Academics & Admissions
Through deep scholarship, hands-on learning, and research experiences, the Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) works to uncover important societal benefits in the areas of sustainability, mobility, and human health. With an academically rigorous yet practically oriented approach, we follow Stanford University’s founding commitment to excellence: to produce “cultured and useful citizens in the service of humanity.”
What is Mechanical Engineering?
One of the most diverse engineering disciplines, mechanical engineering is rooted in the study of objects and systems in motion. Stanford’s multi-disciplinary ME curriculum focuses on areas including sustainability, product design, and biomedical engineering using a range of methodologies, from design thinking, computational simulation and control systems to multi-scale approaches that stretch from the nanoscale to complex biological and mechanical systems.
The Farm is home to an impressive array of spaces where students and other community members can try their hand at various forms of creation. From embroidering to silversmithing to sculpting – and much more – Stanford provides space to explore.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs
Designing and manufacturing everything from medical devices to jet engines, mechanical engineers are in demand in today’s society. Academics in Stanford’s Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) focus on preparing learners of all levels for hands-on roles in this expanding area of engineering.
Undergraduate
Mechanical Engineering’s undergraduate degree program provides students with a balance of intellectual and practical experiences to address a variety of societal needs. With a Stanford Mechanical Engineering degree, students are ready for entry-level mechanical engineering work or for graduate study in engineering or associated disciplines demanding a fundamental engineering foundation.
Coterminal
Stanford undergraduates may work simultaneously toward a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Students may apply for admission to this coterminal program following the completion of 12 full tuition undergraduate quarters.
Graduate
At the graduate level, the Mechanical Engineering program aligns academic course work with research to prepare scholars in specialized areas within the field. Graduate-level programs include master’s, doctoral, and Engineer degrees.
Stories & Voices
Learn more about Mechanical Engineering from our faculty, students, alumni, and staff.
Aaron Brown
"I think I first became curious about space and science in middle school."
Read Aaron's Story
Joseph Towles
"I was in high school the first time I heard the word “engineer” used separately from conducting a train."
Read Joseph's Story
Xiaolin Zheng
"Two of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years are the importance of taking advantage of opportunities, and the value of learning to love what you’re doing."
Read Xiaolin's Story
Student Funding & Financial Aid
Stanford is committed to providing a comprehensive need-based financial aid program that makes it financially possible for admitted undergraduate students to attend. At the graduate level, Mechanical Engineering students have several funding options, including fellowships, assistantships, and loans.
Mechanical Engineering Research
Our faculty and research labs are making exciting breakthroughs in areas including biomedicine, computational engineering, design, energy, and multi-scale engineering.
Mechanical Engineering Careers
Where can a Stanford Mechanical Engineering degree take you? Stanford’s BEAM (Bridging Education, Ambition, and Meaningful Work) program, meetups, labs, career coaching, and job boards can help launch your engineering career.
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