Mechanical Engineering Program
2025-26 Mechanical Engineering UG Program
The Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University provides a rigorous mathematical, scientific, and engineering education, preparing our students to analyze and design a wide range of mechanical systems. Students study topics in math, physics, materials, structures, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, dynamical systems, control, and design methods. They use these tools to develop analytical and computational models of real-world systems, conduct experiments and interpret their findings, and design new systems to meet engineering specifications.
Students with Bachelor's degrees in Mechanical Engineering go on to rewarding careers as engineers in industry or pursue further study as graduate students. Our recent graduates are making important contributions in advanced manufacturing, aviation, biomechanics, data science, defense, healthcare, medical devices, renewable energy, robotics, transportation systems, sustainable agriculture, and related fields. Whatever field they choose, Mechanical Engineers from Stanford have the intellectual foundation to develop technologies that address societal needs and make life better for people.
Mechanical Engineering program requirements can be found in the Stanford Bulletin.
Please be sure to review the latest program sheet, flowchart, and 4-year plans in Plans & Program Sheets if you are interested in joining the major.
Instructions on how to declare the ME major can be found on the ME Student Intranet.
Research Experience for Undergraduates
The Mechanical Engineering department offers a Summer Undergraduate Research Institute. The SURI program includes student research training in team settings (e.g., students working together on larger projects directed by staff and faculty), and in individually directed research settings (e.g., the student will work closely with a faculty advisor or senior graduate student). Students who are accepted into SURI will receive a summer fellowship stipend sufficient to cover on-campus housing or the equivalent.
The program is open to all current Stanford undergraduate students. The application process includes completing a form online, with submissions due in March. Students are strongly encouraged to seek out and obtain a commitment from a faculty advisor before completing the online application. Students should note that SURI enrollment is capped due to funding limitations and preference is given to students with faculty commitments. Further details and information can be found on the SURI webpage.