The Engineering Degree That Goes Further
Thank you for your interest in the Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering at the University of San Diego!
We can't wait for you to learn more about the USD experience. Rooted in faith and academic excellence, it’s shaped by innovative opportunities, deep connections and a nurturing environment.
At USD, students flourish and thrive as we prepare them for professional success and empower them to make the world a better place.
Why Study at the Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering?
#1
Most Beautiful Campus
The Princeton Review
#1
Best Quality of Life
The Princeton Review
#2
Happiest Students
The Princeton Review
Top 10
Best Schools for Making an Impact
The Princeton Review
22
Average Class Size
15:1
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
180+
Clubs and Organizations
135
Study Abroad Programs
Explore Your Future Field of Study
Computer Science
Develop technical solutions across disciplines by applying math, logic, and engineering principles to algorithms, data structures, networks, machine learning, AI and more.
Electrical Engineering
Gain hands-on experience as innovators, designing, testing and building electrical components and systems that can transform how we shape the world.
Industrial and Systems Engineering
Use engineering, mathematics and analytics to optimize the efficiency, quality and productivity of complex systems and processes across virtually every industry, leveraging data-driven decision-making tools.
Integrated Engineering
Understand the profound impact engineers have on society, and tackle complex problems using a broad technical foundation across multiple areas of science and engineering, preparing you for a variety of engineering careers.
Mechanical Engineering
Design, build and test mechanical components, systems and devices that impact nearly every aspect of modern life, applying principles of energy, motion and materials to solve complex problems.
Integrated Engineering at USD stands out for its hands-on, interdisciplinary approach and incredibly supportive faculty. So much of our learning is project-based, making it exciting to apply concepts across mechanical, electrical and biomedical engineering while researching embedded systems. The program fosters collaboration and diverse perspectives, allowing me to bring my full identity into engineering. This community has given me a true sense of belonging and constantly challenges me to think critically about the technical, social and ethical impacts of my work.
How USD Prepares You for Success
As a USD engineering student, you’ll gain technical, teamwork and critical thinking skills to tackle real-world challenges, locally and globally.
$83,371
Average starting salary for undergraduates
100%
Percentage of USD engineering grads who received their first full-time job offer within three months of graduating
92%
Percentage of graduates who are employed, in graduate school, in military service or participating in full-time volunteer services
Top Employers in the Last 5 Years
- Amazon
- Boeing
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Clarity Design
- Qualcomm
- Dexcom
- General Atomics
- Northrop Grumman
- G2 Ops
- Tesla
Do You Have the Makings of a Torero?
At USD, we’re looking for innovative Changemakers — students who think boldly, dream big and are ready to make a positive impact on the world. As a first-year applicant, you should have a strong academic record that reflects a well-balanced, college-preparatory curriculum.
When we review your application, we consider more than grades. We look for leadership, community involvement, social justice efforts, service, special talents and faith commitments. These are qualities that reflect USD’s mission and values.
To apply, complete the Common Application and the accompanying USD Member Questions.
FAQs
All freshmen enter as undeclared and choose a major at the end of their first year. You can explore different fields first, and if you’re curious about engineering, include it in your interest areas so you can take relevant courses early and see if it’s the right fit.
The Core Curriculum includes four components: Competencies, Explorations, Foundations and Integration. By taking these courses, you can uncover potential majors and career paths while developing critical thinking, reasoning and problem-solving skills. This thoughtful exploration will guide you toward the major and career that’s right for you.
One of the defining features of the Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering is that every student earns a dual BS/BA degree (with the exception of those in the computer science program). This unique combination provides a more well-rounded skill set than many other engineering programs. You’ll develop strong technical, critical thinking, communication and leadership abilities but also a global perspective that empowers you to become what USD refers to as “Changemaking Engineers.”
At USD’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, undergraduates work closely with faculty on research projects, both during the school year and over the summer. These opportunities let students apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems, develop practical skills and contribute to published research. Funding and support are available through USD’s Office of Undergraduate Research and other programs on- and off-campus.
The Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering offers a variety of hands-on learning experiences, including capstone design projects and access to the state-of-the-art Belanich Engineering Center. One of the center’s standout features is Donald’s Garage, a space where students can prototype, build and test their ideas. USD also strongly encourages internships where students can connect with top organizations and employers.
The average class size at USD is about 22 students, though it may vary by college or program. Unlike many other engineering programs, class sizes at USD are intentionally small, enabling students to build meaningful, lasting relationships with their instructors. In addition, all courses are taught by experienced faculty members, not teaching assistants.
USD believes every student deserves access to a high-quality education. Most undergraduate students receive some form of financial assistance, including scholarships, grants, loans or work-study opportunities.
Yes! Engineering students at USD have the opportunity to study abroad in locations around the world. The spirit of changemaking is woven throughout the school’s programs, offering students a globally focused, innovation-driven framework for both personal and professional development.
Engineering students can join a variety of clubs, including the Society of Women Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Engineers for a Sustainable World, STEM Outreach Club, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers and more.
USD supports engineering students’ careers through personalized guidance from the Career Development Center and programs like the year-long Industry Scholars Program (ISP), which connects students with industry professionals, real-world projects and skill-building opportunities to prepare for successful careers.