Do you enjoy the challenge of creating solutions? Can you imagine yourself working at the forefront of technology? If so, a major in general engineering could be the right choice for you.

PLNU’s general engineering program interweaves classical and modern physics, computer science, and mathematics with engineering, providing you with an opportunity to gain both breadth and depth in the field. Some of our students with this degree will enter the job market immediately, while others will earn a master's degree in a specific engineering field upon graduation.

PLNU offers three emphases of the general engineering major: computer engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. Each emphasis augments a solid base in physics and mathematics with a selection of engineering courses that will prepare you to work in the private sector, in national laboratories at the very forefront of technology, or to pursue an advanced degree in engineering.

The emphasis in mechanical engineering explores the theory and analysis of forces, stress, and strain within engineering structural elements, in addition to basic circuit elements and conditions of equilibrium. This emphasis can help prepare you for careers in renewable energy, urban planning, seismic science, transportation, and more.

For information about the courses required for the Engineering, B.S.E Mechanical Engineering Concentration program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

Are you curious about the mechanisms and science behind machinery and infrastructure? Utilize a degree in mechanical engineering to break down and innovate the vehicles and technology that make our society possible. 

What type of engineering is right for you?

While both play a significant role in mathematical and creative problem-solving as well as communication and leadership skills, electrical engineers focus on power generation - such as electricity, mechanical engineers focus on - getting physical parts, motors, and components to behave or act in a desired manner, and computer science engineers focus on the programmable components that make the systems run.

At PLNU, our mechanical engineering program focuses on three goals:

• Allowing you to explore the theory and analysis of forces, stress, and strain within engineering structural elements
• Developing in you strong understanding of basic circuit elements and conditions of equilibrium
• Providing you with an opportunity to gain both breadth and depth in classical and modern physics, chemistry, and mathematics with engineering

Job outlook for mechanical engineering careers

Employment in careers related to a degree in computer science engineering is projected to remain steady yet still competitive. For computer engineers, overall employment is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). However, for software developers (one of the careers pursued by graduates of the PLNU electrical engineering program), employment is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). 

What can you do with an engineering degree with a concentration in mechanical engineering?

Many PLNU graduates have gone on to work in careers in academia, aerospace, computer technology, automotive industry, construction, manufacturing design, renewable energy, research, seismic science, transportation, and urban planning (just to name a few). All are equipped with thorough knowledge and tools for their roles within these industries. 

Some of the positions PLNU graduates currently hold:

Mechanical Engineer

2023 Median annual salary: $99,510

Mechanical engineers design, develop, and test mechanical and thermal sensors and devices (tools, engines, machines, etc.). They are expected to be excellent problem solvers who can analyze a mishap in the machinery or engine and find a solution. They often design machines inside buildings as well as material-handling systems, such as conveyor systems. Most of their work is completed on computers, which helps them create and analyze designs, run simulations, and test the likelihood of success for a potential creation.

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Problem-solving skills and hands-on worker
• Creativity to design or redesign mechanical and thermal devices or subsystems
• Knowledge of programming for computer-aided design
• Developing and testing prototypes of devices
• Analyzing and determining the success or failure of test results and modifying as needed
• Overseeing the manufacturing process 

Industrial engineer

2023 Median annual salary: $99,380

Industrial engineers find ways to increase efficiency in production processes. They plan and create systems within their organization to integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service. Within the umbrella term of industrial engineer, there are certain areas of focus: automated aspects of manufacturing processes, healthcare systems, and even business administration.

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Planning out production schedules, engineering specifications, and other information
• Analyzing and figuring out how to manufacture parts or products, or deliver services, with top efficiency
• Innovating systems to make financial planning and cost analysis more efficient
• Coordinating activities and production planning to meet quality standards
• Communicating with clients, vendors, and personnel about projects

Automotive Engineer

2024 Median annual salary: $99,997

Automotive engineers develop improved or new designs for automotive structures, engines, transmissions, and associated equipment. They also must be creative and cost-efficient with modifying existing equipment for building and testing a vehicle (usually utilizing computerized technology).

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Creativity to design or redesign mechanical devices or subsystems
• Problem-solving skills and hands-on worker
• Knowledge of inner working of automobiles 
• Programming for computer-aided design
• Communication with clients and suppliers
• Analyzing and determining the success or failure of test results and modifying as needed
• Overseeing the purchase and installation of devices into the vehicle

Biomedical Engineer

2023 Median annual salary: $100,730

Biomedical engineers combine engineering with science principles to create and innovate equipment, devices, healthcare, computer systems, and software. The work of bioengineers spans a variety of fields. Some focus on designing computer software to run complicated instruments, others develop new drug therapies, while still others utilize math and statistics to understand signals transmitted by the brain or heart. Overall, biomedical engineers focus on advances in technology and medicine to develop new devices and equipment for improving human health. 

Necessary attributes and skills:

• Designing equipment, devices, and machines for diagnosing medical problems
• Installing, maintaining, or providing technical support for biomedical equipment
• Collaborating with manufacturing staff on the use of equipment
• Collaborating with scientists on how engineering principles apply to biological systems
• Creativity for developing statistical models or simulations
• Strong writer for technical reports and research papers
• Communication to present research findings 
• Ability to design or conduct experiments 

Launch your exploration into the machinery and technology that make our society possible with a degree in mechanical engineering physics

PLNU’s Engineering, B.S.E Mechanical Engineering Concentration will set you up for success in the wide-ranging opportunities available post-graduation. Whether you pursue the automotive industry, computer technology, research, or an intersection of these and more, you will be well prepared with the creativity and skills fostered on PLNU’s campus.

Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.