Mechanical Engineering Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Getting a Mechanical Engineering Degree in Charlotte, North Carolina
Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree in Charlotte, North Carolina, opens the door to a dynamic and rewarding career. Mechanical Engineering is a versatile field that combines principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems. Whether you are interested in robotics, aerospace, automobile design, or power generation, a Mechanical Engineering degree equips you with the skills needed to thrive in these areas.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Mechanical Engineering education and career opportunities available in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. From educational programs to employment prospects, this article will help you take the first step toward an exciting career in Mechanical Engineering.
About Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, often called the “Queen City,” is the largest city in North Carolina and serves as a hub for education, innovation, and industry. Known for its vibrant urban landscape and strong business community, Charlotte features renowned cultural landmarks like the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Discovery Place Science. The city’s economic growth and proximity to major industries make it an ideal location for pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree.
For more information about Charlotte, visit the City of Charlotte official website.
Mechanical Engineering Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte is home to several high-quality Mechanical Engineering programs, as well as nearby institutions offering additional opportunities for aspiring engineers. Below is a list of programs available in Charlotte and its surrounding areas.
1. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte)
- Location: University City, Charlotte
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering
- Accreditation: ABET-accredited
- Highlights: UNC Charlotte emphasizes a hands-on, design-based curriculum supported by cutting-edge laboratories and a dedicated machine shop.
- Website: UNC Charlotte – Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Science
2. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC)
- Location: Uptown Charlotte
- Program: Associate in Engineering with transfer pathways to Mechanical Engineering bachelor’s programs
- Accreditation: Regionally accredited
- Highlights: CPCC provides foundational engineering courses and transfer agreements with universities like UNC Charlotte, offering a cost-effective pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
- Website: CPCC Engineering Programs
3. North Carolina State University (NCSU) – Distance Education
- Location: Raleigh, NC (Distance Education available for Charlotte residents)
- Program: Online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Accreditation: ABET-accredited
- Highlights: NCSU offers flexible online options designed for working professionals pursuing advanced Mechanical Engineering degrees.
- Distance from Charlotte: Approximately 140 miles
- Website: NCSU Mechanical Engineering Online
For students seeking additional options, Duke University in Durham, NC, offers highly regarded Mechanical Engineering programs approximately 140 miles from Charlotte. Visit Duke University Mechanical Engineering for more details.
Mechanical Engineering Employment Opportunities in Charlotte
Charlotte’s thriving business community provides ample opportunities for Mechanical Engineers. Below are some of the prominent employers in the area:
1. Siemens Energy
- Location: Southwest Charlotte
- Industry: Power generation and energy solutions
- Highlights: Siemens Energy offers roles in mechanical design, manufacturing, and research, with a focus on innovative energy systems.
- Website: Siemens Energy Careers
2. Daimler Trucks North America
- Location: Mount Holly, NC (20 miles from Charlotte)
- Industry: Automotive and heavy-duty truck manufacturing
- Highlights: This facility focuses on engineering and manufacturing state-of-the-art commercial vehicles.
- Website: Daimler Trucks Careers
3. Honeywell International
- Location: South End, Charlotte
- Industry: Aerospace, safety, and productivity solutions
- Highlights: Honeywell’s engineering teams work on advanced technologies in aerospace and automation.
- Website: Honeywell Careers
Prerequisites for Mechanical Engineering Programs
Admission requirements for Mechanical Engineering programs typically include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum GPA (varies by institution, often 3.0 or higher)
- Completion of prerequisite courses in mathematics (calculus), physics, and chemistry
- SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate programs
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field for master’s programs
Be sure to check specific prerequisites for the program you are interested in, such as those at UNC Charlotte or NCSU.
ABET Accreditation and Professional Engineer (PE) Licensure
Importance of ABET Accreditation
Accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) ensures that a Mechanical Engineering program meets industry standards. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program is often required for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer in North Carolina
The process for obtaining PE licensure in North Carolina includes:
- Completing an ABET-accredited undergraduate program
- Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
- Gaining at least four years of relevant work experience
- Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam
For more information, visit the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an excellent step toward a fulfilling career in a high-demand field. With strong educational programs, a robust local industry, and professional development opportunities, Charlotte offers everything you need to succeed. Take the first step toward your Mechanical Engineering career by reaching out to one of the schools listed above and exploring their application process.