Alaska prefer mechanical engineering graduates from the state (and particularly UAF) because of their cold-climate knowledge.

 
Access state-of-the-art facilities

  • Our engineering facilities include the Machine Shop, SOECAL Computer Lab, Industrial Process Laboratory, Heat Transfer Laboratory, Industrial Process Laboratory,  Machine Design Laboratory, Thermal Machines Laboratory, Materials Laboratory, Experimental Mechanics Laboratory and the Extreme Environment Laboratory.

 
Complete your bachelor’s and master’s in mechanical engineering in just five years

Explore the Alaska Space Grant Program at UAF

 

What Can You Do With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Our mechanical engineering degree graduates enjoy a very high job employment rate (about 95%). Most graduates go to work in Alaska, in either the energy field or resource development. Others find careers in the Pacific Northwest and internationally.

 

 

Explore Classes for Mechanical Engineering Majors

The mechanical engineering degree includes studies in thermodynamics, computer aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), nanotechnology, statics, dynamics, mathematics, fluid mechanics and the environment. The curriculum provides the necessary tools for a career as a professional mechanical engineer, an engineering consultant, or for a career in advanced studies and research.

View all required classes for the degree in mechanical engineering

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Mechanical Engineering

 

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Take the next step toward earning your degree in mechanical engineering. We have the resources to help you get started.

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Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? We can walk you through the process and help make sure you get the most out of the credits you’ve earned.

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Earn your bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at UAF. Submit your application online today.