We Engineer Excellence

Student Organizations

Find Your Community of Engineers

Student organizations at the Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering are where students connect, collaborate and grow as future engineers.

Through hands-on engineering projects, professional networking, industry engagement and community outreach, BCOE organizations help students develop technical skills, leadership experience and lasting friendships.

Why Join?

Build skills, networks and belonging through hands-on experiences

From nationally recognized professional societies to student-led technical teams, BCOE organizations reflect the diversity and creativity of engineering.

BCOE students collaborating on an engineering design project

Projects

Design and build engineering solutions through hands-on projects, technical teams and competitions.

Engineering students participating in a professional development event

Professional Development

Attend networking events, industry tours, guest speakers and workshops that support career readiness.

BCOE students leading a K-12 STEM outreach activity

K–12 Outreach

Inspire future engineers through STEM outreach while building leadership, mentorship and communication skills.

Explore Organizations

Find the organization that fits your interests

Use the cards below to learn more about each BCOE student organization and connect through available social channels.

men and women members of ACM casually dressed posing outdoor in a grassy area

Association of Computing Machinery (ACM)

ACM is the largest student-run technical organization with a focus on computer science.

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ACM is the largest student-run technical organization with a focus on computer science. Our goal is to help members develop their technical and professional skills to succeed in both academics and the tech industry. We achieve this by offering coding workshops, career development events, hackathons, and networking opportunities that empower students to grow, collaborate, and reach their full potential.

members of AIChE posing outdoors beneath a shade tree

American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)

AIChE connects chemical, materials science and environmental engineering students through a vibrant community and valuable resources.

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AIChE connects chemical, materials science, and environmental engineering students through a vibrant community and valuable resources. Members build lasting relationships while accessing opportunities like plant tours, industry talks, and the annual AIChE Industry Night. Engage with professionals and showcase your skills in competitions like the Chem-E Car at regional conferences, enhancing your career and network.

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American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

ASME seeks to develop well-rounded engineers who are experienced and ready for the real world.

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ASME seeks to develop well-rounded engineers who are experienced and ready for the real world. We are an organization driven by a love for engineering and a recognition of the global need for competent engineers. Through the various projects we are involved in, we can gain invaluable engineering experience before moving into the workforce.

Connect: Instagram
BMES women and men dressed in the black pants and branded navy t-shirts

BioMedical Engineering Society (BMES)

BMES unites students interested in biomedical engineering, biotechnology and healthcare.

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BMES unites students interested in biomedical engineering, biotechnology, and healthcare, fostering academic and professional growth. We offer guest lectures, resume workshops, technical events, project teams, and mentorship programs. Our goal is to help members build essential skills for careers in academia or industry while encouraging collaboration, innovation, and networking within the dynamic field of biomedical engineering.

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Cybersecurity (C)

Cyber is a group dedicated to advancing computer security knowledge through experimentation and competition.

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Cyber is a group dedicated to advancing computer security knowledge through experimentation and competition. We compete in several collegiate competitions (CCDC, CPTC, ISTS, Hivestorm, etc.) and CTFs. If you're interested in computer security, ethical hacking, or want to join a strong community of Linux enthusiasts and cybersecurity learners, Cyber is the club for you. All experience levels are welcome.

Engineers without Borders

Engineers Without Borders (EWB)

EWB does community-based engineering projects aimed at helping people.

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EWB does community-based engineering projects aimed at helping people. We are currently running two projects: a water filtration device and a soil sampling robot. These projects empower students to apply engineering skills to real-world problems, promote sustainability, and support underserved communities. Members gain hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact through collaboration, innovation, and service-driven design.

FSAE_Michigan competition with vehicle

Formula Society of Automotive Engineers-Highlander Racing (FSAE)

FSAE is dedicated to designing, building and racing electric formula-style race cars.

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FSAE is dedicated to designing, building, and racing electric formula-style race cars. Each spring, the team competes in a global event showcasing innovative vehicle designs and engineering skills. This competition showcases automotive expertise and teamwork, offering opportunities to connect with industry professionals and gain valuable experience in engineering, project management, and professional networking.

men and women casually dressed and sitting striking comical poses

Gamespawn (GSP)

GSP is a premier game development club dedicated to uniting diverse game developers from all disciplines.

