If you’re considering a BS in Mechanical Engineering, you’re probably wondering, “Exactly how long does it take to become a mechanical engineer?”
The answer depends entirely on what industry you choose. For instance, those who want to work for the government typically need a PE license, which takes longer than four years to obtain. Generally, though, you can find a lot of entry-level positions with a four-year Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering degree.
Sometimes, mechanical engineers invest more time in a master’s or doctoral program if they want to advance in their careers or specialization. Understanding the different stages and sectors in mechanical engineering will help you plan your own timeline and set realistic expectations.
What does a mechanical engineer do?
Mechanical engineering continues to rank among the most versatile and rewarding career paths in today’s technology-driven economy. With that in mind, it’s helpful to understand what they do day to day.
These professionals design, analyze, test, and refine mechanical systems that power our modern world. From designing cutting-edge electric vehicles to developing life-saving medical devices, mechanical engineers shape the world around us in countless ways.
You’ll find mechanical engineers working across virtually every industry, developing more efficient engines for automotive companies, designing robotic systems for manufacturing facilities, creating renewable energy solutions, or engineering components for spacecraft and satellites.
Earning a BS in Mechanical Engineering
The foundation of any mechanical engineering career begins with a bachelor’s degree, which typically requires four years of full-time study.
Most aspiring engineers pursue a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution, ensuring their education meets the rigorous standards recognized by employers and licensing boards nationwide.
During these four years, students immerse themselves in challenging coursework that covers fundamental subjects, including advanced calculus and materials science.
A timeline: How long does it take to become a mechanical engineer?
Although earning a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering typically takes four years of full-time study, this varies depending on individual circumstances.
Any given BS in Mechanical Engineering program should be structured to build a foundational knowledge to advanced, hands-on experience over time.
Years one and two: Foundational coursework
Students enroll in core subjects such as calculus, physics, chemistry, and introductory engineering principles.
These courses establish the theoretical groundwork in mechanics, materials, and energy systems that support all future coursework.
Years three through four: Applied learning and specialization
As students advance, they move into specialized mechanical engineering topics, such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science, while engaging in hands-on laboratory experiments and computer-aided design (CAD) work.
Team-based design projects begin to simulate real engineering scenarios, emphasizing collaboration and problem-solving.
In-depth combined with project- and lab-oriented experience in our award-winning School of Engineering will prepare you for a mechanical engineering career.
Capstone and professional preparation
In the senior year, students typically complete a capstone design project, often in partnership with industry sponsors. These projects challenge students to apply their accumulated knowledge to real-world engineering problems.
Program variations for the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree
While four years is standard for a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree, some students extend or shorten their timeline. Perhaps adding a semester or two for alternating study and paid work experience, providing valuable industry exposure. Motivated students can graduate with a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in less than four years by loading up on summer coursework or taking more than 15 course hours during a standard semester.
However you divide it up, by the end of a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree program, graduates emerge with both the theoretical understanding and practical experience needed to begin a career or pursue advanced study in mechanical engineering.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program are eligible to apply for a Professional Engineer (PE) license in Connecticut, with details available through the state’s Department of Consumer Protection.
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering projects and internships
Practical, hands-on experience through internships, engineering challenges programs, or cooperative education programs proves essential for translating classroom theory into professional competence.
Most engineering students begin seeking internship opportunities during their junior year, though motivated sophomores sometimes secure positions earlier.
These experiences typically take place during summer breaks, though some students participate in semester-long co-op programs that alternate academic terms with full-time work placements at engineering firms, manufacturing facilities, research, and development laboratories.
Internships provide crucial experiences and networking opportunities that often lead directly to full-time job offers upon graduation. Many employers view internship experience as a critical qualification for entry-level positions.
Considering advanced degrees in Mechanical Engineering
While many mechanical engineers launch successful careers immediately after completing their bachelor’s degree, others opt to pursue graduate education or to take advantage of advanced opportunities.
A Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering typically requires one to two years of full-time study beyond the bachelor’s degree. Graduate programs allow engineers to develop deep expertise in specialized areas.
This means taking core program courses and then pivoting to specializations, including Mechanical Design, Manufacturing Engineering, Thermal Fluid Systems, or Mechatronics and Automation.
Becoming a licensed professional engineer (PE)
Individuals seeking to become licensed professional engineers (PE) in Connecticut must first obtain approval from the State Board before registering for the NCEES PE Exam. To qualify, applicants must have passed or be in the process of taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and hold a four-year engineering degree.
Candidates are also required to have relevant post-degree work experience, four years for those with accredited degrees, or seven years for those with non-accredited or foreign degrees.
Applicants must provide five professional references, including at least three licensed Professional Engineers, and submit verification of education, experience, and registration or examination.
Career readiness post-graduation from a Mechanical Engineering program
After completing your bachelor’s degree, you’ll be well-prepared to enter the mechanical engineering workforce in various entry-level positions.
New graduates typically begin their careers as mechanical design engineers, test engineers, manufacturing engineers, or applications engineers, depending on their interests and internship experiences.
These foundational roles allow new professionals to apply their academic knowledge while learning company-specific processes, industry standards, and professional best practices.
Build your future in Mechanical Engineering at University of Bridgeport
Choosing the right Mechanical Engineering program makes all the difference. University of Bridgeport’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering offers students a comprehensive, hands-on curriculum taught by faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.
UB’s program combines rigorous ABET-accredited coursework with practical laboratory experiences and industry connections that prepare graduates for immediate career success.
For students interested in accelerating their education, University of Bridgeport offers an exceptional opportunity to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years total through an accelerated pathway, giving you advanced qualifications in less time than traditional programs.