Western Carolina University Launches Mechanical Engineering Degree And An Industrial Engineering Concentration
This week, Western Carolina University’s College of Engineering and Technology expanded its degree programs with a new bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a new industrial engineering concentration.
“This is an exciting moment for WCU and for students across the region who are interested in mechanical systems, innovation, and design,” said Randy Collins, dean of the College of Engineering and Technology. “The 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.”
The new BSME builds on WCU’s mechanical engineering concentration, which Wes Stone, director of the School of Engineering and Technology, said has seen strong interest.
“This new degree allows us to better serve those students with a focused curriculum and expanded opportunities,” Stone said. “The 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.”
The industrial engineering concentration prepares students for high-demand jobs designing, developing, and optimizing complex industrial processes. The program blends principles from business management and engineering, integrating people materials, information, equipment, and energy.
WCU’s engineering expansion is supported by $95 million in state funds, including $3.5 million in recurring funds. 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.
