BUILDINGTOMORROW
Mechanical engineers contribute to society and economy in many areas—energy, manufacturing, transportation systems, defense, aerospace, robots and unmanned vehicles, air-conditioning and refrigeration, medical devices and many others. In other words, the majority of the products you use every single day are all made possible by mechanical engineers. Nearly 20 percent of the nearly 3 million engineers in the United States are mechanical engineers.
Hit the ground running with one of the broadest skill sets in engineering. Mechanical engineers use their breadth of knowledge, versatility, creativity and team-working skills to build new products and systems. All those cool things you read about, like establishing colonies on the moon and Mars, 3-D printing of biomedical implants or building the next-generation aircraft and automobile engines. They're all happening right here at Herff. Build medical devices. Create renewable energy systems—wind and solar. Design and test new aerospace engines and propulsion systems. Get your feet wet testing turbines in the Mississippi River. The possibilities are endless.
Why study mechanical engineering?
As one of the broadest engineering disciplines, mechanical engineering provides a strong foundation for designing innovative products, and applying science and mathematics to improve the world around us. Mechanical engineers are involved in creating technologies that impact nearly every aspect of modern life, from advanced medical devices and renewable energy systems to aircraft, automobiles, and intelligent machines. The discipline offers diverse and rewarding career opportunities across a wide range of industries, along with strong earning potential and opportunities for leadership.
Why study mechanical engineering at the Herff College of Engineering?
Choosing to study mechanical engineering at the Herff College of Engineering means joining a program that combines academic excellence, hands-on learning, and strong industry connections in a supportive and student-centered environment. At the University of Memphis, students benefit from close interaction with dedicated faculty, modern laboratories, undergraduate research opportunities, and experiential learning that prepares them for successful careers in engineering and related fields. The curriculum emphasizes both fundamental engineering principles and emerging technologies, providing students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving profession. With opportunities for internships, co-op experiences, interdisciplinary collaboration, and engagement with industry partners, Herff College students graduate well prepared to become innovative problem-solvers, effective leaders, and lifelong learners who can make meaningful contributions to their communities and the global engineering profession.
World-Class Research
Learn more about labs in Mechanical Engineering
Undergraduate Programs
Small classes, world-class research
Graduate Programs
Earn your Masters or PhD in Mechanical Engineering!
Mechanical Engineering Faculty
Meet the faculty!
A message from the chair
Welcome to the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Memphis.
It is my pleasure to introduce you to a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in education, research, innovation, and service. Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest and most impactful engineering disciplines, playing a vital role in addressing many of society's most significant challenges, including sustainable energy, advanced manufacturing, materials engineering, healthcare technologies, automotive and aerospace systems, robotics, and smart infrastructure.
Our department is committed to providing students with a strong foundation in engineering principles while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on problem-solving skills. Through rigorous coursework, modern laboratories, undergraduate research opportunities, industry partnerships, and experiential learning, we prepare our students to become successful engineers, innovators, and leaders in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Our faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research that advances knowledge and technology across diverse areas of mechanical engineering. Their work not only contributes to scientific and technological progress but also provides students with valuable opportunities to participate in meaningful research and innovation activities.
We take pride in our student-centered approach and our commitment to academic excellence, diversity, inclusion, and professional development. Whether you are a prospective student exploring engineering as a career, a current student pursuing your academic goals, an industry partner seeking collaboration, or an alumnus staying connected with our department, we invite you to engage with our community and discover the many opportunities available at the University of Memphis.
As we continue to build on our tradition of excellence, we remain focused on preparing the next generation of engineers who will shape the future through innovation, leadership, and service to society.
Thank you for your interest in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. We look forward to supporting your success and welcoming you to our community.
Sincerely,
Hear from our students!
A degree in Mechanical Engineering sets you up for success in whatever field interests you. With Memphis centrally located on the Mississippi River, having acres of fields for renewable energy, home to an international airport and the only Level One Trauma Center for hundreds of miles, and at the forefront of AI innovation, the Herff College of Engineering is uniquely situated to prepare you at any level. But don't take it from us. Let our students tell you why they chose the Herff College of Engineering to pursue their degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Dean's Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Student in the Herff College of Engineering
Michael Dumas said he didn't take the "perfect" path through his undergraduate studies, but he graduates with Dean Okoli's recognition of "Outstanding Undergraduate Student."
Outstanding Undergraduate Leadership Award in Mechanical Engineering Winner
Get to know Sophie Nieder, mechanical engineering student and president of the Society of Women Engineers at the Herff College of Engineering.
Mechanical Engineering Outstanding Senior Award
Meet Tanya Prahalathan, 2026 Spring Semester Mechanical Engineering Outstanding Senior.
Mechanical Engineering Outstanding Junior Award
Meet Outstanding Junior Shaun Bowlin and see why he credits the Herff community with giving him the tools in and out of the classroom necessary for success.
Outstanding Undergraduate Research Award in Mechanical Engineering Winner
Get to know Marc Cicalla and see why he fell in love with research at the Herff College of Engineering.
Assistant Professor of Teaching Position in Mechanical Engineering
The Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Memphis (UofM) invites applications for a non-tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor, starting August 2026 or January 2027. This is a 12-month, non-tenure track appointment in Systems Engineering. Applicants must have a PhD in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related field.
Qualifications:
Applicants must have a PhD in Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related field.
Learn more about the position here