The Higher Learning Commission recently approved McPherson College to offer a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering starting in August 2026. The new degree further diversifies the college’s academic offerings and advances its position as a practical, future-oriented, and innovative campus.
The mechanical engineering degree builds on the college’s historic academic strengths in Automotive Restoration, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics while considering the local and regional economy.
“Developing this new academic program helps meet the specific needs of our local economy and expand our reach to meet labor needs in the broader automotive industry,” said McPherson College President Michael Schneider. “McPherson College will provide an academic program that many college-bound students seek, leveraging our strengths in math, science, and automotive restoration technology. And, it will engage area industries to offer students hands-on experiences.”
According to Amanda Gutierrez, vice president for automotive restoration, mechanical engineering comes after a national study to explore how McPherson College can build on the success of automotive restoration.
“In fall 2023, McPherson College contracted with the Center of Automotive Research (CAR), an internationally recognized, independent organization based in Detroit that researches significant issues related to the future of global mobility,” said Gutierrez. “The purpose of the study was to explore the viability of McPherson College starting an engineering program.”
After careful market analysis, CAR recommended that McPherson College leverage its strength in Automotive Restoration to develop comprehensive engineering and computer science programs, including foundational tracks like mechanical and electrical engineering. Building on the success of the automotive restoration program’s experiential learning model, the new engineering program will include industry-informed labs and ample co-op and internship opportunities.
Department of Labor statistics show that mechanical engineering is an in-demand job field with the number of open positions projected to grow by 10% annually. There are career opportunities in many fields, including agriculture, energy, transportation, and automation.
“This means that demand is going to continue to grow for mechanical engineers and our graduates will have a tremendous opportunity to begin their careers in a variety of fields,” Gutierrez said.