Dartmouth College

What you'll study

The Engineering Sciences programme integrates core engineering fundamentals with a liberal-arts curriculum, giving you both depth in technical topics and breadth across the humanities and social sciences. Early study builds a foundation in calculus, linear algebra, multivariable mathematics, classical mechanics and electromagnetism, alongside introductory computing and programming.

• Core engineering topics: dynamics and mechanics of materials, thermodynamics and heat transfer, fluid mechanics, circuits and electronics, systems and control theory, materials science and manufacturing principles.
• Computational methods: numerical methods, scientific programming, data analysis and simulation techniques applied to engineering problems.
• Design and practice: project-based design studios and laboratory courses emphasising rapid prototyping, CAD, fabrication, instrumentation and interdisciplinary team work.
• Capstone and research: an individual or team senior capstone project and opportunities to undertake mentored research with faculty at the Thayer School, often spanning biomedical, environmental, energy, robotics and autonomous systems applications.
• Complementary study: coursework in ethics, engineering economics, communication and entrepreneurship alongside electives in Dartmouth’s liberal‑arts departments to encourage multidisciplinary perspectives.

The programme’s structure supports hands-on learning (maker spaces, labs and design studios), collaborative projects, and the option to pursue minors or dual concentrations across the College.

Entry requirements

Admission to Dartmouth is competitive and based on a holistic review of the whole application. For prospective Engineering Sciences students, typical academic preparation includes:

• A strong secondary‑school diploma with emphasis on mathematics (including calculus where available) and physics; chemistry and advanced mathematics courses are advantageous.
• Evidence of quantitative aptitude and problem‑solving skills demonstrated through coursework, projects or extracurricular engagement (robotics, coding, research, engineering clubs, etc.).
• Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation (usually from teachers in maths/science), and a personal statement that conveys motivation for engineering and ability to engage with both technical and liberal‑arts study.
• Supplementary materials such as project portfolios or descriptions of independent technical work can strengthen an application but are not typically required.

Applicants should consult Dartmouth’s admissions office for current guidance on any standardised testing policies and application procedures.

Career prospects

Graduates of Engineering Sciences leave equipped for a wide range of careers thanks to the programme’s combination of technical training and liberal‑arts skills. Common career trajectories include:

• Engineering roles in sectors such as software and computing, aerospace, energy and utilities, biomedical devices and biotechnology, manufacturing and materials, and environmental engineering.
• Technical product development, systems engineering, embedded systems and control, robotics and automation roles in industry.
• Graduate study in engineering, computer science, medicine, business or law; many students progress to master’s and doctoral programmes, including options within the Thayer School of Engineering.
• Careers in management consulting, finance, policy, and entrepreneurship where quantitative reasoning, design thinking and communication skills are valued.
• Research and development positions in universities, government labs and private sector R&D groups.

The programme’s emphasis on design projects, internships and undergraduate research helps graduates develop practical experience and professional networks that support entry into these fields.

Why study at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth offers a distinctive engineering education through close collaboration between undergraduate students and the Thayer School of Engineering, combining small class sizes, hands‑on design studios and access to research opportunities. The College’s liberal‑arts environment encourages interdisciplinary study, so engineering students can complement technical training with courses in economics, policy, the humanities and management.

• Project‑based learning: extensive opportunities for team design projects, maker spaces and fabrication labs make practical experience a central element of the curriculum.
• Research access: undergraduates can work with faculty on research across fields from biomedical engineering to sustainable energy and robotics.
• Flexible academic calendar: Dartmouth’s academic planning and advising support study abroad, internships and curricular experimentation while completing an accredited engineering curriculum.
• Supportive community: small cohorts, close faculty advising and a strong alumni network help students transition into employment or graduate study.

Overall, Dartmouth’s Engineering Sciences programme is well suited to students who want a rigorous technical education combined with the intellectual breadth and opportunities of a liberal‑arts college.