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College of Arts & Sciences

Mechanical Engineering, B.S.

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Why pursue a Mechanical Engineering, B.S. degree at North Central College?

Mechanical engineers design, analyze, manufacture and maintain mechanical systems. They work with materials, manufacturing processes, sensors and actuators, embedded processors and robot control systems. North Central College has the only ABET-accredited program in west suburban Chicago, and it is rooted in hands-on learning using the engineering method, the latest engineering design and simulation software, making parts on 3D printers and programming in Python. You will learn the communication skills necessary to be successful in the profession. At North Central, our focus is on automation and robotics, with emphasis on sustainability, access and enhancing quality of life. A career in mechanical engineering is one of continuous learning. By practicing problem-solving, team projects and reporting your findings, you’ll be ready to take on the technology industry. And with a degree accredited by ABET, the preeminent accrediting body in the U.S. for STEM disciplines, you’ll be prepared for career success when it comes to innovation, emerging technology, and public welfare and safety.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

  • Advancing in mechanics, manufacturing and systems
  • Designing and developing products and machinery on a local or global scale
  • Addressing societal needs through energy efficiency, biomechanics and robotic solutions

then a degree in MECHANICAL ENGINEERING might be for you.

Why study mechanical engineering at North Central College? 

In the Classroom

Coursework topics: 

  • Applied statistics
  • Basic electronics
  • Calculus
  • Chemistry
  • Classical dynamics
  • Classical physics
  • Differential equations & linear algebra
  • Embedded processors
  • Engineering design
  • Engineering finance
  • Engineering statistics
  • Failure analysis
  • Independent projects
  • Manufacturing processes
  • Materials science
  • Mechanical design
  • Mechanical simulations
  • Professional ethics
  • Python
  • Robotics
  • Technical writing

Beyond the Classroom

As a mechanical engineer major, you can: 

  • Complete internships at nearby research labs such as Argonne National Laboratory or Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.
  • Study in state-of-the-art facilities equipped to accommodate the most sophisticated hardware, software and other sustainable technology.
  • Pursue your research interests anywhere in the world by applying for a Richter Grant.
  • Present your original research findings at local, regional and national conferences such as the National Conferences on Undergraduate Research or North Central’s own Rall Symposium.

Program Educational Objectives 

Program educational objectives as defined by ABET are “broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years after graduation. Program educational objectives are based on the needs of the program’s constituencies.” The Program Educational Objectives of the North Central College Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering degree aims to support our graduates’ ability to:

  • Program Education Objective 1: Demonstrate competence and creativity in applying engineering knowledge to improve living conditions for humanity.
  • Program Education Objective 2: Driven by ethical decision making, and integrating professional communication, and teamwork, develop solutions to provide opportunities for diverse individuals and groups worldwide.
  • Program Education Objective 3: Motivate students to engage in lifelong learning to enhance their quality of life and professional success as well as better serving society.

Student Outcomes 

Student outcomes describe what students are expected to know and be able to do by the time of graduation. These relate to the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that students acquire as they progress through the program. The Student Outcomes of the North Central College Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering degree describe the abilities of our graduates:

  • Student Outcome 1: an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics.
  • Student Outcome 2: an 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.
  • Student Outcome 3: an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.
  • Student Outcome 4: an 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 societal contexts.
  • Student Outcome 5: an 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.
  • Student Outcome 6: an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze, and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions.
  • Student Outcome 7: an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Program Enrollment and Graduation Data

Academic YearEnrollment Year - 1stEY 2ndEY 3rdEY 4thTotal EnrollmentDegrees Awarded
2023/20241519212580 
2022/2023221819168519
2021/2022252129169116
2020/2021182323 64 
2019/20202029  49 

 

Mechanical Engineering, B.S.

Mechanical Engineering offers a mix of mechanical design, simulations, robotics and manufacturing processes. Our graduates are prepared to be employed in a wide range of companies and research laboratories.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

A minimum of 45 credit hours of Engineering coursework to include:

Core Courses

A minimum of 30 credit hours of Mathematics and Science coursework to include:

Notes:

If students do not meet minimum the Mathematics and Science requirements, additional coursework may need to be taken.

Courses below MATH 151 do not apply to the required credit hours in Mathematics and Science.

*Students who do not place into MATH 151 must successfully complete the course prerequisite, MATH 140.

 

Invest in your future

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Don’t make it alone. North Central’s admission and financial aid team is here to help you design a financial aid solution that works best for you and your family.

Merit scholarships, grants, loans, campus employment - these are just some of the resources available to you. Over 95 percent of students and 100 percent of all eligible students receive aid. Let our team partner with you in finding the best value for your education.

Learn more about financial aid and costs for North Central College

Apply to North Central College

The first step to becoming a North Central student is reading the application instructions specific to you. Find out everything you need to know about applying by selecting the group you belong to below.

Mechanical Engineering Student Profile

Abbi and Maddie Barickman '25

Meet Abbi and Maddi Barickman, identical twins who are not only winning on the volleyball court but also thriving in the field of mechanical engineering at North Central College. Drawn to North Central by the excellent engineering program and the opportunity to compete in athletics, the sisters are making the most of their college experience. Whether conducting research on alternative energy storage systems or balancing academics and athletics, Abbi and Maddi exemplify dedication and excellence. Explore the dynamic intersection of sports and academics at North Central College through the inspiring story of the Barickman twins.

Abbi and Maddi Barickman
Abbi (top) and Maddi (bottom) Barickman