Why cal poly?

Exterior view of College of Engineering building

Why Cal Poly Mechanical Engineering?

Our program integrates theory and hands-on experiences to prepare graduates to creatively solve our world’s challenges through innovation. Our graduates are ready from day one to solve problems at the molecular level to large-scale systems.

Read on to see what makes us one of the top undergraduate mechanical engineering programs in the country. 

Student clubs and organizations are an integral part of our department curriculum and give our students unique, hands-on opportunities to become successful and resourceful professionals in their fields. Organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Automotive Engineers, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers provide each student with an opportunity to associate with fellow engineers through regional and national conferences.

For more information about our clubs, visit me.calpoly.edu/clubs.

Our program integrates theoretical learning with practical, outside-the-classroom learning experiences. These experiences take the form of state-of-the-art labs, student project teams, research, internships, machine shops, among many others.

We are working together to create a more equitable and inclusive environment to promote deep engineering learning for all students. 

Our Family
Labs

We have over 17 state-of-the-art labs designed specifically to give students an understanding of the types of technology and problems they may tackle in industry.  

For more information about our facilities, visit our facilities page

Explore study abroad programs and experiences designed for mechanical engineering students in exciting destinations. These programs offer a unique opportunity to earn credit while studying abroad with your fellow Cal Poly students and learning from experienced professors at distinguished universities.

For more information about our study abroad programs, visit me.calpoly.edu/study-abroad.

Study Abroad
Machine Shops

The machine shops are a collaborative and safety-conscious learning environment where students complete the cycle of design from concept to finished product. The machine shops’ primary interest has been to expand the creative potential of Cal Poly students. By demonstrating the intricacies involved in designing for manufacturing we guide students to design parts using efficient, innovative and cost-effective manufacturing techniques. The shop has broken down barriers; where some once saw tools and machines as intimidating or disconnected from their own experience, they are now empowered. A common reaction to the shop experience is “I can do that!” It is our duty to ensure students safely and confidently bring their ideas to life.

For more information about our machine shops, visit machineshops.calpoly.edu

The Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research while using critical thinking, collaborative, and entrepreneurial skills to help solve major societal challenges.

For more information about SURP, visit engineering.calpoly.edu/surp.

Research
Faculty & Staff

Our faculty and staff are committed to the success of our students and are highly knowledgeable in their specialized field. 

For more information about our staff, visit our faculty & staff directory