Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Mechanical Engineering is ideal for students who want to design, analyze, and improve mechanical systems used in everything from vehicles to energy systems. With a foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science, graduates are prepared for careers as mechanical engineers, product designers, or project managers in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Kentucky prepares students for high-impact careers across industries such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, energy, and medical technology. Mechanical engineers design and develop the systems and devices that power our everyday lives—from engines and robotics to medical devices and advanced climate control systems. Through a rigorous curriculum grounded in math, science, and engineering principles, students learn to solve complex problems involving energy, motion, sound, and manufacturing. Offered on both the Lexington and Paducah campuses, this ABET-accredited program provides opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and collaboration with industry leaders. Graduates are well-positioned for competitive careers or advanced study in top graduate programs. If you're ready to design the future, Mechanical Engineering at UK offers the tools and experiences to help you build it.
The First Year Engineering Experience
All first-year Engineering majors participate in the First Year Experience Program offered by the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. The First-Year Engineering (FYE) Program is designed to orient students to the wide range of engineering disciplines and allows students to take engineering classes on day one. FYE classes present foundational knowledge from all our undergraduate majors and equip students with the confidence to pursue any degree program they are interested in.
Our Accreditation
This program is accredited by ABET, the recognized global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. This accreditation ensures that our programs meet the highest standards of quality and prepare students to enter the global workforce as well-qualified engineering professionals. Read more about this accreditation.
Related Careers
- Aerospace Aviation
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Industrial Equipment Design
- Consulting firms
- Government agencies
- Energy and environmental solutions
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Program Specific Requirements
Students apply and enter this program as "Pre-Mechanical Engineering" majors. Students are fully admitted to the program when they complete the pre-major requirements. View specifics in the Academic Catalog.
The minimum entry requirements for admission into the Pigman College of Engineering as a first-time freshmen student are both:
- ACT math score of 25 or higher, or the SAT equivalent of 590 or higher, and an
- Unweighted high school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Additionally, students must meet the minimum Kentucky statewide academic readiness requirements for Reading and Writing to be admitted to the Pigman College of Engineering:
- Reading: Students must have an ACT Reading subscore of 20 or above (or SAT subscore of 25 or above in Critical Reading);
- English/Writing: Students must have an ACT English subscore of 18 or above (or SAT of 25 or above in Writing).
- Students who do not meet the reading/writing requirements will be required to take the ACCUPLACER exam and receive a score of 244 or better.
- Students who do not meet the minimum score on the ACCUPLACER will be required to take APP courses (UK 120 for Reading and UK 130 for Writing) and can be considered for admission to the College of Engineering after successful completion of these courses.
Test scores do not have to come directly from the testing agency. ACT/SAT scores listed on your official high school transcript are acceptable too.
Optional Test Scores
If you cannot take or choose not to submit ACT or SAT scores with your admission application, admission into the Pigman College of Engineering as a first-time freshmen student is based on meeting one of the following:
- 3.0 unweighted high school GPA and calculus on transcript
- 3.3 unweighted high school GPA and pre-calculus on transcript
- 3.65 unweighted high school GPA
Alternative Admission Routes
For students who meet the 3.0 high school GPA requirement but not the ACT/SAT requirement or the test optional requirements, alternative admission routes include:
- A score of 3 or above on the Calculus AB portion of the Advanced Placement Exam, or
- Eligibility to enter MA 110 based on the proctored UK Math Department Placement Exam. Learn more about the proctored ALEKS math placement exam and register to take it.
Students who are not initially admitted into the Pigman College of Engineering may apply at a later date as a transfer student.
Transfer Students
Engineering has established transfer pathways with nearly two dozen partner institutions enabling students to seamlessly transfer into any of our degree programs.
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2026
FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program provides students with a strong foundation in the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Students study core topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, dynamics, materials science, and mechanical design. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and hands-on learning through labs and design projects, preparing students to understand and innovate in areas ranging from energy systems to robotics and advanced manufacturing. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Attend an Upcoming Event for this Program
These events are designed to answer your questions and give you a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of our program.
Register Now“As a mechanical engineering student, I began to see how engineering really opens a door for you. You might not necessarily be doing engineering your whole life, but you still have the creative problem-solving mindset that you get from becoming an engineer.”
Monon Rahman
2019 Mechanical Engineering Graduate
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
Join the Engineering Living Learning Program
The ELLP provides a welcoming community for engineering and computer science students to be supported academically and establish meaningful connections with other students.
This residential experience complements classroom expectations by integrating students into the engineering community with programs centered on professional development and academic support. In addition, the ELLP provides students with opportunities to interact with College of Engineering faculty, alumni, industry partners, academic advisors, engineering student organizations, and Peer Mentors. Peer Mentors are hand-selected to support new students during their transition to the University of Kentucky.
Get More Information
Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
Discover your Future
At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
