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Mechanical Engineering Major

Bachelor of Science

With a mechanical engineering degree, you’ll gain hands-on experience and participate in high-level specialized design opportunities, positioning you for success in a variety of industries.

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Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at Bethel, you’ll receive a solid foundation in physics and specialized hands-on learning experiences. This is one of the only programs of its kind at a Christ-centered university, where you’ll get the both of best worlds: a tight-knit learning atmosphere in a liberal arts setting and advanced, original research experiences. You’ll be able to complete the degree in as few as four years, efficiently setting you up for success in a variety of industries or graduate school.

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Why should I study mechanical engineering at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your education will center in the Department of Physics and Engineering, where you’ll receive personalized mentorship and engage in hands-on learning experiences. And you’ll find unique options and pathways to match your graduate school and career goals.

  • Faith-fueled learning
    Ground your mechanical engineering studies in a Christ-centered environment, preparing you to serve with purpose and integrity in your future career.

  • Flexible learning paths
    You’ll be exposed to a variety of core technical courses in the first two years, allowing you to experience each field while working alongside with students across many majors in general education courses.

  • Close faculty mentorship
    In a tight-knit environment, you’ll engage in close faculty collaboration for personalized mentorship, working together on real world design and research projects.

  • Strong success in graduate and medical schools
    You’ll be well-equipped to pursue careers that require medical or graduate degrees. And our graduates have a longstanding success rate in getting into medical programs and pursuing vibrant careers.

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

Find your counselor

Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

Throughout the mechanical engineering program, you’ll cultivate a comprehensive skill set essential for success in the field of mechanical engineering.

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Foundational coursework

Master core subjects in physics, mathematics, and engineering fundamentals, providing you with a strong foundation for advanced study and practice.

Specialized design opportunities

Gain exposure to high-level design projects, including the development of mechanical and thermal devices for various applications.

Hands-on experience

Engage in original research experiences and practical projects, honing your problem-solving skills and engineering techniques.

Effective communication

Learn to communicate complex engineering concepts effectively to diverse audiences, fostering collaboration and teamwork.

Critical thinking

Develop analytical and problem-solving skills to tackle complex engineering challenges and drive innovation in the field.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

As a student in the mechanical engineering program, you'll engage in hands-on learning experiences that will prepare you for a successful career in mechanical engineering.

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Clubs and travel

You can participate in multiple clubs, like High-Power Rocket Team, Society of Physics Students, and study abroad opportunities in Switzerland and at Oxford University in England.

Mentoring and networking

You’ll closely collaborate alongside experienced and seasoned faculty who will get to know you and your goals. Our alumni also come back to campus to connect with current students and offer advice—and most importantly, they actively seek to hire our graduates.

Hands-on research

You’ll have the opportunity to participate in nationally competitive research internships at prestigious institutions for academic credit or to earn income. You’ll also publish papers and present findings at local and national conferences.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree?

Upon completing the mechanical engineering program, you'll be equipped for diverse career opportunities in the field of mechanical engineering.

Design engineering

Design and develop mechanical systems and devices for various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

Manufacturing engineering

Oversee the manufacturing process, optimizing production efficiency and quality while minimizing costs.

Product development

Lead the development of new products from concept to market, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure product success.

HVAC Engineering

Design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Biomedical engineering

Develop medical devices and technologies, contributing to advancements in healthcare and improving patient outcomes.

Aerospace engineering

Design aircraft and spacecraft systems, ensuring safety, performance, and reliability in aerospace applications.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

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Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.

Department of Physics & Engineering


Location

Barnes Academic Center (BAC) 244

Contact

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Brian Beecken

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Alyssa Hamre Kontak

Assistant Professor of Physics

Bio >

Julie Hogan

Julie Hogan

Associate Professor of Physics

Bio >

Nathan Lindquist

Nathan Lindquist

Professor of Physics

Bio >

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Wayne Raman-Nair

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Keith Stein

Keith Stein

Professor of Physics

Bio >

Shensheng Tang

Shensheng Tang

Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Nathan Lemke

Nathan Lemke

Adjunct Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

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Jason Stroup

Adjunct Instructor of Physics and Engineering

Bio >

Thomas Greenlee

Thomas Greenlee

Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

Richard Peterson

Richard Peterson

University Professor of Physics Emeritus

Bio >

7

National Science Foundation fellowships earned by alumni

#5

best research university in Minnesota

- Academic Influence

Student Support

Your support team

At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.

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Career coaching and preparation

A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.

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Academic advising

No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.

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Tutoring and academic support

The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.

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Faith formation

As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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Become A Bethel Student

Apply now

You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.

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Find your fit

Explore related programs

Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.

Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements