Mechanical Engineering Programs in Portland, Oregon

Getting a Mechanical Engineering Degree in Portland, Oregon

Mechanical engineering is a dynamic field that combines science, mathematics, and technology to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems. In Portland, Oregon, aspiring mechanical engineers have access to quality educational programs and a growing job market. This guide will walk you through the process of earning a Mechanical Engineering degree in Portland and provide information about local schools, employment opportunities, and professional resources.

About Portland, Oregon

Portland, located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, scenic landscapes, and commitment to sustainability. As the largest city in Oregon, Portland offers a wealth of educational and professional opportunities in engineering. The city is home to neighborhoods such as the Pearl District, known for its innovation hubs, and the Silicon Forest, a cluster of high-tech companies. Learn more about Portland at its official city website.

Mechanical Engineering Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland offers several options for students pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree. Below are some of the top programs available:

1. Portland State University (PSU)

   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
   • Location: Downtown Portland
   • Description: PSU’s Mechanical Engineering program focuses on providing a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through labs and industry partnerships. PSU is ABET accredited.
   • Website: PSU Mechanical Engineering

2. Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) – Portland-Metro Campus

   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
   • Location: Wilsonville (20 miles south of Portland)
   • Description: Oregon Tech offers a practice-focused Mechanical Engineering program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce. The program includes coursework in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and robotics.
   • Website: Oregon Tech Mechanical Engineering

3. University of Portland (UP)

   • Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
   • Location: University Park neighborhood, North Portland
   • Description: UP’s program integrates technical education with ethical and social responsibility. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
   • Website: UP Mechanical Engineering

If you are willing to commute, consider Oregon State University (OSU) in Corvallis, located approximately 85 miles south of Portland. OSU offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in Mechanical Engineering with numerous specialization options. Visit their website for more details.

Mechanical Engineering Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland is home to a thriving engineering industry, with several major employers seeking mechanical engineers:

1. Intel Corporation

   • Focus: Semiconductor manufacturing and technological innovation.
   • Location: Hillsboro (Silicon Forest, 15 miles west of Portland)
   • Description: Intel is one of the largest employers in Oregon, offering roles in research, development, and manufacturing for mechanical engineers.
   • Website: Intel Careers

2. Boeing Portland

   • Focus: Aerospace manufacturing and innovation.
   • Location: Gresham, East Portland
   • Description: Boeing’s Portland facility specializes in advanced manufacturing processes for aerospace components, providing exciting opportunities for mechanical engineers.
   • Website: Boeing Careers

3. Daimler Trucks North America

   • Focus: Commercial vehicle manufacturing.
   • Location: Swan Island, North Portland
   • Description: Daimler’s Portland headquarters offers roles in product design, manufacturing, and research and development for mechanical engineers.
   • Website: Daimler Careers

Prerequisites for Mechanical Engineering Programs

To enroll in a Mechanical Engineering program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum GPA: 3.0 for most bachelor’s programs.
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission; GRE scores for graduate programs.
• Coursework: Strong background in mathematics (algebra, calculus), physics, and chemistry.
• Additional Requirements: Letters of recommendation, personal statement, and application fees.

International students may need to provide proof of English proficiency through exams like the TOEFL or IELTS.

ABET Accreditation and Professional Engineer (PE) Licensure

When selecting a Mechanical Engineering program, ABET accreditation is critical. ABET ensures that the program meets industry standards, which is often a requirement for obtaining Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

To become a licensed PE in Oregon, follow these steps:

1. Earn an ABET-accredited degree in Mechanical Engineering.
2. Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, typically taken soon after graduation.
3. Gain work experience under a licensed PE (usually four years).
4. Pass the PE exam in your chosen field of engineering.

Learn more about licensure requirements through the Oregon State Board of Examiners for Engineering and Land Surveying (OSBEELS).

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree in Portland, Oregon, is an excellent step toward a rewarding career. With a range of educational options, strong industry demand, and professional resources, Portland provides a supportive environment for aspiring engineers. Contact one of the schools listed above to begin your journey toward a degree in Mechanical Engineering.