Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering – Online

Introduction

A degree in mechanical engineering opens a wide array of career paths across various industries. Mechanical engineers are involved in the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, and they play critical roles in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, robotics, and manufacturing.

With a master’s degree, students gain deeper expertise in areas like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and computational engineering, positioning themselves for advanced roles in research and development, engineering management, or specialized fields like biomechanics or renewable energy.

A student might choose to pursue a master’s degree in mechanical engineering online-only for several compelling reasons. One of the primary benefits is the flexibility that remote learning offers. Students can tailor their schedules around commitments, making it possible to advance their education without sacrificing employment or family obligations.

This is particularly advantageous for working professionals who wish to continue gaining industry experience while earning their degree, or for those who may not have access to a nearby institution offering a specialized program. A master’s degree can lead to higher earning potential and eligibility for leadership positions, as well as the ability to work on more complex and innovative projects.

Additionally, the global accessibility of online programs means that students can choose from top universities and specialized programs worldwide, without the need to relocate, thereby expanding their educational and career opportunities. Students can also save on costs associated with commuting, housing, and relocating, making education more accessible and affordable.

Moreover, the diverse, global cohort typical of online programs offers students the opportunity to network with peers and professionals from various cultural and industrial backgrounds, enriching their learning experience and broadening their professional network.

Online Master’s Programs in Mechanical Engineering

Pursuing an online master’s degree in mechanical engineering offers significant flexibility, career advancement opportunities, and life-long skills in time management and independent learning. It enables students to continue their professional growth while gaining specialized knowledge, leading to diverse and high-impact career paths. However, careful consideration of program quality, structure, and admission requirements is crucial for making the most of this educational journey. An overview of some of the top online-only mechanical engineering master’s programs can be found here:

Institution	Location	Accreditation	Credit Hours	GRE Requirement
Purdue University	West Lafayette, IN	ABET, HLC	30	Contingent on BS accreditation
Georgia Institute of Technology	Atlanta, GA	SACSCOC	30	Yes
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor	Ann Arbor, MI	ABET, HLC	30	Not required
Michigan State University	East Lansing, MI	HLC	30	Not required
Michigan Technological University	Houghton, MI	HLC	30	Not required
University of Illinois	Urbana, IL	HLC	32	Not required
Iowa State University	Ames, IA	HLC	30	Not required
North Carolina State University	Raleigh, NC	HLC	30	Not required
University of Central Florida	Orlando, FL	HLC	30	Not required
Stanford University	Stanford, CA	HLC	45	Not required
Johns Hopkins University	Baltimore, MD	HLC	30	Not required
University of California – Los Angeles	Los Angeles, CA	WASC	36	Yes
University of Southern California	Los Angeles, CA	WASC	27	Not required
University of Wisconsin – Madison	Madison, WI	HLC	30	Not required
Colorado State University	Fort Collins, CO	HLC	30	Not required
University of Alabama	Tuscaloosa, AL	HLC	30	Contingent on  BS accreditation
University of Texas – Austin	Austin, TX	HLC	30	Not required
University of North Dakota	Grand Forks, ND	HLC	30	Not required
Kennesaw State University	Kennesaw, GA	ABET, HLC	30	Contingent on GPA
University of Washington	Seattle, WA	HLC	42	Yes
University of Arizona	Tucson, AZ	HLC	32	Contingent on BS accreditation
University of Houston	Houston, TX	SACSCOC	30	Contingent on BS accreditation
Villanova University	Villanova, PA	HLC	30	Not required
University of Delaware	Newark, DE	HLC	30	Not required

No GRE/GMAT Online Mechanical Engineering Programs

To gain admission to a master’s program in mechanical engineering, applicants generally need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field from an accredited institution. Most programs require a minimum GPA, often around 3.0, though this can vary. Strong mathematical, analytical, and technical skills are essential.

Additional requirements typically include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing the degree, and sometimes relevant work experience. Some programs may also require GRE scores, though this requirement is increasingly being waived. Here are the remaining schools that do not require a GRE score:

Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Programs

Affordability is a critical factor when choosing a master’s program in engineering, as tuition costs can significantly impact both immediate financial stability and long-term career investments. For many students, finding a program that offers high-quality education without excessive debt is essential for making advanced education accessible and sustainable.

These affordable options provide excellent value for students seeking to advance their careers in engineering without incurring overwhelming debt. Several institutions provide competitive tuition rates for their master’s in engineering programs, making them more accessible to a broader range of students:

1. Purdue University offers a rate of $883 per credit hour
2. Iowa State University offers a tuition rate of $818 per credit hour
3. Michigan State University charges less than $1,000 per credit hour
4. The University of North Dakota has a rate of $887 per credit hour

Accelerated Online Mechanical Engineering Programs

Accelerated and dual degree master’s programs in mechanical engineering offer innovative pathways for students to advance their education and career goals efficiently. Accelerated programs are designed to condense the traditional timeline of a master’s degree, allowing students to complete their studies in a shorter period, often within one year of full-time enrollment. This fast-tracked approach enables students to enter or advance in the workforce more quickly, combining rigorous coursework with practical experiences to accelerate their career growth. Here are some examples:

1. John Hopkins University: Students completing an “all-course” degree will successfully complete a coordinated sequence of ten courses. A master’s essay or thesis is not required for this degree, which typically requires three to four semesters of study.
2. University of Wisconsin – Madison: The MS Mechanical Engineering degree with named options in Accelerated Program and Modeling and Simulation in Mechanical Engineering can take approximately three terms (one calendar year) to complete. These programs include only coursework.

Dual degree programs, on the other hand, allow students to pursue two degrees simultaneously, such as a master’s in mechanical engineering alongside another graduate degree, like an MBA or a related engineering discipline. This option is ideal for those seeking to integrate technical expertise with management skills or expand their knowledge across multiple fields. By pursuing a dual degree, students can gain a comprehensive skill set that enhances their versatility and marketability in the job market, ultimately providing a broader educational experience and a competitive edge:

1. University of North Dakota: A master of engineering degree (M.Eng.) is an ideal degree designed to fast-track your career options in a variety of industries. The UND combined B.S. and M.S. degree program allows you to achieve a graduate-level education quickly and efficiently.
2. University of Michigan: The combined B.S. and M.S. degree program allows you to achieve a graduate-level education quickly and efficiently in 5 years instead of 6 to 7 years.

Career Outlook

A master’s degree in mechanical engineering opens up a wide array of career opportunities across various industries, reflecting the field’s extensive applicability and demand. This advanced degree not only deepens technical knowledge but also enhances problem-solving and management skills, preparing graduates for roles that require both sophisticated engineering expertise and strategic thinking. The evolving landscape of technology, coupled with the growing emphasis on sustainability and innovation, drives the need for skilled mechanical engineers who can tackle complex challenges in diverse sectors.

Mechanical engineers with a master’s degree are well-positioned for high-demand roles in industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and robotics. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady growth rate of around 4% for mechanical engineering jobs through 2031, which is about average compared to other professions. This growth is driven by the need for new technologies and the continual improvement of existing systems.

The salary prospects for individuals with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering are generally strong. According to recent data, the median annual wage for mechanical engineers in the United States is approximately $90,000. However, those with a master’s degree often earn more, with potential salaries ranging from $95,000 to $120,000, depending on factors such as industry, location, and level of experience. Specialized roles, leadership positions, and roles in high-demand sectors can command even higher salaries. Here are some job examples:

• Aerospace Engineer: Design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment. They work on improving the safety, performance, and efficiency of air and space vehicles. Aerospace engineers often focus on specific areas such as propulsion systems, structural design, or avionics. They may work for government agencies, aerospace companies, or defense contractors.
• Automotive Engineer: Focus on the design, development, and testing of vehicles and their components. They work to enhance vehicle performance, safety, and fuel efficiency, and may be involved in everything from engine design to electronics. Automotive engineers typically work for car manufacturers, suppliers, or research institutions.
• Energy Systems Engineer: Work on designing and optimizing energy systems, including renewable energy technologies, power generation, and energy efficiency solutions. They analyze energy use, develop new technologies, and implement systems to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. These engineers are often employed by energy companies, environmental organizations, or government agencies.
• Robotics Engineer: Design, build, and maintain robotic systems used in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries. They work on automating processes, developing new robotic technologies, and improving the functionality and efficiency of robots. Robotics engineers often work for technology firms, or manufacturing companies.
• Manufacturing Engineer: Manufacturing engineers focus on optimizing production processes and improving the efficiency of manufacturing systems. They work on designing and implementing manufacturing methods, improving product quality, and reducing production costs. These engineers are commonly employed in industries such as automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and electronics.
• Thermal Systems Engineer: Specialize in the design and analysis of systems involving heat transfer, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and thermal management in electronics. They work to ensure that systems operate efficiently and effectively while managing thermal loads and improving energy use. These engineers often work in industries related to building systems, electronics, or energy.
• Product Development Engineer: Product development engineers are involved in the entire lifecycle of a product, from initial concept through design, testing, and manufacturing. They work closely with cross-functional teams to develop new products, improve existing ones, and bring innovative solutions to market. Product development engineers are employed across various sectors, including consumer products, electronics, and industrial equipment.
• Systems Engineer: Focus on the design, integration, and management of complex systems throughout their lifecycle. They work to ensure that all components of a system function together effectively and efficiently, addressing both technical and operational requirements. Systems engineers are found in sectors such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and information technology.

Overall, a master’s degree in mechanical engineering equips graduates with advanced skills that are highly sought after in a variety of fields. The combination of strong technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of complex systems makes these professionals valuable assets in driving innovation and addressing global challenges across multiple industries.