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GSP is a premier game development club dedicated to uniting diverse game developers from all disciplines, including programmers, artists, writers, producers, sound designers, and composers. We support student-led projects, workshops, industry talks, and significant events like Global Game Jam and California Collegiate Game Jam. Gamespawn welcomes developers of all skill levels to grow, collaborate, and create amazing games together.

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Highlander Space Program (HSP)

HSP is a student-led organization dedicated to designing, manufacturing, testing and launching liquid rockets.

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HSP is a student-led organization dedicated to designing, manufacturing, testing, and launching liquid rockets. Our mission is to provide a platform for students to develop advanced engineering skills through collaborative, multidisciplinary teamwork. By tackling complex rocketry challenges, HSP fosters innovation, hands-on learning, and technical excellence, serving as a central hub for aspiring aerospace engineers and enthusiasts.

Members of Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers at a table presenting and tabling

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

As the local chapter of IEEE, the organization provides technical, social and professional development in engineering.

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As the local chapter of IEEE, we aim to provide engineers with technical, social, and professional development in the engineering field. Our goal is to be a leading engineering organization, offering opportunities for growth beyond the classroom through career-focused events, hands-on technical workshops, and engaging social activities that support students in advancing their skills and building lasting professional connections.

Members of Material Research Society standing by their table

Material Research Society (MRS)

MRS seeks to build a dynamic and interactive community of materials researchers.

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From a national perspective, the Materials Research Society aims to promote communication for the advancement of interdisciplinary materials research and technology to improve the quality of life. Based on this, we seek to build a dynamic and interactive community of materials researchers such that all materials disciplines convene, collaborate, integrate, and advocate through workshops, outreach, networking, and hands-on research opportunities.

Connect: Instagram
National Society of Black Engineers

National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)

NSBE aims to increase the presence of culturally responsible Black engineers.

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NSBE aims to increase the presence of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and contribute positively to their communities. This is achieved through study jams, professional growth events with industry partners, and community outreach. NSBE also hosts conventions that promote leadership development, networking, and provide valuable job and internship opportunities for members.

Connect: Instagram
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Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)

SHPE empowers the Hispanic community to reach its fullest potential and impact the world through STEM.

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SHPE empowers the Hispanic community to reach its fullest potential and impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support, and development. We offer interactive workshops and hands-on experience through projects like the Solar Boat. Our mission is to provide exceptional resources and inspire future engineers and scientists through community events and outreach programs.

four women members wearing black t-shirts and purple lanyards smiling at the photographer

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

SWE is a nonprofit international organization dedicated to empowering women in STEM and engineering.

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SWE is a non-profit international organization dedicated to empowering women in STEM and engineering. We provide opportunities for academic and professional growth through events like Bourns Science and Engineering Day, Research Networking Night, and Evening with Industry. SWE fosters a strong, supportive community for women to explore, grow, and thrive in their engineering journeys.

men and women members of Tau Beta Pi posing outdoors most wearing business attire

Tau Beta Pi (TBP)

Founded in 1885, TBP is the second-oldest national honor society and represents all engineering disciplines.

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Founded in 1885, TBP is the second-oldest national honor society and the only honor society that represents all engineering disciplines. This prestigious honor society accepts members with distinguished scholarship and exemplary character as students in engineering. Members engage in service, leadership, and professional development activities, fostering a community of excellence, integrity, and lifelong commitment to the engineering profession.

Theta Tau student standing by a BCOE decoration

Theta Tau (TT)

Theta Tau is the only co-ed professional engineering fraternity founded on learning outside the classroom.

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Theta Tau is the only co-ed professional engineering fraternity founded on the principle of providing a place to learn outside the classroom with like-minded individuals. Our focus on brotherhood, professionalism, and service creates strong bonds and lasting connections. Through events, mentorship, and outreach, we help shape the next generation of leaders in engineering and beyond while fostering personal and professional growth.

Women In Computing members standing with a banner during travel

Women In Computing (WINC)

WINC is dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals in tech, focusing on women and marginalized genders.

