Mechanical Engineering Technology Bachelor of Science Degree

In our mechanical engineering technology BS, you'll study the foundations of mechanics, materials, and energy. You will learn technical skills such as: 

• Computer-aided design (CAD)
• Generative design
• Materials characterization
• Mechanical system analysis and design
• Thermal-fluid system design
• Product design and development

You also will learn to apply these principles and skills to the various fields of mechanical engineering technology--such as product and machine design, power generation, energy management, and advanced manufacturing--through laboratories and design projects. Full-time students gain valuable industrial experience through the required cooperative education program. Students may select an option in robotics and automation or product design.

What Can You Do with a Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree?

The mechanical engineering technology major develops well-rounded engineers as lifelong learners with the ability to adapt, grow, and succeed in a highly competitive workplace. The required cooperative education experience enables students to be well-prepared to step into professional positions after graduation and be immediately productive in jobs that include product development, machine design, and analysis, alternative energy, manufacturing engineering, or systems engineering.

Mechanical Engineering Technology Curriculum

RIT’s degree in mechanical engineering technology offers select concentrations in one of the following areas: 

• Alternative energy
• Heating/ventilating/air conditioning (HVAC)
• Machine design and analysis
• Materials engineering
• Product development
• Thermofluids engineering

The curriculum offers some flexibility in enabling you to customize your own concentration based on your career objectives or personal interests.

Options

The mechanical engineering technology major offers two options that enable you to further develop an area of expertise.

• The product design option allows for specialized study in all engineering aspects of product ideation, innovation, design confirmation, and design validation. 
• The robotics and automation option allows for specialized study in all engineering aspects of industrial and collaborative (cobots) robotics, along with automation/controls. 

Careers in Mechanical Engineering Technology

A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering technology can lead to a range of exciting careers in mechanical engineering technology, including positions such as:

• Mechanical engineer 
• Digital manufacturing engineer 
• Process engineer 
• Quality engineer 
• Algorithm engineer
• Sales engineer

Graduates are in demand, and companies such as GE, General Motors, Stanley Black & Decker, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and many others seek out our graduates.

High-Performance Teams and Professional Organizations

Many mechanical engineering students participate in high-octane performance teams, including the RIT Formula SAE Racing Team, the SAE Aerodesign Club, the RIT Baja SAE Team, RIT SAE Clean Snowmobile Team, and the Human-Powered Vehicle Competition team. They are also encouraged to participate in the student chapters of professional societies such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Engineering vs. Engineering Technology

Two dynamic areas of study, both with outstanding outcomes rates. Which do you choose?

What’s the difference between engineering and engineering technology? It’s a question we’re asked all the time. While there are subtle differences in the course work between the two, choosing a major in engineering vs. engineering technology is more about identifying what you like to do and how you like to do it.

Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees

Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

• Mechanical Engineering Technology/Mechatronics and Mechanical Systems MS: Fast-track your success with this dynamic accelerated dual-degree pathway in mechanical engineering technology BS and mechatronics and mechanical systems MS. Drive the design, development, and implementation of everything from high-performance automobiles (electric and autonomous driving) to aerospace systems (rockets, jets, drones) to bioengineered devices, energy technologies, and consumer products. Deep dive into mechanical or manufacturing engineering and round out your tool belt with a career-ready business and management skillset from the mechatronics and mechanical systems MS. 
• +1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.