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Undergraduate Education

Explore The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Here, you’ll dive into hands-on learning that brings engineering to life. Our programs blend real-world problem solving with cutting-edge tools like robotics, advanced computing and smart materials, so you can build the skills to create, innovate and make an impact. Whether you’re interested in cars, aircraft, energy systems or robotics, you’ll gain the experience and knowledge to shape the future as an Aggie Engineer.
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Explore our Majors

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Aerospace Science and Engineering

Aerospace engineers apply scientific knowledge to the design, manufacture and operation of bodies and vehicles influenced by aerodynamic forces.

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Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers apply physical and mechanical principles to the development of machines, energy conversion systems, materials and equipment for guidance and control.

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Hands-On Courses

Two students discussing equipment at a workstation, with a screen displaying data.
A hand adjusting wires on a circuit board with a keyboard in the background.
An oscilloscope displaying a waveform, with various buttons and knobs.
Person in blue lab coat and hat points to a graph on a wall.
Two students and an instructor work together on a computer in a classroom setting.
Two individuals in blue lab coats maneuvering large sound equipment in a lab setting.
Two individuals working together on a project in a workshop, focusing on a metal frame.
A person operating a milling machine, working with precision tools in a well-lit workshop.
Drilling machines in a workshop with metal frames and safety guards, focused on tools.
A spacious workshop filled with industrial printing machines and bright natural light.
A CNC machine in a well-lit workshop, featuring a computer interface and metallic components.

EME 108 — Measurement Systems

  • This course introduces the principles of measurement theory, data analysis and bases for statistical comparisons. Through a series of laboratory experiments, students explore the principles and applications of solid mechanics, dynamics and vibrations.
  • This course is traditionally completed during the senior year for Mechanical Engineering majors and Aerospace Science and Engineering majors.

EME 109 — Experimental Methods for Thermal Fluids

  • This course involves experiments to illustrate principles of thermal-fluid systems. Lectures will cover certain aspects of the experiments as well as statistical and uncertainty analysis of data, statistical design of experiments and measurement devices. Experiments may involve thermodynamic cycles, combustion, compressible flows and incompressible flows.
  • This course is traditionally completed during the senior year for Mechanical Engineering majors and Aerospace Science and Engineering majors.

EME 050 — Manufacturing Processes

  • This course introduces common manufacturing processes including design for manufacturing and assembly, mechanical drawings, manufacturing instructions and computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD and CAM). Through the Diane Bryant Engineering Student Design Center, students learn various fabrication techniques and make use of CNC Mills, Lathes, and Band Saws.
  • This course is taken by Mechanical Engineering majors during sophomore or junior year.

Hands-On Experiences

Student Clubs and Organizations

Students in the College of Engineering have multiple ways to get involved on campus and gain valuable professional development skills.

Miteza and Araya wearing safety goggles work together in the UC Davis ESDC

Faculty Labs and Research Centers

Students are encouraged to explore research with faculty across the UC Davis campus. Whether that is to gain valuable knowledge for post graduate studies, gain experience for internship opportunities, or purely out of interest in a specific topic.

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Undergraduate Experience

Aggie Engineers dive into hands-on learning, tackle real-world challenges and discover how to make a difference for people and the planet. We are a collaborative, inclusive community that believes the best solutions come from working together.

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For questions regarding admissions, visit the UC Davis admissions website. For questions regarding financial aid and tuition, visit the UC Davis financial aid website.

Ready to be an Aggie Engineer?

Head to MyAdmissions to check your admission status and find your next steps. Submit your Statement of Intent to Register, or SIR, by May 1 for first-year students and June 1 for transfer students. Begin your official UC Davis journey!

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