Why Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering?

Develop a range of engineering skills within one of the broadest engineering disciplines. A bachelor’s degree in mechanical and nuclear engineering teaches you to apply the principles of engineering, material science, physics and mathematics to design, analyze and manufacture mechanical systems such as vehicles, biomedical devices, consumer products, internal combustion engines, power plants, and other nuclear applications.

Our undergraduate programs allow you to specialize in areas such as:

  • Computer-aided engineering design
  • Engineering graphics & materials
  • Mechanical systems design
  • Mechatronics
  • Thermal-fluid systems design

From day one, you'll thrive in a hands-on learning environment. You'll engage in coursework defined by award-winning faculty research in areas like aerospace engineering, energy and nuclear engineering, manufacturing and more. Qualified seniors have the option to enroll in an accelerated master’s program, potentially earning a graduate degree in just one additional year.

Located in the culturally vibrant city of Richmond, VCU provides unique opportunities to network with alumni and industry professionals from companies like Colonial Webb, Dominion Energy, IBM, Newport News Shipbuilding and others.

Shaping the future

Hear from Isshan Thakur as he shares his experiences as a mechanical engineering major.

Experiential learning makes students industry-ready

You will graduate from the VCU College of Engineering with the confidence and competence necessary for a successful engineering career. Our undergraduate plan of study includes at least one lab every semester, a professional development course with several industry interactions, a required internship or co-op experience and a year-long capstone design project.

Student working with wiring on the Hyperloop pod

Gateway to Virginia’s Nuclear Industry

Connect with leading companies in the nuclear industry through partnerships developed by the VCU College of Engineering. Located in Richmond, near the heart of the nuclear industry, the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering is among the best programs ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Our unique combined doctorate and comprehensive undergraduate curriculum prepare you for success in the growing field of nuclear engineering.

A group of students in front of a computer screen array in the Nuclear Simulator Lab

Quick facts

87%

of graduates employed or enrolled in graduate school within 6 months

10%

of graduates enrolled in graduate school within 6 months

$74,443

average mechanical engineering post-graduation salary

100%

of students graduate having completed experiential learning

72%

of students participated in a credit-bearing internship

491

enrolled undergraduate students (Fall 2024)

97

undergraduate degrees awarded for the 23-24 school year

2024 median pay per year

$127,520

Nuclear Engineering

$102,320

Mechanical Engineering

May 2024 First Destination Survey | VCU Institutional Research Data | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics