International Mechanical Engineering: Preparing students for a future not yet written

This Bachelor in International Mechanical Engineering offers a unique blend of multidisciplinarity, industry relevance and cutting-edge research. In this interview with Program Manager and Associate Professor, Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo, you’ll gain valuable insights into the unique features and benefits of this dynamic program.

A multidisciplinary approach

"This is a new concept for a mechanical engineering program," Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo shares. "Our program aims to prepare students for a future that is not yet written.”

By offering a solid foundation in mathematics and mechanics, combined with many other diverse courses, the program equips students with the necessary skills and adaptability to thrive in an ever-changing engineering landscape. This multidisciplinary approach is not often found in engineering programs.

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“I would say that this is quite unique,” Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo notes. “When you look into other programs, you see that they usually are much more focused on one specific area."

Reflecting on the industry's needs, Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo shares that "the intention is to provide the companies with multidisciplinary engineers.” And that this is something that is in high demand. “If you have knowledge on many different areas, that can boost your employability," she says. By nurturing a broad knowledge base and interdisciplinary skills, graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the industry, or to continue their studies on master’s level, but more on that later.

Company contacts and research connections

At University West, collaboration with industry is not just a buzzword; it's an integral part of the program. As you progress through the program, you'll have the chance to engage with companies through, for example, guest lectures, collaborative projects, and company visits. To further foster practical skills, Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo explains that "we also use software that is the same software used by professionals at these companies."

These interactions with companies and practical experiences provide students with real-world perspectives and a competitive edge.

The program also has a strong connection to the ongoing research at the university. Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo highlights, that “the program is built with the intention that our students will get the most updated knowledge from research.” Drawing on University West’s internationally renowned research expertise within areas such as additive manufacturing, non-destructive testing, robotics, production, and industry 4.0.

After graduation

The program offers multiple pathways forward for students who graduate. "After finishing their studies, they can either go straight to work in the industry or they can continue as master students," explains Maria Asuncion Valiente Bermejo. With a solid foundation in mathematics and mechanics, you'll lay the groundwork for a successful career, whether you choose to enter the industry directly or pursue further studies at the master's level. To ensure that the students have the option to pursue advanced studies the program offers the required courses enabling admission to master's programs, either at University West or at other universities.

Are you ready to embark on an educational adventure? Choose the International Mechanical Engineering program at University West and unlock your full potential as a future innovator and engineer!