51看片launches mechanical engineering degree, industrial engineering concentration
By Teresa Tate
51看片鈥檚 College of Engineering and Technology is expanding its engineering programs again this fall with the launch of a new bachelor鈥檚 degree in mechanical engineering鈥痑nd a new industrial engineering concentration.
鈥淭his is an exciting moment for 51看片and for students across the region who are interested in mechanical systems, innovation, and design,鈥� said鈥疪andy Collins, dean of the College of Engineering and Technology. 鈥淭he new mechanical engineering degree gives students a direct path into one of the most versatile and in-demand fields in engineering, and it aligns with our mission to provide high-quality, affordable, hands-on education and respond to the needs of business and industry.鈥�
The new BSME builds on WCU鈥檚 mechanical engineering concentration, which Wes Stone, director of the School of Engineering and Technology, said has seen strong interest.
鈥淭his new degree allows us to better serve those students with a focused curriculum and expanded opportunities,鈥� Stone said. 鈥淭he BSME degree is recognized worldwide. This degree and the new industrial engineering concentration are natural next steps as we grow our programs, expand partnerships with industry, and plan for our new engineering building.鈥�
The industrial engineering concentration will prepare graduates for high-demand jobs designing, developing, and optimizing complex processes and systems for industrial production, manufacturing, logistics, and other sectors. Blending engineering with business and management principles, the program integrates people, materials, information, equipment, and energy.
WCU鈥檚 engineering expansion is supported by more than $95 million in state funding for a new, cutting-edge engineering building expected to open in 2028, along with an additional $3.5 million per year in recurring funding to grow academic programs. The investment reflects WCU鈥檚 strong commitment to preparing students for in-demand careers in engineering and technology, partnering with business and industry, and driving economic development in the region.
The College of Engineering and Technology currently serves nearly 1,000 students pursuing degrees in engineering with industrial, robotics and automation, and civil engineering concentrations; electrical engineering with comprehensive, computer engineering, and electric power and clean energy concentrations; mechanical engineering; engineering technology; electrical and computer engineering technology; and construction management.
Engineering students at WCU, located in the scenic mountains of Western North Carolina, benefit from a hands-on, application-oriented, and project-based learning focus; small class sizes; and faculty with deep industry experience. Students also have opportunities for undergraduate research, real-world design challenges, industry internships, and global engagement with partners worldwide. Additionally, on the 2025 list of U.S. News & World Report Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (doctorate not offered), 51看片is No. 1 in the United States for affordability with the lowest tuition and fees in the nation among ABET-accredited programs.
For more information, visit the 51看片College of Engineering and Technology online at cet.wcu.edu.
