Looking to get involved, build your network, and apply your skills outside the classroom? The College of Engineering is home to a wide variety of student organizations that offer hands-on experiences, leadership opportunities, and a strong sense of community. Explore the different organizations at the Undergraduate Student Fair at Engineering Kick-Off Day.
Meet Our Student Coordinator
Our Student Coordinator acts as a liaison between the College of Engineering and its many student organizations, helping to support events, foster collaboration, and ensure student leaders have what they need to succeed.
Ella Junge
Chemical Engineering and German IEP
In the COE, there are countless opportunities for students to get involved, from leadership roles and mentoring to undergraduate research or even studying abroad. The best part? A student can pursue all of these opportunities simultaneously.
coestudentcoord1@etal.uri.edu
College-wide Organizations
Black and Brown Women in Engineering Science Technology Sisterhood (BBWESTS)
BBWESTS supports and uplifts underrepresented women-identifying students in engineering and technology fields. Grounded in respect, equity, integrity, and leadership, we provide resources and opportunities to help our members succeed and build diverse, thriving communities.
Engineers for a Sustainable World (ESW)
ESW is a national nonprofit focused on sustainable solutions through design, education, and building. The URI chapter engages in projects like clean water initiatives in Guatemala and campus sustainability efforts. Open to all majors, ESW welcomes passionate students with innovative ideas to join the movement for environmental and social impact.
Hydrobotics
Hydrobotics is for students interested in robotics, marine science, and oceanography. Based at URI’s Narragansett Bay Campus with support from the Department of Ocean Engineering, we tackle diverse projects and prepare to compete in RoboNation’s Robosub and Roboboat competitions. Members can also pursue personal projects with guidance and funding from URI’s Undergraduate Research Initiative.
Marine Technology Society (MTS)
MTS advances the understanding and application of marine technology while fostering an inclusive community where all members are welcomed, respected, and encouraged to contribute equally.
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
NSBE supports the academic and professional success of Black engineering students through leadership training, mentoring, career services, and networking opportunities.
Rhody Racing
Founded in 2021, Rhody Racing challenges students from all majors to design, build, and compete with Formula and Baja SAE-style cars. We provide hands-on engineering experience and teamwork skills with no prior experience needed. Members find their role on one of our five design teams and grow through support and collaboration.
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
SHPE empowers Hispanic students to excel as innovators and leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math. We focus on professional development and career advancement to strengthen our community.
Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
SWE empowers women at URI to reach their full potential as engineers and leaders. Members engage in outreach, social events, professional development, and networking opportunities.
Theta Tau (Professional Engineering co-ed Fraternity)
Theta Tau is a co-ed professional engineering fraternity that fosters high professional standards and fraternal bonds among members. It focuses on shared career goals rather than social activities.
Women in Engineering Mentorship Program (WEM)
WEM builds a supportive network for women-identifying engineering students, pairing freshmen with upperclass mentors. We encourage a culture of encouragement and resilience, aiming to foster academic, social, and personal growth within URI’s College of Engineering.
Professional Chapters
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
AIAA at URI promotes aerospace education and advances knowledge of aeronautics and astronautics. We support members in pursuing careers in aerospace through events, networking, and community outreach.
American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
AIChE serves chemical engineering students and professionals from various universities. At URI, we aim to grow our chapter by engaging student members in activities that enhance learning and professional development.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
URI’s ASCE chapter connects students, professionals, and the public to promote sustainable infrastructure and advance civil engineering education and practice.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
ASME brings together engineers from students to executives, fostering a diverse community united by a passion for mechanical engineering and professional growth.
Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS)
EMBS is the largest international society for biomedical engineers. URI’s chapter unites students and professionals to explore innovations in biomedical engineering and connect with the global community.
Engineers Without Borders (EWB)
EWB partners with underserved communities to develop sustainable engineering solutions locally and abroad. The URI chapter works on real projects to build leadership and create lasting impact.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for humanity’s benefit.
Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
IISE is the leading professional society supporting industrial engineering and those focused on improving quality and productivity.
Honor Societies
Tau Beta Pi
Tau Beta Pi is the oldest engineering honor society and the second oldest collegiate honor society in the U.S. It recognizes engineering students who demonstrate high academic achievement and strong personal and professional integrity.
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering:
Chi Epsilon
Chi Epsilon invites civil engineering students based on their Scholarship, Character, Practicality, and Sociability. Membership honors students who exemplify these qualities through election by their chapter.
Department of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering:
Eta Kappa Nu (IEEE-HKN)
Eta Kappa Nu, the IEEE honor society, promotes excellence in education and the profession. It recognizes students who embody Scholarship, Character, and Attitude.
Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering:
Pi Tau Sigma
Pi Tau Sigma honors mechanical engineering students for engineering ability, scholarship, service, leadership, and integrity. The society fosters academic excellence and dedication to service, emphasizing Integrity, Service, and Leadership. It is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies.
Department of Ocean Engineering:
Omega Epsilon
Omega Epsilon is the honor society for ocean engineering, recognizing academic excellence and professional integrity among students in the field.
Looking for Additional Funding?
The College of Engineering Dean’s Office is happy to support recognized student organizations. Use this form to request funding from the Dean’s Office. Please note that funding is limited and should be used to fill gaps after other resources (departmental funds, fundraising, sponsorships) have been exhausted.
Looking to start a new organization?
In order to start a student organization in the College, there are 3 steps:
- Secure a faculty or staff advisor who can provide ongoing mentorship and support.
- Obtain administrative support from a department or the Dean’s Office.
- Notify the Dean’s Office by connecting with Rosetta Spino so the organization can be included in our official listings and website.