Computer-aided engineering
Certificate, undergraduate
Engineering design powered by computation
The computer-aided engineering undergraduate certificate provides focused training in computational tools and methods used in modern mechanical engineering. Designed for undergraduate students, the program builds specialized skills in simulation, modeling and numerical analysis used across engineering industries.
You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools such as finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics and programming for engineering applications. Coursework emphasizes applying computational and algorithmic methods to solve real-world engineering problems while working within practical constraints.
This certificate supports students pursuing careers in computer-aided mechanical engineering and related technical fields, as well as those planning to continue their studies at the graduate level. Graduates are prepared to communicate technical solutions clearly and contribute to data-driven engineering design teams.
Overview
Related Topics
Computational tools for modern engineering
Degree fit
This certificate could be a good fit if you:
- Are interested in computational approaches to mechanical engineering design.
- Want hands-on experience with simulation, modeling and numerical methods.
- Enjoy applying cutting-edge software, programming and algorithms to engineering problems.
- Plan to work in engineering roles that rely on advanced analysis software or pursue graduate study.
Career outcomes
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
U of I’s certificate programs are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships on their own. However, students enrolled in a bachelor's or associate degree program may apply their financial aid and scholarships toward a certificate if they are pursuing both simultaneously.
For more information or to explore funding options, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@uidaho.edu or call 208-885-6312.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
All U of I College of Engineering students, especially undergraduates, participate in hands-on activities through:
- Nationally-ranked Senior Capstone Design Program — Emphasizing the design process and the creation of a thoughtfully engineered, tested and validated outcome or prototype. Interdisciplinary teams showcase their work at our annual Engineering Design EXPO.
- Cooperative Education Program (Co-op) — Get paid up to $20,000 alternating semesters of academic study with paid full-time employment in your field.
- Pursue your passions and build skills industry are looking for — Improving an ever-changing world requires the knowledge of a highly skilled engineering community. The University of Idaho College of Engineering Professional Skills Academy develops graduates with expert technical and professional skills who are ready to lead a competitive workplace.
- Idaho’s only Grand Challenge Scholars Program — Preparing undergraduates to solve the biggest challenges facing society in the 21st century.
- Research and funding opportunities — Grow your confidence in a laboratory setting, gain experience with research proposal development and project management, and collaborate extensively with peers and faculty in research projects that make an impact.
- Internships and Summer programs — Vandal engineers spend their summers in paid internship, fellowship and research mentorship programs. Explore opportunities with leading industry, national research centers and more.
Clubs and organizations
Our college offers 20+ clubs and organizations tied to international and national engineering organizations, including national competition teams.
Clubs related to your major include:
- Cyber Defense Club
- CyberForce Competition Team
- Humanitarian Engineering Corps (HEC)
- Polymorphic Games Studio
- National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
- Robotics Club
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- Tau Beta Pi - Engineering Honor Society (TBP)
Application information
Admission criteria for undergraduate certificates are the same as those for U of I undergraduate degree programs. View our admission requirements to learn more.
Undergraduate certificate application process
Students interested in adding a certificate to their bachelor’s or associate degree program should speak with their academic advisor.
Students interested in earning an undergraduate certificate as a standalone program should contact the Admissions Office at 208-885-6326 for information on how to apply.