Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Mechanical Engineering is to provide a highly respected, rigorous, professional education for mechanical engineering students; to conduct consequential research; and to provide technical assistance to our constituents.

Department Background

Mechanical Engineering has been a part of South Dakota State since the university was established in 1881. The degrees Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in mechanical engineering are offered at SDSU. Our graduates are employed throughout the world in business, industry and government positions.

The department occupies excellent modern facilities with well-equipped laboratories for both instruction and research.  Active student branches of four technical societies provide students with opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities that develop professional competence and leadership skills. Faculty members are student-focused and the environment for study and work is friendly and supportive.

The programs first official academic year was 1884-1885. Mechanical Engineering was one of the five original programs of study offered at the institution. The Mechanical Engineering program was first accredited in 1936.