Imagine

The College of Engineering and the College of Fine Arts have joined forces to provide students with an opportunity to combine their engineering studies with creative arts education through two options. Students can pursue an additional major alongside their primary engineering major, or they may opt for a bachelor's degree in Engineering Studies and Arts, a unique intercollege program that includes coursework from both colleges.

Engineering and arts students discuss their work at CMU's School of Architecture

Bachelor's degree program

Bachelor of Engineering Studies and Arts
The Bachelor of Engineering Studies and Arts (BESA) intercollege degree program combines the strengths of the College of Fine Arts and the College of Engineering. This degree is designed for students seeking to apply knowledge from dual fields to advance maker culture in novel and creative ways. Students choose from one of the following engineering concentrations: biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, materials science and engineering, or mechanical engineering, and an additional concentration in fine arts: architecture, art, design, drama, or music.

students sketch outdoors during class

Additional major

Engineering and Arts
The Engineering and Arts (EA) additional major allows engineering students to acquire formal practice and training in the creative arts while establishing a groundwork for interdisciplinary research to blend their interests seamlessly. Engineering students who are pursuing a primary major in chemical, civil, environmental, electrical and computer, materials science and engineering, or mechanical engineering can earn an additional major in Engineering and Arts. Students pursuing this additional major will choose a concentration from the College of Fine Arts’ School of Architecture, Art, Drama, or Music.

Student experience

Both the College of Engineering and the College of Fine Arts are committed to developing well-rounded students in and out of the classroom. Students are encouraged to participate in engineering-specific events, camps, and city-wide activities. With over 400 student-run organizations, Carnegie Mellon University offers unique opportunities for students of all backgrounds and interests.