Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is a broad curriculum which offers a wide choice of careers. Mechanical Engineers deal with the production, control and utilization of energy and motion in systems to benefit society.

Career paths include aerospace, power, HVAC, bioengineering, manufacturing, management, and a host of others.

A unique feature of the mechanical engineering curriculum is the capstone design course through VMI's Cooperative Engineering Center. Cadet teams work on real-world design projects supplied by local industries who are members of the Cooperative Engineering Center with an industry engineer and faculty member as advisors. Cadets write a formal design report and give an oral report to supporting industry.

Cadets may earn a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, a concentration in Aerospace Engineering, and a concentration in Nuclear Engineering.


Degrees and Programs

Major(s): Mechanical Engineering

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Concentration(s):

Minor(s):

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Mechanical Engineering is the second oldest of the engineering professions and has the second largest enrollment of students in the United States.  Mechanical engineering is a broad field which includes many areas of study such as refrigeration, air conditioning, energy conversion, nuclear engineering, biomedical engineering, transportation equipment engineering and industrial engineering. Mechanical engineers are employed in the design, operations, sales, energy conservation, research, and management. 


Mechanical Engineering in the News

Find out more about the department's cadets and faculty in recent VMI news.

Behind the Balance: Drew Menges ’25 — Keydet Soccer

When Drew Menges '25 found Virginia Military Institute, it was nearly kismet. By attending VMI, he’d also be able to play soccer for the school while still having the opportunity to pursue serving his country.

Good Morning Rome! Cadet’s Study Abroad Experience Turns Into Radio Broadcast

Louis Wiltenmuth ’25, a mechanical engineering major, wanted to get ahead in classes this past summer, while also gaining some cultural experience. What started as a study abroad experience in Rome, turned into him becoming the cadet in charge of the program.   

VMI: Forging 21st Century Leaders