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WINC is dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals in tech, focusing on women and marginalized genders. WINC believes everyone deserves equal opportunities in computer science careers. We offer inclusive events, technical workshops, mentorship from industry and academic role models, research opportunities, scholarships, and an annual women-centric hackathon, fostering a welcoming community that champions diversity and professional growth.

Student Organization Awards

Recognizing leadership, service and impact

Each year, BCOE celebrates student organizations and leaders whose work strengthens community, advances hands-on learning and supports student success across the college.

BCOE students at the 2025 Masquerade Gala check-in area
BCOE faculty and professional staff attending the annual gala
BCOE student receiving an award at the gala
BCOE students celebrating at the annual student gala

End of Year Gala

The End of Year Gala brings together student organizations, undergraduate researchers, scholarship recipients, peer mentors, faculty and staff to recognize student achievement and celebrate the communities that help BCOE students thrive.

Student Organization Awards

Open each category to view recent award recipients.

Outstanding Organization of the Year
  • 2025: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
  • 2024: Highlander Space Program (HSP)
  • 2023: American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
Leader of the Year
  • 2025: Pajaka Lakshmin
  • 2024: Eric Huitt
  • 2023: Rachel Itow
People’s Choice Award
  • 2025: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
Event of the Year
  • 2025: Rose Hack — Women In Computing (WINC)
  • 2024: Sprout and About — SWE, BMES and BCOE Leadership Council
  • 2023: Dodgeball Tournament — BMES
Most Improved
  • 2025: Women In Computing (WINC)
  • 2024: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
  • 2023: Highlander Space Program (HSP)
Community Engagement
  • 2025: American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
  • 2024: Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES)
  • 2023: Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
K–12 Outreach
  • 2025: Bourns Next Generation Outreach — SWE, SHPE, NSBE and BMES
  • 2024: Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
  • 2023: National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
Outstanding Project
  • 2025: Chem E Car — AIChE
  • 2024: Solar Boat — SHPE
Recognition Process

Start Your Own BCOE Student Organization

Learn what it means to become a BCOE recognized organization, what qualifications are required and how the review process works.

What is a BCOE recognized organization?

A professional club, organization or society is defined as an organized group functioning under approved bylaws with a faculty advisor within the college. Its officers are primarily BCOE majors, with a 50% minimum, and its membership consists of more than 70% BCOE majors.

The organization is self-funded and not part of a grant or research project.

What qualifications do you need to be a BCOE recognized organization?
  • Minimum two complete cycles of leadership change, such as two previous presidents and one current president.
  • Official Student Life organization status.
  • Minimum of 10 active undergraduate BCOE students.
  • History of external or internal funding strategies. The organization should be self-funded, not under a grant or existing college program.
  • BCOE faculty mentor preferred or staff mentor.
  • Professional or national chapters and organizations are preferred. This means the organization is recognized by or associated with a larger chapter, either nationally or internationally.

For example, IEEE at UCR is part of the larger organization, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, an American 501(c)(3) professional association for electronics engineering, electrical engineering and other related disciplines.

What are the perks of being a recognized BCOE organization?
  • Participation in Match Challenge, a monthlong fundraising event exclusive to BCOE recognized organizations.
  • Use of BCOE conference room spaces for events and meetings, including weekend events, with proper approvals.
  • Professional training and support for event hosting, leadership techniques, conference preparation and safe execution of projects for competitions.
How do we apply?

Organizations interested in BCOE recognition can submit the recognition form for review.

Apply for Recognition

What are the deadlines and review process?

Applications open during Spring Quarter. The closing date for applications will match the last day of the Spring Quarter.

The Professional Development Coordinator will review applications as part of the first review and provide feedback if needed. Once approved by the Professional Development Coordinator, the application will be reviewed by the director of Student Success and then taken to the BCOE associate dean of student academic affairs. If approved by both, it will be sent to the BCOE dean for final approval.

Reviews occur over the summer. If fully approved as a BCOE recognized organization, the new club will be required to attend Leadership Council Fall training and be introduced to the Leadership Council as an official organization.