Mechanical Engineering

Career-ready training in aerospace, robotics and renewable energy

Design processes and machines to power industry and manufacture products for everyday use, including renewable fuels, aeronautics, robotics and automation, engines and nuclear and industrial power generation.

University of Idaho Department of Mechanical Engineering offers undergraduate and graduate programs on campus in Moscow, and distance learning graduate programs through Engineering Outreach.  

Customize your degree for the career you want

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a modern curriculum rooted in core mechanical engineering principles, ensuring you're workforce-ready and graduate with the knowledge and skills employers need.

Earn certificates in aerospace, robotics and more while building expertise to prepare for careers in high-demand industries. With a focus on experiential learning, team-based project work, professional skills development, research and applied projects, you'll be prepared to tackle evolving technological challenges.

Nationally ranked for infusing real-world experiences into engineering education

The Interdisciplinary Capstone Design Program starts when you’re a senior, where you’ll take on your first applied engineering experience, working in teams on industry-sponsored projects. Projects are presented at the Engineering Design EXPO and judged by industry experts. Ranked Top 7 In the Nation for Infusing Real-World Experiences into Engineering Education by the National Academy of Engineering, the program is highly valued by industry partners and employers.

Comprehensive aerospace training

A mechanical engineering degree is ideally suited to prepare you for the growing aerospace industry, an appealing career field for many Vandal engineers. Graduates go on to work with industry leaders like NASA, Boeing, Blue Origin, SpaceX, all branches of the military and many specialized aircraft companies and manufacturers.  

University of Idaho’s Department of Mechanical Engineering offers you comprehensive training in aerospace engineering topics. Courses and certificate programs are intended to prepare you to conquer a broad range of engineering problems. 

Learn more about the Aerospace Certificate program

Experiential learning and advanced research 

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is dedicated to innovative research and education across a wide array of fields, including aerospace robotics, energy systems, mechanical design, materials science and advanced manufacturing processes. Faculty and students collaborate on cutting-edge projects, advancing knowledge and technology. The department fosters an environment that encourages hands-on research, preparing students for real-world engineering challenges. 

Get involved. Make friends. Find success.

Connect with others who share your interests and values and demonstrate skills beyond the classroom. Our college offers 20+ clubs and organizations tied to international and national engineering organizations, national competition teams, mentorship programs and professional skills programs.

ABET Accreditation

The Mechanical Engineering B.S.M.E. program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.

Learn more about accreditation