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Engineering Mechanics

Grainger College of Engineering

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What is Engineering Mechanics?

This major focuses on solving mechanics problems through mathematical, scientific, and engineering principles. You will learn the building blocks of statics, dynamics, strength of materials, and fluid dynamics. As an Engineering Mechanics student, you’ll learn the basis of all mechanical sciences:

  • Civil engineering
  • Materials science and engineering
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Aeronautical and aerospace engineering

Your studies will also place an emphasis on the physical principles necessary to modern engineering design. This may be the major for you if you’re interested in a program that emphasizes analysis and research preparedness.

Career Options

  • Aerospace
  • Automotive work
  • Computer software & electronics
  • Defense & security
  • Environment
  • Health & biological work
  • Manufacturing, energy, & transportation
  • Research & development

Post-Graduation Success1

80% employed or continuing education

54% employed after graduation

26% attending graduate school

$66,952 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Caterpillar, Intel View All

Sample grad school destinations: Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Michigan, Carnegie Mellon University View All

Program Resources

Grainger College of Engineering Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Strong math and science coursework and performance
  • Calculus preferred and physics expected (if available at high school)
  • Strong teamwork and interpersonal communication skills
  • Interest in improving society through engineering
  • Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the engineering major selected

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Guide

Graduation & Retention2

4.2 years to degree

93% first-year retention rate

45% four-year graduation rate

85% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $17,976
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses: $18,222
  • Total: $41,126

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $39,736
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses:$18,562
  • Total: $63,226

International

  • Tuition: $42,868
  • Fees: $4,928
  • Expenses: $18,562
  • Total: $66,358

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the My Next Move website.

2 Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.

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