Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics
A Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in MEAM fuses rigorous theoretical foundations with immersive, real-world lab work and interactive, design-centered projects. From day one, you’ll collaborate in cutting-edge facilities by solving authentic engineering challenges that bridge classroom concepts with industry and research applications. Customize your path by choosing one of three concentrations to develop the specialized skills that will propel you into careers at the forefront of innovation.
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in MEAM consists of 37 course units (CUs) that blend core theory with specialized study. You can choose one of three concentrations, each designed designed to give you deeper expertise in your chosen field. For full course descriptions, visit the Penn Course Catalog, and for a complete breakdown of requirements and electives, see the Undergraduate Handbook.
Maximum of three 100-level courses in this section (including programming course).
Undergraduates
Student-to-teacher ratio
Median Salary After Graduation
As the capstone of Penn’s practice-integrated mechanical engineering curriculum, the two-semester senior design sequence challenges students to bring theory, skills, general knowledge, and inventive energy to bear on substantial engineering problems. There is no “typical” project and the variety is always surprising: some projects lead to marketable products; some explore a theoretical principle; some are just for fun. But taken together, they reflect the breadth and diversity of mechanical engineering.
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Tailor your MEAM experience with flexible pathways: pursue a dual degree, deepen your expertise with a MEAM minor, or jumpstart graduate studies early through submatriculation.
Combine your engineering degree with another undergraduate program at Penn through our dual-degree options, which integrate coursework across two schools and award both degrees upon completion.
You can minor in MEAM with the completion of at least six approved MEAM course units with a grade of C or better.
Penn undergraduates may begin an engineering master’s program while still completing their undergraduate program via the submatriculation application procedure.
The Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) Design and Prototyping Laboratories provides students, and researchers with the resources they need to design, fabricate, and test their ideas. Students are given access to a wide variety of tools, machinery, and guidance to help them realize their goals. In addition to this, professors are provided the opportunity to utilize these resources to supplement their lessons with hands-on projects.
Katie Knorr is our Academic Coordinator for Undergraduate Programs. She is your go-to resource for navigating the Undergraduate program. From course planning and registration to connecting with research, internships and student organizations, she’s here to help you make the most of your Penn Engineering experience.
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Yes. The Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics undergraduate program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, http://www.abet.org. Learn more about our program and student outcomes here.
No. You do not need to declare any major or concentration when applying to Penn as an undergraduate. Simply indicate that you are “undecided” when applying. Once you get to Penn, you can use the first part of your undergraduate experience to take engineering classes in different disciplines to see what is best for you.
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Yes, but it is optional. You can declare an optional concentration in one of three areas: Dynamics, Controls and Robotics; Mechanics of Materials, Structures and Design; and Energy, Fluids and Thermal Systems. Alternatively, you can follow the General Curriculum, which covers all major areas of mechanical engineering and prepares you for a wide range of engineering roles.
Yes. Many of our undergraduates choose to pursue research opportunities outside of classroom experiences. In order to look for a position, start by looking at our Research Areas and Faculty List to see what areas you may like and what faculty are affiliated. Then, contact the professor to inquire if any opportunities are available.
Yes! The Accelerated Master’s (4+1) Program provides motivated students with a head start on their graduate education by allowing them to begin a master’s degree while completing their bachelor’s. With departmental approval, students can take graduate-level courses alongside their undergraduate coursework.
