Mechanical Engineering

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in mechanical engineering curriculum begins with a strong emphasis on mathematics, physics and chemistry. It continues with a concentration in engineering sciences, including solid and fluid mechanics; thermodynamics, heat and mass transport; materials; and systems analysis and control. It concludes with laboratory and design courses which demonstrate the ways in which scientific knowledge is applied in the design and development of useful devices and manufacturing processes.

The program offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Colorado Denver can be completed in the afternoon and evening hours to accommodate both working and traditional students. The department seeks to graduate a diverse population of students with a bachelors degree, who within a few years of graduation are able to:

(1) be employed by a diverse group of industries, research laboratories and educational institutions

(2) pursue careers in traditional engineering, interdisciplinary areas, research and education

(3) pursue post-graduate education and advanced degrees.

BSME Student Educational Outcomes

• an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering 
• an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data 
• an ability to design a system component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability 
• an ability to function on multi-disciplinary teams 
• an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems 
• an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility 
• an ability to communicate effectively 
• the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context 
• a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning 
• a knowledge of contemporary issues 
• an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice

The mechanical engineering program may be roughly sub-divided into two-year groupings. In the first two years, the program emphasizes the fundamentals of mathematics and basic science that are essential for an understanding of most branches of engineering.  In the last two years of the program, the department emphasizes engineering science and design and provides technical electives in the following areas:

• Air Conditioning Theory and Design
• Bioengineering
• Dynamics and Control Systems
• Fluid Mechanics and Solid Mechanics
• Energy Systems and Thermal Design
• Material Science and Composites
• Mechanical Systems Design and Manufacturing
• Motorsports Engineering
• Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer

The BS in mechanical engineering requires 128 semester credit hours for graduation. Students should check with departmental advisors to determine their degree requirements.  The particular curriculum to be satisfied by each student is the one published in the catalog current at the time of their matriculation.  

Freshman admission consideration for both in-state and out-of-state students is based primarily upon:

1. Quality and number of high school courses (units) attempted (a rigorous academic program of study is preferred)
2. The admission index, which is a numeric score calculated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education based on GPA or rank in class and ACT or SAT test scores.
3. Optional personal essay and letters of recommendation. Though not required, a personal statement or essay and/or letters of recommendation may be considered in the admissions review process

General Admission

You are a strong candidate for general admission if:

1. Your index is 93 or higher
2. You have completed all HEAR requirements AND have no more than two MAPS unit deficiencies

TEST SCORES: ACT/SAT

Results are mandatory for international students who have graduated from a U.S. high school or those seeking freshman admission directly to the College of Engineering and Applied Science programs. For engineering students, admission to CU Denver is still possible without these scores by way of the Pre-Engineering program in the College of Liberal Arts and Science.

TEST SCORES: TOEFL, IELTS, OR PTE

Applicants will be considered to have obtained the required English language proficiency if they meet satisfactory scores (below) or one of the additional options:

SCORE REQUIREMENTS:

TOEFL

Minimum TOEFL Score Accepted: 75 IBT / 537 PBT

IELTS

Minimum IELTS Score Accepted: 6.5

The TOEFL/IELTS requirement can be waived if an applicant has graduated from the ESL Academy. Information regarding other considerations for exemption, including country of citizenship/origin, and special circumstances can be found here. Please note that some graduate level programs will require a higher score on the TOEFL/IELTS and applicants should consult the department for additional details

PTE ACADEMIC

Minimum PTE Academic Score Accepted: 51

TThe Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is currently in a pilot review at the University of Colorado Denver. We will accept a 51 PTE Academic score with the following subscores:

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Colorado Denver offers a number of scholarship opportunities for students.

Undergraduate engineering students can apply for scholarships designated specifically for engineering students as a way to recognize and encourage academic excellence.

In addition, the College of Engineering and Applied Science has several National Science Foundation scholarships available to new and financially eligible CU Denver students enrolled full-time in one of the four engineering majors.