Department of Mechanical Engineering

Turn blueprints into action

Mechanical Engineering is one of the broadest and most versatile engineering disciplines, focused on how things move, work, and perform. If you’re curious about how systems fit together, enjoy solving complex problems, and like designing solutions and systems that improve everyday life, Mechanical Engineering could be an inspiring degree path for you. 

Mechanical engineers work across industries including robotics, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, biomedical technology, and automation. From designing mechanical systems and developing new products to improving efficiency and sustainability, a career in Mechanical Engineering blends creativity with analytical thinking and opens doors to roles like design engineer, systems engineer, product developer, researcher, and technical leader. 

Why study Mechanical Engineering at NAU

Mechanical Engineering at NAU is built around doing the work engineers actually do. From your first year through your senior capstone, you’ll benefit from project-based learning that emphasizes design, analysis, prototyping, and testing. 

Small class sizes create a collaborative environment where you work closely with faculty and peers, turning theory into functional systems and solutions. Supported by strong industry and alumni connections and degree options that span mechanical engineering, mechanics and robotics, and advanced research pathways, you’ll be ready to adapt and innovate in this rapidly evolving field. 

Learning outcomes

As a Mechanical Engineering major at NAU, you will: 

• identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. 
• 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. 
• recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgements, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, and environmental, and societal contexts. 
• develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgement to draw conclusions. 

Student clubs and organizations

Collaborate on engineering projects, strengthen your technical skills, and build lasting connections with other engineering students through student clubs and organizations sponsored by NAU.

Dedicated support 

Success in Mechanical Engineering takes more than strong technical knowledge and skills. At NAU, you’ll be supported with opportunities and guidance at every stage of your academic journey. 

Faculty mentorship

You'll be supported by faculty who are invested in both your academic growth and professional goals. From mentorship and research opportunities to design teams and industry connections, you’ll have guidance throughout your academic experience.

Scholarships

You’ll have access to scholarships and funding that support academic progress and professional development. Many awards are supported by industry partners and donors who believe in preparing the next generation of engineers. Browse scholarships available to engineering students on the Scholarship Universe website. 

Career readiness

You’ll gain experience through design competitions, industry-sponsored projects, undergraduate research, and senior capstone showcases. NAU students are often recruited directly from competitions and project reviews into roles across industries, from advanced manufacturing and robotics to energy systems and biomedical engineering.