Introduction
Online-only bachelor’s degree programs in mechanical engineering are relatively rare in the United States, though they are gradually becoming more available as demand for flexible education options grows. A few universities, such as Oregon State University and the University of Alabama, offer fully online programs, but most institutions still prioritize in-person instruction due to the hands-on nature of the field.
Some universities offer hybrid formats, where online coursework is combined with required in-person labs or short residencies to ensure that students receive the practical experience necessary for engineering education.
Online mechanical engineering programs differ from in-person programs primarily in their delivery format. Online programs offer greater flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace and from any location, which is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with other commitments.
However, online programs may require students to be more self-disciplined and proactive in managing their time. The hands-on, experiential learning that is crucial in mechanical engineering is often adapted through virtual labs, simulations, or hybrid components that require occasional campus visits. While the core curriculum and academic standards are typically the same, the mode of interaction with peers and instructors is different, relying heavily on digital communication tools.
Earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering requires a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. The program typically spans four years and includes coursework in areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and mechanical design. Students engage in both theoretical learning and practical applications through laboratory work, computer-aided design (CAD), and engineering projects. Additionally, many programs include internships or co-op experiences to provide hands-on industry experience. The curriculum often culminates in a capstone project where students solve real-world engineering problems. Success in the program demands strong analytical skills, creativity, and the ability to work collaboratively.
Online Bachelor’s Programs in Mechanical Engineering
An online-only bachelor’s program in mechanical engineering is well-suited for individuals who require flexibility due to personal or professional commitments. This option is ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without interrupting their employment or those who have family responsibilities that make attending traditional on-campus classes challenging. It also caters to students living in remote areas or those with mobility issues who may find it difficult to relocate or commute. An overview of each available program in the United States is detailed here:
Arizona State University
- Tempe, AZ
Credit Hours: 120
Resident Tuition: $582 (PCH)
Non-Resident Tuition: $677 (PCH)
Program Overview:
Mechanical engineering is a diverse and versatile field that plays a crucial role in industries like aerospace, construction, power, technology, and transportation. Mechanical engineers design, build, and control essential devices, machines, processes, and systems, including heating and cooling systems, solar power solutions, robotics, and electronics. Success in this field requires advanced knowledge of physics and mathematics to manage complex systems.
ECPI University
- Virginia Beach, VA
Credit Hours: 124
Tuition: $8,712 (PSR)
Program Overview:
Mechanical Engineering Technology offers practical career opportunities in design, testing, manufacturing, and operations, with a high demand for skilled workers due to the resurgence of modern manufacturing driven by robotics and advanced electronics. Many employers struggle to find qualified workers for these roles, with 67% reporting moderate to severe shortages and 56% expecting the situation to worsen in the next three to five years.
University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
Credit Hours: 126
Tuition: $385 (PCH)
Program Overview:
Students enrolled in AU’s online mechanical engineering program enjoy a comprehensive mix of virtual and hands-on learning. The program offers flexible online coursework through Blackboard, giving students access to academic coaching, skill-building, writing, and tutoring resources. It also includes three in-person lab courses and face-to-face elements, providing essential real-world experience. This hybrid approach ensures a well-rounded education, equipping students with the technical expertise and professional skills needed to succeed in the mechanical engineering industry.
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
Credit Hours: 128
Tuition: $644 (PCH)
Program Overview:
UND’s online mechanical engineering program offers students the flexibility to specialize in areas like Mechanical Design, Thermal Sciences, Aerospace, or Manufacturing and Materials, aligning their education with their career goals. Through Blackboard, students access coursework and support services like career counseling and tutoring. The program also requires “Cooperative Education” internships, providing essential real-world experience.
Indiana State University
- Terre Haute, IN
Credit Hours: 84
Resident Tuition: $342 (PCH)
Non-Resident Tuition: $445 (PCH)
Program Overview:
ISU’s online mechanical engineering program culminates in a senior capstone project, where students demonstrate their mastery of design principles and engineering concepts by solving complex problems. This hands-on experience prepares graduates for diverse careers in design, technical sales, installation, manufacturing, and maintenance, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed in the mechanical engineering industry.
