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    Jul 01, 2024  
2024-2025 Binghamton University Academic Guide 
  
2024-2025 Binghamton University Academic Guide

Mechanical Engineering 4+1 Programs

Location(s): Main Campus


BS/MS Mechanical Engineering Program


Only undergraduate students in the BS in Mechanical Engineering program can apply to the 4+1 program. A 4+1 BS in mechanical engineering and MS in mechanical engineering (project option) degree program enables mechanical engineering students to complete both degrees in a five-year period. Acceptance into the program requires a GPA of 3.3 or higher. If a student’s GPA is less than 3.3, they can apply and their application is considered on a case-by-case basis. Students interested in the program should begin by applying to the 4+1 degree program during their junior year. A 4+1 Intent Application is available on BU Brain. In addition, students must apply for formal admission to the Graduate School during their senior year. For more information about the MS degree core and area of emphasis (AOE) courses, refer to the Mechanical Engineering, MS  section of the Academic Guide.

In the 4+1 degree program, students may take up to two graduate-level courses as mechanical engineering or technical electives in the senior year. These two courses also count toward the MS degree requirements. For mechanical engineering electives that are co-listed as 400/500 level, students in the 4+1 degree program should register for the graduate-level course for the course to count toward the BS ME and the MS ME. Refer to the Mechanical Engineering, MS  section of the Academic Guide for the requirements for the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, project option.

Undergraduate credits: 128. Double counted credits: 6. Graduate credits: 30.

BS Mechanical Engineering/MS Materials Science and Engineering Program


A 4+1 BS in mechanical engineering and MS in materials science and engineering (thesis or project) degree program enables mechanical engineering students to complete both degrees in a five-year period. Acceptance into the program requires a GPA of 3.3 or higher. Students interested in the program should begin by applying to the 4+1 degree program during their junior year. A 4+1 Intent Application is available on BU Brain. In addition, students must apply for formal admission to the Graduate School during their senior year.

In the 4+1 degree program, students may take up to two graduate-level ME or MSE courses as mechanical engineering or technical electives in the senior year. These two courses also count toward the MS degree requirements. For mechanical engineering electives that are co-listed as 400/500 level, students in the 4+1 degree program should register for the graduate-level course for the course to count toward the BS ME and the MS MSE. Refer to the Materials Science and Engineering, MS section in the Graduate School  section of the Academic Guide for requirements.

Undergraduate credits: 128. Double counted credits: 6. Graduate credits: 30.

Typical Course Sequence


First Year through Senior Year (Years 1-4)


  • Take courses for a BS in Mechanical Engineering

Senior Year (Year 4)


  • Take two 500-level ME or MSE courses (as technical electives)*

* Counted for credits in both BS and MS curricula.

Graduate Year (Year 5)


  • Complete the required MSE coursework
  • Begin research with an advisor (one or two semesters)
  • Submission and oral defense of a master’s thesis (6 credits) or a thesis project (4 credits)

Other MSE Courses


BS-MBA Program


Students have the opportunity to complete both the BS in mechanical engineering and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in five years. Students should see the Watson College Advising Office for questions regarding the curriculum for the undergraduate degree and the School of Management graduate advising office for questions regarding the MBA program.

Additional Information about the Program


For more information on the Mechanical Engineering 4+1 programs, please refer to the Watson College 4+1 website or visit the Watson College Advising Office. To apply to a Mechanical Engineering 4+1 program, complete the 4+1 Intent Application, located on your my.binghamton portal.