New degree programs

A new undergraduate program were recently launched at the School of Mechanical Engineering.

Undergraduate double major in Mechanical Engineering and Earth Sciences, with an emphasis on Environmental Studies.

This program offers a unique interdisciplinary view of the interrelations between Mechanical Engineering and infrastructures on the one hand, and Earth Sciences and environmental and natural resources on the other. Searching for oil and gas, designing desalination systems and restoring natural conditions in polluted environments – are just a few examples of innovative activities requiring a combination of engineering skills with an understanding of geophysics. The program targets students with a multidisciplinary approach who wish to combine academic studies with practical and environmental challenges. This is a unique degree program aiming to equip students with physical, mathematical and computational tools, alongside enhanced awareness of the ethical and environmental aspects of engineering and earth sciences. Programs combining mechanical engineering and earth sciences are already offered to graduate students (MSc & PhD), but the double undergraduate major is unique - both in Israel and worldwide. Its goal is to create multidisciplinary experts: engineers who are also scientists in fields related to the earth and the utilization of energy resources, and are well versed in the environmental aspects of these areas. This undergraduate double major takes 4.5 years to complete – instead of 4 years for a regular degree in Mechanical Engineering and an additional 3 years for a degree in Earth Sciences. It is offered jointly by 3 participating TAU units: the School of Mechanical Engineering, the Dept. of Earth Sciences and the Porter School of Environmental Studies. Graduates will hold two full and separate degree certificates – one in Mechanical Engineering and the other in Earth Sciences.