Mechanical engineers at Bucknell learn about combustion engines and fuel cells, thermodynamics and biomechanics, mechanical design and robotics. All students in the major participate in a senior design project during their last year at Bucknell in which they design, build and test devices for real clients. A mechanical engineering degree is as hands-on as it gets.

Mechanical engineering students at Bucknell engage in state-of-the-art research and other independent learning experiences.

These activities are a natural extension of the close relationships developed with faculty through small class and laboratory sizes. Students have the opportunity to apply their engineering knowledge to relevant problems with real consequences. All students are required to participate in the Senior Design course sequence in which they design, build, and test mechanical and thermal devices for actual customers with real budgets. Many students also take advantage of summer research opportunities supported by the University or individual faculty research funding. Other independent opportunities include independent studies and honors theses.