In our Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program at St. Ambrose University, you’ll focus on the design, analysis, and optimization of mechanical systems and devices. Through theoretical coursework, hands-on experiences, and practical applications, you'll cultivate the knowledge, skills, and creativity to tackle intricate engineering challenges. Our emphasis on applying engineering principles prepares you with a versatile and interdisciplinary education tailored for success in mechanical engineering.
What is a Mechanical Engineering degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BS in Mechanical Engineering?
Earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering offers diverse career opportunities in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing. Graduates develop strong problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities, which makes them able to address complex challenges and drive innovation.
One-on-one learning experience
Our student-focused approach ensures personalized teaching and mentoring. Our faculty prioritize student learning and growth.
Accessible minors to pair with major
Mechanical engineering students commonly minor in Statistics/Mathematics or Computer Science for a well-rounded education.
Small class sizes
Our faculty’s top priority is teaching, with typical classes ranging from 15-20 students, and no more than 30 per class.
Innovative design labs
Explore 3D printing, laser engraving, vacuforming, and more in our prototyping lab, design center, and makerspace.
Hands-on experimentation
Explore thermodynamics, fluid flow, and heat transfer with a subsonic wind tunnel, hydraulics workbench, and solid-body tests.
Accredited program
SAU’s Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org.
What you’ll learn in your Mechanical Engineering program
You will learn about identifying problems and designing a solution. The program will provide a strong understanding of natural laws in order to begin problem identification. Quantitative reasoning skills, tradeoff evaluation, and creativity are just a few of the skills that you’ll gain in the program. You will also use modern software and tools as a part of the program, which augment and amplify their technical skills.
- Application of fundamentals of thermodynamics to power, refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems
- Students design, build, and compete in an autonomous robotics competition against their classmates
- Students learn and implement the engineering design process to identify, formulate, design, and solve an engineering problem
- Work in groups in conjunction with a local company, institution, or on-campus entity to design, prototype, and analyze a mechanical engineering design project
- Professional development that requires students to earn a minimum number of points, acquired through participation events
Explore Mechanical Engineering courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 129 credits.
- You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 33 credits in Math and Science, 24 credits in Engineering, 30 credits in Mechanical Engineering, 3 credits in a technical elective, and 1 capstone course.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ME 315 | Fluid Mechanics | 3 credits |
| ME 350 | Machine Design | 3 credits |
| ME 412 | Applied Thermodynamics | 3 credits |
| ME 415 | Mechatronics | 3 credits |
| ME 490 | WI-Senior Design Seminar | 3 credits |
How much does a degree in BS in Mechanical Engineering cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,917 | $37,833 |
| Housing** | $4,140 | $8,280 |
| Food*** | $2,750 | $5,500 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,947 | $51,893 |
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
The St. Ambrose University Mechanical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
The St. Ambrose University Mechanical Engineering Program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s General Criteria and Program Criteria for Mechanical Engineering.
With ABET accreditation, students, employers and the society we serve can be confident that a program meets the quality standards that produce graduates prepared to enter a global workforce.
How does SAU support Mechanical Engineering students?
Faculty are involved with students beyond the classroom. All Engineering students have a faculty member as their academic advisor from the start of their first semester. They meet every semester to provide feedback resources for students. There is also a blend of industrial and academic experience among our faculty members. We have individuals who are active in the American Society of Engineering Education as well as other American Society of Mechanical Engineering. We also have faculty members who actively contract with engineering companies in the area.
Mechanical engineering faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for BS in Mechanical Engineering?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
3K Go For The Gold Scholarship
Industrial Access, Inc. will award a $3,000 scholarship to one student that is or will be enrolled in an engineering school or field of study. Students should display a passion for the engineering field, have a good academic record in high school and have significant volunteer activity. Learn more about the 3K Go For The Gold Scholarship
$500 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Scholarship
This annual scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior female student who has a GPA of at least 3.0. Engineering faculty select the recipient.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Ioans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Focus on your career. Not debt.
"I always wanted to go to college but finances were an issue. With the Ambrose Advantage, I don't have to worry. My tuition is paid and I'm getting a good education."
-Alexis Stovall, Davenport, Iowa
What’s on campus for Mechanical Engineering students?
There are several campus clubs and organizations run through the Engineering program that students have the opportunity to participate in. We have the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the Engineering Club, and the Design Hive, all advised by various faculty members. These groups provide a place for engineering students to connect with others in the major and explore what the major has to offer.
Internships shaping success
“My internships and professors really made my experience at Ambrose fantastic. The internships that I had while in school, prepped me for a successful career in aerospace. Additionally, all of the professors that I had, especially those in math and engineering, never hesitated to help you out when you were stuck, and I think that this is something that made Ambrose special.”
-Piper Thomas ‘23, BS in Mechanical Engineering
What are the general admission requirements for a BS in Mechanical Engineering?
Ready to become a Bee? Here are the admissions requirements for our Mechanical Engineering program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Mechanical Engineering degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Mechanical Engineering program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Mechanical design engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Software engineer
- Project engineer
- Controls engineer
Potential employment settings
- Manufacturing
- Design firms
- Consulting firms
- Machine integrators
- Automation and robotics
Traits of a Mechanical Engineering graduate
- Innovative
- Analytical
- Detail-oriented
- Creative
- Team-oriented
Industry facts
- Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 10 percent by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- The median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $96,310 in May 2022.
For more information on mechanical engineering employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
News and events at SAU
Form, function, and freestyle: Khalil Ruiz engineers his future as a design engineer
When Khalil Ruiz ‘25 arrived at St. Ambrose University, he came in with one goal in mind: to become a mechanical engineer.
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Finding her future: Katey Harrison’s journey to becoming a design engineer
When Katey Harrison ‘25 arrived at St. Ambrose University, she thought she had her future mapped out.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
