Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile of the engineering disciplines. It applies science and engineering principles to the analysis, design, manufacture and maintenance of mechanical systems in vehicles, aircraft, heating and cooling systems, manufacturing and energy plants, machinery, medical devices and more. At Carleton University, we offer one of the most advanced programs in Canada, and teach our mechanical engineering students how to work effectively under a variety of conditions.
The Carleton Advantage
Carleton’s Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree program in Mechanical Engineering emphasizes engineering fundamentals and challenging laboratory and design work. Our graduates are well recognized for their skills and knowledge, as well as their ability to adapt to changing technologies. The BEng program in Mechanical Engineering offers:
- comprehensive study in one of Canada’s largest mechanical engineering departments;
- an emphasis on problem-solving skills and hands-on laboratory and design work;
- excellent laboratory and computer facilities;
- a unique and challenging final-year group design project;
- excellent scholarships for high-standing students; and
- collaborative design projects with government and other research institutes.
Our Laboratory and Research Facilities
At Carleton, you will benefit from:
- outstanding campus laboratory and computer facilities,including many wind tunnels;
- complete computer-aided design and prototype fabrication and testing facilities; and
- proximity to and close association with the National Research Council Canada’s laboratories.
Your Co-op Opportunities
As a student in the Mechanical Engineering program you will have the opportunity to apply to the Co-operative Education Program. Co-op integrates degree-related, paid work terms into your degree program. A minimum of four work terms are required to obtain the Co-op designation on your degree. Often, the four consecutive work terms following third year take place with the same employer.
Our program is closely associated with a wide range of private and public service employers seeking Mechanical Engineering candidates, giving students valuable work experience and contacts that will benefit them in the future.
The pattern of work and study terms for the co-op option is shown in the following table.
| Calendar Year | Fall | Winter | Summer |
| 1 | study term 1 | study term 2 | |
| 2 | study term 3 | study term 4 | work term |
| 3 | study term 5 | study term 6 | work term |
| 4 | work term | work term | work term |
| 5 | study term 7 | study term 8 |
Choosing the Right Program
The BEng program in Mechanical Engineering is fully accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board. When you graduate from the program, you will meet the educational requirements for registration as a professional engineer.
This program builds upon two fundamental areas: design and the engineering sciences. We place a major emphasis on design, dynamics, thermodynamics, solid mechanics, materials, fluid mechanics, control systems and robotics, and heat transfer. In addition, you can choose elective courses from a wide range of applied subjects—including noise control, energy conversion and power generation, manufacturing and production processes, aerodynamics and flight mechanics, vehicle engineering, spacecraft design, automatic controls, propulsion and biomedical engineering.
Course Structure
The courses of a typical Mechanical program are shown below.
Note: As study terms and courses offered may vary, please refer to the Carleton University Undergraduate Calendar for specific program requirements.
Your Future Opportunities
As a graduate of the Mechanical Engineering degree program, you will be well prepared for challenging positions in the manufacturing industry, energy utilities, government and industry laboratories, building services and plant engineering, the transportation industry and a wide variety of consulting engineering firms.
Admission Requirements
For admission to the Mechanical Engineering program, you must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a minimum of six 4U/M courses.
Your six courses must include four prerequisite courses:
- Advanced Functions
- Chemistry
- Physics
- One of the following:
- Calculus and Vectors (strongly recommended for applicants to all engineering programs)
- Biology
- Earth and Space Science
Although it is not an admission requirement, at least one 4U course in either English or French is recommended. Equivalent courses may be substituted at the appropriate 4U level.
Since the number of qualified applicants may be greater than the number of available spaces, cut-off averages and required marks may vary.
If you are from outside Ontario, or outside Canada, please visit Carleton’s Undergraduate Admissions website for details on your specific program’s requirements.