What is Mechanical Engineering?
Mechanical engineers use basic science to design and manufacture complex engineering systems, which requires the application of physical and mechanical principles to the development of machines, energy conversion systems, materials and equipment for guidance and control. Work in this broad field of engineering requires a thorough knowledge of mathematics, physics, chemistry, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mass transfer, electricity, manufacturing processes and economics.
The mechanical engineering curriculum is based on a common core of engineering courses taken in the first two years. Students spend their third year in further study of the fundamental courses, and their fourth year in tailoring their studies to their own interests by selecting courses in controls and systems analysis, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, mechanical design or thermodynamics. Students can either prepare for graduate study in mechanical engineering or obtain a broad background for entering engineering practice at the bachelor’s level.
Academic Planning Resources
The documents below are for reference only and do not replace the guidance of an Academic Advisor. Learn more about meeting with an advisor.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Worksheet
View our curriculum at a glance. This includes the pre-requisites and course subjects.
Sample Academic Plan for First Year Students
View the sample four year academic plan for incoming First Year Students/Students who entered as Freshman with UC Davis.
Sample Academic Plan for Transfer Students
View the sample two year academic plan for incoming First Year Students/Students who entered as Freshman with UC Davis.
Senior Design Capstone Requirement
Students in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering are required to complete a senior design capstone in their final year of study as part of their graduation requirements. These courses provide an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge of the primary principles and concepts of engineering in an experiential learning based environment. This series is completed during the final Winter and Spring quarter, with the final projects being presented at the yearly Engineering Design Showcase, which is hosted by the College of Engineering.
- Mechanical Systems Design - EME 185AB
- Pre-requisites:
• EME 050 (completed SO/JR year)
• EME 150A (completed in JR Year or by Fall quarter of SR Year)
• EME 165 (completed in JR Year or by Fall quarter of SR Year)
Description: The mechanical engineering design process and its use in design of engineering systems. The sole objective of the design project course is to provide students with an opportunity to use their own skills and knowledge to solve an engineering design problem. This experience will help students make the transition from school to work and bridge the gap between theory and applications.