Getting Started
Real questions. Straight answers.
Starting something new can feel like a lot—but you don't have to figure it out on your own. This page answers the questions students ask most when they're thinking about engineering at MCC. Whether you're wondering about classes, labs, calculators, or what your first semester will look like, we've got you covered.
What are the engineering classes at MCC like?
Our classes are small. No room in our building holds more than 32 students, and most classes average 10–24 people. That means you get real attention—not just a seat in a crowd. Your professor will know your name, and you'll get to know your classmates, too.
Can I do my whole degree online?
Not completely. Many courses are offered in flexible formats, but classes with lab work require some time on campus. You can see a full list of typical course offerings on the Advising page.
Math courses through Calculus II are available online. Science courses like Chemistry and Physics usually require on-campus lab attendance, though evening and summer options are sometimes available. Most general education courses—English, Government, History—are offered online regularly.
Why not just get my basics and start on engineering once I transfer?
This is a common mistake. Core courses like English, Government, and History matter—but engineering is a four-year program that starts the moment you take Calculus I and begin the calculus-based physics sequence.
Engineering courses build on each other. Classes you need in your senior year trace back to that very first calculus course. If you haven't completed classes like Differential Equations, Statics, Dynamics, or Circuits before you transfer, you'll still face a four-year timeline—no matter how many basics you've finished.
What kind of computer and calculator do I need?
Once you start engineering courses, you'll need a desktop or laptop that can run:
- SolidWorks
- MATLAB
- LabVIEW
Check the system requirements for each program to make sure your device is compatible.
For upper-level courses, a TI-89 or TI-Nspire CAS calculator is recommended. If you're just starting out, any graphing calculator will work.
What kind of resources do you have when I get stuck?
Engineering is challenging—and we know that. Here's how we support you:
Supplemental Instructors (SIs): Most engineering classes include an SI—a student who already took the course and did well. They sit in on class, hold review sessions, and are ready to help when you need it.
Tutoring (On-Campus and Online): MCC partners with Upswing to offer free online tutoring any time of day. In-person help is also available on campus.
Homework Nights: Twice a week, we host evening study sessions with a tutor on hand. It's a great way to stay on track and get questions answered in real time.
Your Professors: Your instructors are here for you, too. Just ask—we're happy to meet, explain, and work through problems with you.
However you learn best, we've got your back.