Mechanical Engineering Department

Two students sit in front of a computer and experimental set-up while holding an open textbook

Undergraduate programs

We offer Bachelor of Science degrees and minor programs in aerospace engineering and in mechanical engineering. Learn more about our undergraduate programs.

Two graduate students stand in front of a polishing machine while holding a clipboard with papers

Graduate degrees

We offer graduate degrees in aerospace engineering and in mechanical engineering. Learn more about our graduate programs.

Mechanical Engineering Highlights

Teaching Associate Professor Angelina Padilla has received the Ralph E. and Rose A. Hoeper Award for Excellence in Teaching and Advisement in May 2025. Padilla, who also serves as associate chair for the Mechanical Engineering Department, has been recognized for teaching excellence in the past: she was the F. Donald Tibbitts Distinguished Teacher in 2022.
Mechanical Engineering students and sisters Lily and Melanie Raymond won the Reno Innevation Center’s Makerthon competition April 25-27, 2025. In the 48-hour competition period, the two developed a specialized deck of cards designed to boost cognitive functionality, provide an emotional connection and offer a tactical activity to improve fine motor skills in response to the competition challenge: "Design a product, system, or experience that meaningfully enhances the aging journey." View separate news clips of and on KOLO-TV.

Mechanical engineering news

Three researchers in a laboratory stand behind a seated student working at a computer, which displays an image of an explosion outdoors.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission funds new nuclear microreactor safety research

University faculty to help develop regulations that ensure safe and rapid deployment of sustained electric power capacity to military and disaster sites