Mechanical Engineering Programs in Nashville, Tennessee
Getting a Mechanical Engineering Degree in Nashville, Tennessee
Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree in Nashville, Tennessee, opens the door to a rewarding career in one of the most versatile and in-demand engineering fields. Mechanical Engineering focuses on designing, analyzing, and manufacturing mechanical systems, ranging from engines and machinery to renewable energy systems and robotics. Whether you’re just starting your educational journey or advancing your career, Nashville offers several pathways to achieve your goals in this field.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed information about Mechanical Engineering programs in Nashville, local employment opportunities, and the steps to becoming a licensed engineer in Tennessee.
About Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is a thriving city known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic landmarks, and growing economy. Located in Davidson County, this bustling metropolitan area is home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, music, and advanced manufacturing. For more information about Nashville and its offerings, visit the official city website.
Nashville’s central location and robust educational infrastructure make it an excellent place to pursue a Mechanical Engineering degree. The city’s proximity to major employers and its support for workforce development provide ample opportunities for engineering students and professionals alike.
Mechanical Engineering Programs in Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is home to several institutions offering Mechanical Engineering programs, as well as nearby universities for those seeking additional options. Below are some of the top programs available:
1. Vanderbilt University – School of Engineering
- Location: West End neighborhood, Nashville, TN
- Program Highlights:
- Offers Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degrees in Mechanical Engineering.
- ABET-accredited undergraduate program.
- Strong emphasis on research areas such as robotics, energy systems, and biomechanics.
- Website: Vanderbilt Mechanical Engineering
2. Tennessee State University – College of Engineering
- Location: North Nashville, TN
- Program Highlights:
- Offers Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.).
- Focused on preparing students for industry or graduate study through a comprehensive curriculum and internship opportunities.
- Website: Tennessee State Mechanical Engineering
3. Nashville State Community College
- Location: White Bridge neighborhood, Nashville, TN
- Program Highlights:
- Offers an Associate of Science (A.S.) in Mechanical Engineering with transfer pathways to Tennessee public universities.
- Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling options.
- Website: Nashville State Mechanical Engineering
For students willing to commute, additional options are available nearby:
4. University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Tickle College of Engineering
- Location: Knoxville, TN (approximately 2.5 hours from Nashville)
- Program Highlights:
- Offers B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. programs in Mechanical Engineering.
- Extensive research opportunities in cutting-edge areas like aerospace and renewable energy.
- Website: UT Knoxville Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Employment Opportunities in Nashville
Nashville is home to a variety of engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and research institutions that provide excellent career opportunities for Mechanical Engineering graduates. Below are some of the top employers in the area:
1. Bridgestone Americas, Inc.
- Location: Downtown Nashville
- Overview: A global leader in tire manufacturing and automotive solutions, Bridgestone offers roles for mechanical engineers in product design, testing, and manufacturing.
- Website: Bridgestone Careers
2. Nissan North America
- Location: Franklin, TN (approximately 25 minutes from Nashville)
- Overview: Nissan’s North American headquarters provides opportunities in automotive engineering, including mechanical design and system optimization.
- Website: Nissan Careers
3. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
- Location: Regional offices in Nashville
- Overview: TVA focuses on energy production and infrastructure, offering roles in mechanical systems maintenance and renewable energy projects.
- Website: TVA Careers
Prerequisites for Mechanical Engineering Programs
To enroll in a Mechanical Engineering program in Nashville, you’ll typically need to meet the following requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Completion of high school-level coursework, including advanced mathematics (algebra, calculus) and physics.
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores, depending on the institution.
- Minimum GPA: Requirements vary but generally range from 2.5 to 3.5 for undergraduate programs.
- Additional Requirements for Graduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- GRE scores, depending on the program.
ABET Accreditation and Professional Engineer (PE) Licensure
Importance of ABET Accreditation
Accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) ensures that a program meets industry standards. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program is essential for licensure and professional recognition.
Becoming a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Tennessee
- Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
- Work Experience: Gain four years of supervised engineering experience.
- Exams: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
For more details, visit the Tennessee Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners.
Get Started Today
Earning a Mechanical Engineering degree in Nashville, Tennessee, is an excellent investment in your future. With a variety of educational options, strong local employment opportunities, and pathways to licensure, Nashville is the perfect place to begin or advance your engineering career. Contact a school today to take the first step toward achieving your goals.