University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder provides a core sequence of courses in calculus, physics and chemistry, together with introductory engineering courses that introduce modelling, materials, circuits and statics. In the first two years students typically complete foundational modules such as:

• Calculus I–III and differential equations
• General physics with laboratory
• General chemistry (where required) and materials science fundamentals
• Introduction to engineering design and programming for engineers
• Engineering mechanics: statics and dynamics

After the core, students move into discipline-specific coursework depending on their chosen major or emphasis. Common specialisations and sample subjects include:

• Aerospace Engineering: aerodynamics, flight mechanics, propulsion, and aircraft/spacecraft design
• Civil and Environmental Engineering: structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, water resources and environmental systems
• Mechanical Engineering: thermodynamics, heat transfer, machine design and manufacturing processes
• Electrical, Computer & Energy Engineering: circuits, electronics, signals and systems, power systems and embedded systems
• Biomedical Engineering options: biomechanics, biomaterials and medical device design

Program elements emphasise teamwork and practical experience. Students complete laboratory classes, computer-aided design and simulation projects, and a capstone senior design project that typically involves a multidisciplinary team and an industry or faculty-sponsored challenge. There are also opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty groups, internships with Colorado and national employers, and participation in design competitions.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Engineering is competitive and based on academic performance in secondary school. Typical entry expectations include strong achievement in:

• Mathematics (calculus or pre-calculus with a strong algebra and trigonometry background)
• Physics and chemistry or other relevant science subjects
• A rigorous high-school curriculum such as AP, IB or A-levels where available

For domestic applicants, selection normally considers GPA and the strength of the applicant's maths and science preparation. International applicants must present equivalent secondary qualifications and demonstrate English language proficiency by accepted tests recognised by the university. Transfer applicants from community colleges or other institutions are assessed on post-secondary coursework with particular attention to completed mathematics, physics and engineering prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor of Engineering from CU Boulder enter a broad range of careers in the private and public sectors. Common employment areas include:

• Aerospace and defence engineering firms
• Civil infrastructure and environmental consulting
• Energy and power generation, including renewables and grid technology
• Electronics, telecommunications and embedded systems companies
• Manufacturing, automotive and robotics industries
• Biomedical device development and healthcare technology

Graduates often work as design engineers, systems engineers, project engineers, test engineers, or in product development and R&D roles. Many pursue professional licensure (such as the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and later Professional Engineer registration), or continue to postgraduate study in specialist engineering fields, business, law, or research-based MSc/PhD programmes.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

The College of Engineering and Applied Science at CU Boulder combines strong teaching with active research across disciplines. Students benefit from hands-on facilities, maker spaces and modern labs, plus links to research institutes and centres that focus on areas such as aerospace, renewable energy, climate and materials science. The university's location in Boulder and the greater Denver region offers access to a vibrant technology and start-up community, national laboratories, and regional employers who recruit engineering graduates.

Undergraduate students can engage in faculty-led research, industry internships, cooperative education experiences and interdisciplinary programmes through institutes such as the ATLAS Institute and collaborative centres. The curriculum is designed to meet accreditation standards and to prepare students for immediate professional work or further specialised study.