The Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering has partnerships with Western Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado and Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado. These partnerships allow students to earn a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from CU Boulder while taking all courses on the Western Slope.

The first two years of the program are taught by faculty at either Western Colorado University or Colorado Mesa University, and the second two years are taught by CU Boulder faculty who live and work in Gunnison or Grand Junction full-time. Some electives may be available by video to broaden the variety of elective options available, but required mechanical engineering courses and most electives are taught in-person. 

In addition to smaller classes and lower overall tuitions, participants can take advantage of career fairs, research programs and other opportunities on the CU Boulder campus. When the time comes, students are also invited to join the graduation ceremonies in Boulder.