Idaho State University

What you'll study

The Mechanical Engineering bachelor's curriculum combines fundamental engineering science with practical design and laboratory experience. Early years focus on mathematics, physics and introductory engineering topics; later years introduce specialised mechanical subjects and a design capstone.

• Core science and maths: calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra, physics for engineers.
• Engineering fundamentals: statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics.
• Specialist mechanical subjects: heat transfer, machine design, control systems, computational methods, manufacturing processes, materials engineering.
• Laboratories and hands‑on courses: experimental mechanics, fluid and thermal labs, materials testing, machining and fabrication labs, instrumentation and measurement.
• Computer and design tools: CAD/CAM, finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics introductions, programming for engineers.
• Design sequence and capstone: multi‑term team design projects culminating in a senior capstone where students define, analyse, prototype and communicate a mechanical engineering solution.
• General education and professional skills: communication, ethics, project management and elective choices to broaden technical or interdisciplinary knowledge.

The programme is structured to meet accreditation criteria, providing preparation for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and for eventual professional engineering licensure. Students are encouraged to take part in undergraduate research, internships and industry partnerships to complement coursework.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes college‑preparatory algebra, geometry, precalculus or calculus, and physics.

• Academic prerequisites: high school calculus or equivalent and a physics course with laboratory are expected.
• Africa/International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications are considered; proof of English language proficiency may be required.
• Admissions indicators: competitive algebra/calculus grades and coursework in physics are important; admissions may also consider overall academic record, recommendation letters and relevant extracurricular experience (e.g. robotics, shop projects).
• Transfer students: articulation of prior college coursework in calculus, physics and introductory engineering subjects is standard; course equivalency evaluations determine transfer credit.

Idaho State University typically offers advising to help admitted students place into the correct sequence of calculus and engineering courses and to plan co‑op or internship experiences.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering pursue diverse careers across industry, government and research. Common roles include:

• mechanical design engineer, developing components and systems for products and machinery;
• manufacturing and process engineer, improving production systems and quality control;
• thermal and fluid systems engineer, working on HVAC, energy systems, engines and pumps;
• controls and automation engineer, integrating sensors, actuators and control algorithms;
• materials and reliability engineer, selecting and testing materials for performance and durability;
• project engineer or technical consultant in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, medical devices, and defence.

Many graduates enter industry directly, while others pursue postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) or professional registration. The curriculum supports preparation for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and subsequent professional engineer (PE) licensure where applicable. Practical experience through internships or co‑op placements commonly enhances employability.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a mechanical engineering programme with abundant hands‑on learning opportunities, including teaching labs, machine shops and access to computational resources. The faculty include applied researchers and practitioners who supervise senior design projects and undergraduate research.

• Hands‑on facilities: labs for thermal‑fluid experiments, materials testing and fabrication enable practical skills in measurement, prototyping and testing.
• Industry connections: regional industry relationships and internship channels help students gain workplace experience and prepare for local and national employment markets.
• Supportive environment: academic advising, tutoring and student engineering organisations provide peer support and leadership opportunities.
• Location advantages: the university’s setting supports access to regional manufacturing, energy and outdoor‑oriented engineering projects, which can inform applied student work.

Prospective students should contact Idaho State University’s admissions and the Department of Mechanical Engineering for details on curriculum planning, laboratory tours and pathways to internships or research involvement.