Undergraduate Major Mechanical Engineering (BS)

You'll gain a thorough understanding of mechanical systems, and be prepared to enter the engineering field in the areas of advanced materials, robotics, thermal-fluid systems, power and energy systems, propulsion systems, manufacturing, and more. 

SNHU has modelled its engineering programs in accordance with the international CDIO initiative, "an innovative educational framework for producing the next generation of engineers that stresses engineering fundamentals set in the context of Conceiving, Designing, Implementing, and Operating real-world systems and products." CDIO is a prominent engineering educational philosophy and is intended to achieve a fine balance between project-based, hands-on learning and traditional, theory-based engineering education. No matter your interest, the program will help you develop the necessary skills to begin your chosen career.

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Program Educational Objectives

The following statements describe the career and professional accomplishments that the BS Mechanical Engineering program is preparing graduates to achieve within a few years of graduation:

• Professional careers in Mechanical Engineering or other disciplines utilizing the knowledge and problem-solving skills they developed in the SNHU Mechanical Engineering program;
• Increasing responsibility in technical and/or management areas;
• Recognition or affirmation from their managers and peers as effective and valued members of their work team;
• Increasing discernment and sensitivity in the consideration of global and societal contexts and consequences when making engineering decisions;
• Expansion of their professional, personal, and interpersonal skills and engagement in lifelong learning activities, including post-graduate education for some graduates;
• Involvement with professional and other service activities that contribute to industry and society.

Internships & Outcomes

Graduates from SNHU’s Mechanical Engineering program will have a thorough understanding of both the technical and economic issues faced by engineers and engineering projects. Students will be well prepared to enter the engineering field in an entry-level position, but will also have a firm grasp on the skills necessary to succeed at all levels.

SNHU embraces a multidisciplinary approach to education, and encourages opportunities for students to gain new skills and perspective by working with students in other disciplines, such as aeronautical engineering or electrical and computer engineering. Engineering is a field that spans many industries, and SNHU is committed to giving students the resources they need to prepare to enter any of them.

Program Outcomes

The following statements describe what students are expected to know and be able to do upon completion of the BS Mechanical Engineering program:

1. Ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
2. Ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors.
3. Ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
4. Ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and social contexts.
5. Ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives.
6. Ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
7. Ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Courses To Prepare You For Your Life & Career

SNHU's bachelor's in mechanical engineering program includes:

• General education courses
• Degree-specific courses

General Education Program

SNHU's required general education program, known as The Commons, aims to guide you toward success in not only your academic career, but your personal and professional life too.

Throughout the curriculum, you'll gain some of the most in-demand skills in today's workplace, including:

• Research and information analysis
• Diverse audience communication
• Critical thinking and ethical problem solving
• Leadership, emotional intelligence and collaboration

This expertise will prove practical, transferable and invaluable as you grow in your career and contribute positively to society.

Beyond foundational skill development, the general education program also provides the benefit of allowing you to explore a wide range of fields outside of your intended major.

University Accreditation

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.

This program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Student and graduate data can be found below:

Program Enrollments (Fall 2023)
Mechanical Engineering (BS): 122

Graduates (Academic Year 2022-2023)
Mechanical Engineering (BS): 19