Source: Trinity College Dublin
A mechanical engineering degree teaches students how to develop and use new materials and technologies and gain an understanding of mechanical engineering theory. Source: Trinity College Dublin

The rise of new technologies such as robotics and 3D printing makes mechanical engineering an exciting and progressive career choice. Mechanical engineers are increasingly expected to solve problems using innovative approaches and are responsible for tackling global issues, all while being aware of the impact on the environment and society. 

A mechanical engineering degree teaches students how to develop and use new materials and technologies and gain an understanding of mechanical engineering theory. Upon graduation, they will have the skills to work on medical, automotive, aerospace, renewable energy, marine and sports-related projects. Graduates can expect to work for private firms and government agencies, leading projects involving building, minerals, construction, power, manufacturing and processing. 

Universities offering programmes in mechanical engineering need to sufficiently prepare graduates for the real working world. It’s a competitive field, and employers are increasingly looking for those who have some work experience. Here are four leading universities who are preparing job-ready graduates in mechanical engineering.

Trinity College Dublin

Source: Trinity College Dublin

Studying at Trinity means learning at a top-ranked, research-led college. Source: Trinity College Dublin

If you seek a research-led, career-ready engineering education taught by leaders in the field, head to Trinity College Dublin. At this top-ranked university in Ireland, based at a superb city centre location, programmes emphasise the combination of technical knowledge with problem-solving, design and project work. The result? Graduates ready to thrive in society, industry and academia.

Undergraduate degrees at Trinity’s School of Engineering lay a broad foundation in engineering science in the first two years. Follow with two to three years of specialism to a bachelor’s or master’s level in different engineering disciplines, plus a stand-alone research project where you’ll get an unusual level of freedom of choice within the overall engineering programme.

The innovative Environmental Science and Engineering is a new integrated five-year course consisting of a four-year BSc plus an additional year of study leading to either a Master in Engineering (Studies) MAI (St.) or an MSc in Applied Environmental Science. The course provides students with a fundamental grounding in natural sciences and engineering, and in the applied skills required to develop sustainable solutions for major societal and environmental challenges.

In the Engineering with Management programme, you’ll cover a wide range of subjects, providing you with knowledge and skills in manufacturing, production, and design. More importantly, you’ll benefit from the Trinity advantage of small-group teaching with a particular emphasis on engineering design.

Postgraduate degrees include the MSc in Biomedical Engineering that provides the knowledge, skills and experience to practise in the medical devices industry with a focus on important clinical needs. Specialisations offered include Medical Device Design, as well as Neural or Tissue Engineering. The MSc in Mechanical Engineering provides a flexible route to a master’s qualification, addressing advanced topics over a wide range of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering subjects. Students also get to complete a research project with leaders in the field.

“Trinity, with its excellent research potential and amazing faculty members, is the obvious choice for any aspiring mechanical engineer,” shares Fazeel Mohammed N. M., an MSc in Mechanical Engineering student.

To learn more about the multidisciplinary school committed to delivering world-class education, research and innovation, click here.

Tampere University

Source: Tampere University

Mechanical engineers are at the forefront of sustainable solutions for a better world in the 21st century. Source: Tampere University

One of the most multidisciplinary universities in Finland. Almost all internationally recognised fields of study are represented. World-class research across disciplinary boundaries. 

Uniting research and education in technology, health and society. Tampere University is all of the above and more. 

Home to more than 100 active research groups and centres, its Centres of Excellence carry out body-on-chip research and develop original theoretical and empirical approaches related to the impact games have on culture and society.

Here, the worlds of engineering and sustainability collide. Mechanical engineers are at the forefront of sustainable solutions for a better world in the 21st century. 

Tampere’s MSc programme in Mechanical Engineering covers modules such as: Machine Design and Product Development; Aircraft Technology; The Theory of Strength; Robotics; Life-cycle Management and Engineering; Industrial Economy; and so forth. The programme is taught in Finnish and English.

Tampere University has designed a unique curriculum, ensuring students graduate with the ideal combination of advanced technical and professional skills valued by employers, and a higher level qualification that is recognised globally. 

Along with supportive academic advisors, student mentors and engineering societies, Mechanical Engineering students here enjoy a fulfilling student experience and become career-ready graduates. Tampere graduates can be found employed in industries such as aerospace, defense, marine and process industries, design offices and also in games and simulations.

Politecnico di Torino

Source: Politecnico di Torino

At Politecnico di Torino, degree programmes prepare students for grand 21st century opportunities. Source: Politecnico di Torino

Founded in 1859, Politecnico di Torino is one of the most prestigious public institutions at national and international levels in training, research, technology transfer and services in all sectors of architecture and engineering. Here, degree programmes prepare students for grand 21st century opportunities. As a result, graduates have the insights, skills, and knowledge base to thrive.

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering offers a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering programme that prepares students for leadership roles in industry, government, and private research. 

This two-year programme covers modules such as: Materials; Modelling and Numerical Methods; Functional and Structural Design; Production Systems and Manufacturing Through Innovative Technologies; Energy; Organisation and Economics, and so forth. Main specialisations covered by the degree are: Automation, Mechanical Production, Equipment and Systems Design, Propulsion of Land Vehicles, and so forth.

Core subjects are taught both in Italian and English. Within the various specialisations, some subjects will be taught in English.

Students are also encouraged to push the boundaries of modern technology and acquire the knowledge, insight and skills to make a profound impact on the world. Its international reputation for excellence in teaching and research means that a Politecnico di Torino degree will be known and respected throughout the world.

Eindhoven University of Technology

Source: Eindhoven University of Technology

Eindhoven UoT aims to improve quality of life through sustainable innovations. Source: Eindhoven University of Technology

Founded in 1956, the Eindhoven University of Technology integrates education and research to enable students and scientists to become thought leaders. With a campus in the centre of one of the most powerful technology hubs in the world — Brainport Eindhoven — the university pushes the limits of science, putting them at the forefront of rapidly emerging areas of research.

The university has one aim: to improve quality of life through sustainable innovations. 

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering; master’s programmes in Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems and Control; as well as master tracks in Artificial Intelligence Engineering Systems and Manufacturing Systems Engineering

As more engineers are needed globally to ensure safe, economic and low-emissions technology and energy production, programmes here combine modern mechanical engineering with the techniques and systems required for the production, transfer and use of energy and management of environmental impacts.

The department is devoted to designing, analysing, improving and manufacturing new products and processes, as well as the materials needed for this. Students here also are taught how to think innovatively and apply their knowledge in a broader context and across multiple industries so they can work in a wide range of jobs.

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International