The Loras engineering program engages you in a rigorous, challenging, and comprehensive engineering, mathematics, and science study required to analyze, design, build, test, and operate engineered systems.

Earn your Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BS) or your Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BS) with your choice of concentrations: biomedical, computer, electro-mechanical, or general.

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Mechanical Engineering BS

Focus on movement through machine design, theoretically and in the lab, with the Loras mechanical engineering major. Courses include material science, machine design, heat transfer, and more. Explore high-demand career fields like manufacturing, biomedical, automotive, and aerospace.

Engineering BS

All our engineering tracks start with the same course sequence, allowing you to explore your options before deciding on an engineering track. 

The Engineering BS program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

Engineering BS Tracks

Biomedical

Learn to design and test electrical and mechanical systems that interface with biological systems.

Computer

Focus on the development of computer-controlled electrical and mechanical systems.

Electro-mechanical

Emphasize the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems with electronic controls.

Explore Internships & Careers

Internship opportunities offer real-world experiences. You can complete internships for academic credit or non-credit. Many students choose to do both. Here are some examples of companies Loras students interned for:

  • John Deere
  • REI
  • Unison Solutions
  • Rockwell-Collins
  • Lockheed-Martin
  • Zimmer-Biomet
  • MechDyne
  • RFA

Move on to graduate school or a career in one of these fields:

  • Process Engineer
  • Medical Doctor
  • Systems Engineer
  • Manufacturing
  • Design Engineer
  • Robotics
  • Automation
  • Quality Engineer
  • Financial Analyst
  • Patent Attorney

Course Highlights

Two Loras students at table with computer equipment and electrical equipment working on a project

NASA Astronautics

Hands-on, engineering-based activities and with data collection technology integration for real-world analysis. Project-based learning that includes sustainable habitat construction, strategic scientific planning and investigations, a two-stage rocket launch, heat shield design, cryogenics chamber design, robotics underwater “astronaut training,” collaborative teaming and global awareness development. Behind-the-scenes access to including tours of actual astronaut training and work facilities, such as NASA Johnson Space Center, Rocket Park and the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory. Hear from guest speakers about what it takes to work at NASA and the projects that prepare humans for space exploration.

Engineering Prototyping

This course serves as an introduction to engineering design prototypes. The primary focus will be on the design, prototype, and test processes associated with creating a prototype. These prototypes will target designing electromechanical or biomedical systems. Skills practiced include teaming, project and time management, locating materials and services, conflict resolution, experimental design, oral and written reports. Students will complete self-reflection and self-assessment exercises.

Engineering Labs

Learn to design and execute experiments across disciplines, including fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, heat transfer, thermodynamics, solid mechanics, materials science, electric circuits, and control systems.  Collect and analyze data, validate theory, and explore the field of study.

Experiential Learning / Research

Mississippi Basin Flood Modeling is a NASA funded project where you monitor and model flooding of the Mississippi River.

Composite Material Modeling is a NASA funded project where you will model particles suspended in a matrix, like solid rocket propellant.

Baja SAE is a Student project where you will design, build, and race a baja car at collegiate competitions across the country.

Engineering Students

Clubs & Orgs

We have a variety of opportunities for you to get involved from the moment you set foot on campus.

Association for Computing Machinery
Duhawk Racing
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
Engineering & Physics Club
Planetarium Club
Society of Women in Engineering (SWE)

Straight Talk from a Duhawk

I really liked the campus size and the engineering program was accredited. I have enjoyed the close connection I have with all of my professors. The small class sizes create a great environment to ask questions and learn topics in unique ways.

— Sara (’24)

Meet Your Professors

Loras College Crest

Devayan Bir  PhD

Assistant Professor of Engineering and Computer Science

Aaron Joy, Loras Professor

Aaron Joy  PhD

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Loras College Crest

Kenneth McLaughlin  PhD

Professor of Physics and Engineering
Heitkamp Planetarium Director

Loras College Crest

Danial Neebel  PhD PE

Professor Emeritus of Engineering and Computer Science

Professor Roy Pillers

Roy Pillers  PhD

Assistant Professor of Engineering

Engineering News

  • Fast Track to Innovation with Loras College’s Racing Club

    Feel the pulse of innovation and ambition as we gear up with the Loras College Racing Club team, a dynamic group of students whose dreams revolve around the revving engines and the checkered flags of motorsport. Today, JJ, Cam, Jacob, and Jake take us on a thrilling ride through their educational pursuits, from the classrooms of mechanical engineering and computer science right onto the gritty tracks of the Baja SAE project. More

  • Jeanie Kasper

    Worldwide Duhawk

    Jeanie Kasper (’19) approaches everything with an open mindset. Whether it’s joining clubs, pursuing her education, or advancing in her career, she views each endeavor as an opportunity for personal growth and positive impact. “Ultimately, I chose organizations and groups [at Loras] that allowed me to engage with the community, learn new things, or enhance my skill set.” This forward-thinking approach has earned her the title of our August Duhawk Dozen recipient! More

  • Engineering Awarded $155K Grant for Facilities Upgrades

    Loras College announced it was awarded a $155,000 grant from the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust to benefit students and faculty of the engineering program. More