Florida International University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is a technically rigorous programme combining foundation science and mathematics with core engineering subjects and hands-on laboratory work. The curriculum is typically completed in four years and balances general education requirements with major-specific courses, culminating in a senior design capstone project.

• Core mathematics and science: calculus sequence, differential equations, linear algebra, physics with laboratory, and engineering chemistry fundamentals.
• Mechanical engineering fundamentals: statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and machine design.
• Engineering practice and analysis: materials science, manufacturing processes, control systems, systems modelling, numerical methods and computational tools (CAD, FEA, CFD basics).
• Laboratory and hands-on components: experimental mechanics labs, thermal-fluids labs, manufacturing and prototyping workshops, and electronics/embedded systems labs where applicable.
• Design and project work: multidisciplinary design courses leading to a senior capstone project where students conceive, design, prototype and test mechanical systems in team settings.
• Electives and specialisation: options allow focus areas such as robotics and automation, energy and HVAC, automotive and aerospace, biomedical devices, advanced manufacturing, or materials engineering.

Entry requirements

FIU admits students to the mechanical engineering programme from secondary school, community college transfer routes and international backgrounds. Typical entry expectations include:

• A high school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics (calculus-ready or pre-calculus with strong grades) and physics; transferrable college credit is accepted where appropriate.
• A competitive overall academic record demonstrating strength in STEM subjects. Specific GPA or test thresholds vary by applicant pool and admission pathway.
• For international applicants, proof of English proficiency is required unless exempt. Transfer applicants should present college transcripts and may need to meet prerequisite engineering coursework requirements.
• All applicants should consult FIU Admissions and the College of Engineering and Computing for programme-specific prerequisite courses, placement policies and advice on credit for AP/IB or dual-enrolment coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from FIU enter a wide range of industries. Common career destinations and roles include:

• Mechanical design and product development engineer in manufacturing, consumer products and industrial equipment.
• Thermal-fluids and HVAC engineer in building systems, energy utilities and sustainable energy projects.
• Automotive and aerospace engineering positions focusing on powertrain, structural components, aerodynamics and testing.
• Robotics, automation and controls engineering roles in industrial automation and robotics companies.
• Biomedical device engineering, materials testing and quality assurance roles in medical technology firms.
• Research and development positions, or continued study at graduate level (MS/PhD) in specialised engineering fields.

Graduates may also pursue professional licensure (Engineer in Training and Professional Engineer pathways), technical consulting, project management or entrepreneurship. FIU’s location and industry partnerships help students secure internships and co‑op experiences that lead to employment.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing offers an accredited mechanical engineering programme with strong connections to regional industry and research. Students benefit from applied research centres and laboratory facilities that support materials testing, thermal‑fluids experimentation, robotics and advanced manufacturing.

• Industry links and internships: Miami’s diverse industrial base and FIU’s employer partnerships provide internship and co‑op opportunities across energy, aerospace, manufacturing, biomedical and technology firms.
• Hands-on learning: modern labs, makerspaces and capstone design projects ensure students graduate with practical design, prototyping and testing experience.
• Research and graduate pathways: active faculty research in areas such as advanced materials, energy systems and automation creates opportunities for undergraduate research and smooth progression to postgraduate study.
• Diverse, supportive environment: FIU emphasises diversity, access and student support services, with advising, tutoring and student engineering organisations to help students succeed academically and professionally.