Top Mechanical Engineering Programs in California for Aspiring Engineers
Choosing the right school for mechanical engineering in California can have a big impact on your career. California is home to some of the top-ranked engineering colleges in the United States. With its strong economy, thriving tech sector, and connections to the aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy industries, studying mechanical engineering in California offers a lot of opportunities.
Here's a breakdown of the best colleges and universities in California for mechanical engineering based on academic reputation, employment outcomes, research facilities, and program strength.
Best Mechanical Engineering Universities in California
When you're looking to earn a mechanical engineering degree in California, consider program rankings, hands-on opportunities, and alumni success. Below are some of the top schools in the state.
Stanford University – School of Engineering
- Location: Stanford, CA
- Known for: World-class faculty, research focus, top-ranked graduate engineering program
- Specializations: Design, Robotics, Energy Systems, Biomechanics
Stanford’s mechanical engineering program blends technical education with research. Stanford encourages interdisciplinary learning in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and materials science. Faculty and labs are closely tied to Silicon Valley, so you get access to internships and startup opportunities.
University of California, Berkeley – College of Engineering
- Location: Berkeley, CA
- Known for: Strong undergraduate and graduate engineering programs
- Specializations: Thermal Systems, Dynamics, Controls, Materials
UC Berkeley has a solid reputation globally for mechanical engineering. The program combines theory with real-world applications. Students get to work in state-of-the-art labs and collaborate on award-winning research. If you’re interested in sustainability and clean technologies, Berkeley offers a great path.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Location: Pasadena, CA
- Known for: Highly selective, research-intensive programs
- Specializations: Applied Mechanics, Mechatronics, Aerospace Systems
Caltech offers a more intimate learning environment with a low student-to-faculty ratio. It’s ideal if you want to focus on innovation and research. With close ties to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Caltech is strong in aerospace engineering.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Known for: Broad engineering programs, diverse student projects
- Specializations: Fluid Mechanics, Nanotechnology, Mechanical Design
UCLA’s mechanical and aerospace engineering department offers flexible program paths. You can join design programs like the Super Mileage Vehicle Team and robotics competitions. The school also has great ties to California’s booming tech and entertainment industries.
University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – Jacobs School of Engineering
- Location: La Jolla, CA
- Known for: Cutting-edge research and coastal innovation
- Specializations: Computational Mechanics, Medical Devices, Aerospace
UCSD is home to world-class facilities, including wind tunnels, ocean engineering labs, and biomechanics research centers. If you like working on collaborative projects, UCSD supports group learning and innovation.
University of Southern California (USC) – Viterbi School of Engineering
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Known for: Strong alumni network, industry partnerships
- Specializations: Robotics, Control Systems, Sustainable Energy
USC Viterbi is ideal if you value mentorship, internships, and job placement. You’ll have the chance to work with top Los Angeles companies and startups in aerospace, defense, and energy sectors. Their research labs in artificial intelligence and robotics are among the best in the state.
Best CSU Schools for Mechanical Engineering Majors
If you are seeking a more affordable option without compromising on quality, many California State Universities offer excellent mechanical engineering programs with hands-on labs and strong ties to local industries.
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly SLO)
- Location: San Luis Obispo, CA
- Known for: "Learn by Doing" philosophy
- Specializations: Product Design, Manufacturing Engineering, HVAC Systems
Cal Poly SLO ranks high for undergraduate mechanical engineering. The curriculum focuses on practical problem-solving, and students work on industry-sponsored senior design projects. It’s a top choice if you want to enter the workforce right after graduation.
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
- Location: Long Beach, CA
- Known for: Affordable tuition and industry-aligned programs
- Specializations: CAD/CAM, Vehicle Systems, HVAC
CSULB is popular among students interested in automotive and HVAC engineering. Students benefit from internships in the aerospace and defense sectors in Southern California. The faculty are industry professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom.
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona)
- Location: Pomona, CA
- Known for: Project-based learning and strong ties to tech companies
- Specializations: Thermodynamics, Materials Science, Robotics
Cal Poly Pomona’s mechanical engineering program offers hands-on labs and internships with nearby companies. Students enjoy a well-rounded curriculum that prepares them for careers in manufacturing, aerospace, and design engineering.
What You Should Look for in a Mechanical Engineering College
Not all programs are the same. When researching schools in California for your bachelor’s or master’s in mechanical engineering, keep these points in mind:
- ABET accreditation – Ensures your program meets industry standards
- Hands-on labs – Critical for learning mechanical design and systems
- Internships and co-op programs – Help you gain experience and network
- Faculty expertise – Faculty with industry or research credentials
- Recruitment and career services – Support finding jobs after graduation
Engineering is a competitive field. Choose a school that gives you tools and guidance both inside and outside the classroom.
Related FAQs About Mechanical Engineering Schools in California
What is the best UC for mechanical engineering?
UC Berkeley and UCLA are among the top University of California campuses for mechanical engineering. UC Berkeley stands out for its research reputation and strong faculty, while UCLA offers great lab facilities and project-based learning.
Is Cal Poly a good school for mechanical engineering?
Yes, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo is widely regarded as one of the top undergraduate schools for mechanical engineering in the country. Its "learn by doing" approach prepares students for real-world engineering challenges.
Are there mechanical engineering programs in Southern California?
Yes, there are several top mechanical engineering programs in Southern California. USC, UCLA, UCSD, Cal Poly Pomona, and CSULB all offer strong programs with internship and job opportunities in industries like aerospace and automotive engineering.
What types of jobs can a mechanical engineering graduate get?
Mechanical engineering graduates can work as design engineers, systems engineers, manufacturing engineers, robotics specialists, HVAC engineers, or in research and development roles. Salaries vary, but the median annual wage for mechanical engineers in the U.S. was $96,310 in 2023 (Source: BLS).
