Education Research Current About VU Amsterdam NL
Login as
Prospective student Student Employee
Bachelor Master VU for Professionals
Exchange programme VU Amsterdam Summer School Honours programme VU-NT2 Semester in Amsterdam
PhD at VU Amsterdam Research highlights Prizes and distinctions
Research institutes Our scientists Research Impact Support Portal Creating impact
News Events calendar Woman at the top
Israël and Palestinian regions Culture on campus
Practical matters Mission and core values Entrepreneurship on VU Campus
Organisation Partnerships Alumni University Library Working at VU Amsterdam
Sorry! De informatie die je zoekt, is enkel beschikbaar in het Engels.
This programme is saved in My Study Choice.
Something went wrong with processing the request.
Something went wrong with processing the request.

Solve current issues using innovative technology

Tackling technical problems in depth

How do you ensure that a bridge can withstand an earthquake? How do you make a safe but spectacular rollercoaster? Can you use 3D printing to create a cargo ship? What improvements can you envisage for mobile devices and e-bikes?

Mechanical engineers devise, design, create and improve all kinds of machines, constructions, processes and techniques. For any social question that requires a high-tech answer, a mechanical engineer will be part of the solution.

The programme has an innovative structure, delivered by lecturers from both VU Amsterdam and the University of Twente.

Most of the lectures you attend will take place in Amsterdam. From time to time, you will travel to Enschede, because some of the lessons you will get there for example for laboratory work. This means that you are regularly in Enschede for two consecutive days. Are you interested in learning more about the program? Explore the program on the University of Twente's website. Want to know more about the collaboration between VU and UT? Find out more about this partnership here.

The start date of this programme is September 1st.

The programme consists of three years. Each year has 2 semesters, so a total of 6 semesters. In the first semester of the third year, semester 5, you can choose a minor based on your own interest. 

Semester 1: Design of Structures & Machines

Designing structures and machines is the essence of mechanical engineering. In the first semester, you will be introduced to various disciplines of the program, such as mechanics, materials science and manufacturing technologies. For example, you will learn how to determine the stiffness and strength of a structure and how different products can be produced.

Project: Design and build a functioning machine
In this semester's project, you will design a machine together with fellow students. With this machine you can participate in a mechanical competition in, for example, curling, golf or cornhole. You will go through all the steps of a systematic design process. You will receive training in the state-of-the-art workshop of the University of Twente, which has opened in 2025, so that you can make the prototype of your machine yourself.

The focus of this semester is on getting to know the academic environment, community building and learning how to study.

Courses

  • Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
  • Mathematics: Linear Algebra & Calculus 1
  • Statics
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Manufacturing
  • Materials Science: Metals & Alloys
  • Continuous Assessment 1
  • Project & Academic Skills 1: Design of Structures & Machines
  • 1st semester

    Semester 1: Design of Structures & Machines

    Designing structures and machines is the essence of mechanical engineering. In the first semester, you will be introduced to various disciplines of the program, such as mechanics, materials science and manufacturing technologies. For example, you will learn how to determine the stiffness and strength of a structure and how different products can be produced.

    Project: Design and build a functioning machine
    In this semester's project, you will design a machine together with fellow students. With this machine you can participate in a mechanical competition in, for example, curling, golf or cornhole. You will go through all the steps of a systematic design process. You will receive training in the state-of-the-art workshop of the University of Twente, which has opened in 2025, so that you can make the prototype of your machine yourself.

    The focus of this semester is on getting to know the academic environment, community building and learning how to study.

    Courses

    • Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
    • Mathematics: Linear Algebra & Calculus 1
    • Statics
    • Mechanics of Materials
    • Manufacturing
    • Materials Science: Metals & Alloys
    • Continuous Assessment 1
    • Project & Academic Skills 1: Design of Structures & Machines

Change your future with the Mechanical Engineering programme

Change your future with the Mechanical Engineering programme

After the Bachelor’s programme, you can specialise further by following a Master’s programme. As a graduate of Mechanical Engineering you could work as a maintenance engineer, a production manager or a designer at companies like Shell, KLM or Tata Steel.

Explore your future prospects
Two students solving a mechanical problem

Quick links

Homepage Culture on campus VU Sports Centre Dashboard

Study

Academic calendar Study guide Timetable Canvas

Featured

VUfonds VU Magazine Ad Valvas Digital accessibility

About VU

Contact us Working at VU Amsterdam Faculties Divisions
Privacy Disclaimer Veiligheid Webcolofon Cookies Webarchief

Copyright © 2025 - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam