Cal Poly Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is the largest department at Cal Poly with more than 1,250 undergraduates and is ranked as the second-best undergraduate focused mechanical engineering program in the country by U.S. News and World Reports. Our curriculum shares a common philosophy that real engineering work requires not only a solid understanding of theory but also hands-on experiences and skills to finish the job. Our program effectively combines theory and practical application to prepare students for careers in a wide variety of industries and graduate school. Our state-of-the-art laboratories, student clubs and organizations, and machine shops are integral parts of our curriculum and give students unique, Learn by Doing opportunities to become successful and resourceful professionals in their fields. Our mission is to impart knowledge in the art and science of mechanical engineering through a comprehensive curriculum true to the traditional Cal Poly learn-by-doing philosophy that produces mechanical engineers of high ethics and skill, fully prepared for entry into industry, government, graduate school and private enterprise. For more information about our department, visit