Old Dominion University
- Norfolk, VA
Credit Hours: 120
Resident Tuition: $374 (PCH)
Non-Resident Tuition: $407 (PCH)
Program Overview:
As a mechanical engineering technology student at ODU, you’ll study subjects including computer-aided drafting, statistics, strength of materials, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, automation and controls, and computer solid modeling. The online program also includes a minor in engineering or science and a senior project. Upon graduation, you’ll earn a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology with a major in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
University of Central Florida
- Orlando, FL
Credit Hours: 120
Resident Tuition: $212 (PCH)
Non-Resident Tuition: $749 (PCH)
Program Overview:
Completing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering prepares you for a rewarding career by providing hands-on experience in applying your skills to real-world problems. Graduates can pursue roles such as mechanical engineer, field service engineer, machine learning engineer, mechanical designer, or project engineer. To advance in the field and access leadership positions, obtaining a master’s degree or professional certificate is often recommended to demonstrate advanced expertise.
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, OK
Credit Hours: 120
Resident Tuition: $13,920 (PYR)
Non-Resident Tuition: $29,440 (PYR)
Program Overview:
Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) focuses on mechanical design, computer-aided technologies, materials, mechanical power, and manufacturing. It’s ideal for students interested in mechatronics, robotics, automotive manufacturing, and a wide range of industries including aerospace, electronics, and food processing. OSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology (BSET) online, providing flexibility for those balancing careers or other commitments. The program is available through the College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT), and students from select states may qualify for in-state tuition through the Academic Common Market.
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
Credit Hours: 120
Tuition: $330 (PCH)
Program Overview:
Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering prepares you for a diverse engineering career by providing essential knowledge in design, analysis, development, and manufacturing. The program offers a comprehensive understanding of mechanical systems, equipping you to work in advanced materials, robotics, thermal-fluid systems, power and energy systems, propulsion systems, manufacturing, and other fields.
University of Massachusetts
- Lowell, MA
Credit Hours: 124
Tuition: $385 (PCH)
Program Overview:
The Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology provides students with a comprehensive background in engineering technology and the technical skills necessary to support product design, testing, and manufacturing. The program equips students to apply advanced concepts in analyzing, developing, and managing mechanical systems and processes. Graduates can pursue careers in manufacturing support, plant management, product testing, quality assurance, and engineering.
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
Credit Hours: 181
Tuition: $428 (PCH)
Program Overview:
Earning a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree online from Oregon State University equips you with traditional mechanical engineering training and essential computational engineering skills. You’ll learn to use computational models and algorithms to simulate, analyze, and optimize mechanical systems, enabling you to solve complex engineering problems efficiently. The program is accredited by ABET, ensuring it meets the highest quality standards for preparing graduates for professional success.
University of Alaska – Anchorage
- Anchorage, AK
Credit Hours: 131
Tuition: $5,842 (PSR)
Program Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at UAA prepares students for a wide range of careers in fields such as automotive and aerospace industries, biotechnology, oil and natural gas, renewable energy, manufacturing, and electronic hardware. The program offers hands-on learning and professional networking opportunities to equip students for successful careers in mechanical engineering and related fields.
ABET-accredited Online Mechanical Engineering Programs
Accreditation is a critical aspect of any engineering program, and most online mechanical engineering bachelor’s degrees offered in the United States are accredited by ABET (the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology), the same body that accredits in-person programs. ABET accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous educational standards and adequately prepares students for professional practice.
Students should verify that an online program is ABET-accredited before enrolling, as this accreditation is often a prerequisite for obtaining professional engineering licensure and is valued by employers. There are seven accredited online-only programs that offer bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering in the United States, all listed and detailed above. While many of the programs featured here are accredited by ABET for their on-campus programs, the online-only specific degree is not accredited.
Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Programs
The cost of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering online varies widely depending on the institution, with tuition ranging from approximately $10,000 to $25,000 per year for in-state students, and potentially higher for out-of-state or international students. Additionally, some programs charge a premium for online courses, while others offer reduced rates for online students.
Tuition affordability is crucial because it directly impacts a student’s ability to pursue higher education without incurring excessive debt. Affordable tuition allows more students to access quality education, reducing financial barriers and ensuring that a broader range of individuals can enter fields like mechanical engineering. Lower tuition costs also mean that graduates can start their careers with less financial burden, allowing them to focus on professional development rather than repaying student loans. Some good examples of affordable online-only mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree programs in the United States include:
- University of Alabama: Offers an online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program with relatively low tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. Tuition for both is roughly $325 per credit hour.
- Old Dominion University: Provides an online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology with competitive tuition rates, especially for in-state students ($374 per credit hour) or out-of-state students ($407 per credit hour).
- Arizona State University: Known for its affordable online programs, ASU offers a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) with a focus on flexibility and cost-effectiveness ($582 to $607 per credit hour).
Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available, much like in traditional programs, and some schools offer special tuition rates for military personnel or residents of certain states through programs like the Academic Common Market.
Accelerated Online Mechanical Engineering Programs
Accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs in mechanical engineering offer students a fast-track option to complete their education and enter the workforce more quickly. These programs often feature stacked courses, 4+1 programs, and block tuition rate structures, providing flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
At Arizona State University (ASU), students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering have the option to participate in an accelerated master’s program. This allows them to begin taking graduate-level courses during their undergraduate studies, enabling them to earn a master’s degree in just one additional year after completing their bachelor’s. This 4+1 program is ideal for students looking to advance their education and career in a shorter time frame.
ECPI University offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology that can be completed in as little as 2.5 years. This program is designed for those eager to enter the engineering field quickly, with an intensive course structure that allows students to earn their degree faster than traditional programs.
The University of North Dakota also provides a combined mechanical engineering degree program, where students can earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering within five years. This program is available online or on-campus, offering flexibility for students to choose the format that best suits their needs.
At UMass Lowell, students can complete their mechanical engineering degree in as little as 36 months (3 years). The program’s accelerated pace allows students to fast-track their education and reduce the time spent earning their degree, making it an attractive option for those looking to quickly start their engineering careers.
Finally, Oregon State University (OSU) offers an online mechanical engineering program with a block rate tuition structure. This means that students taking between 12 to 18 credit hours per semester are charged the same tuition rate, regardless of the number of credits. This structure encourages students to take a higher course load, which can help shorten the time needed to complete their degree while providing a predictable and manageable financial plan.
These accelerated programs are ideal for students who are motivated to complete their degrees quickly and are looking for flexible, cost-effective options to achieve their educational and career goals.
Career Outlook
The career outlook for recent graduates with a mechanical engineering degree is promising, with a wide range of opportunities across various industries. Mechanical engineers are in demand for their expertise in designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical systems, making them valuable in both traditional and emerging fields. While many graduates may expect roles in manufacturing, automotive, or aerospace industries, there are several unique career paths that might not be as commonly considered.
- Biomechanical Engineer: In this role, mechanical engineers apply their knowledge to the medical field, designing artificial organs, prosthetics, and medical devices. They work closely with healthcare professionals to develop technologies that improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals with physical impairments.
- Renewable Energy Engineer: Mechanical engineers in this field focus on developing and optimizing technologies related to renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. They work on designing efficient energy systems, improving energy storage solutions, and ensuring that renewable energy technologies are both effective and sustainable.
- Robotics Engineer: This role involves the design, creation, and testing of robots and automated systems used in various industries. Mechanical engineers in robotics may work on developing robotic arms for manufacturing, autonomous drones, or even robots used in healthcare for surgery or rehabilitation.
- Aerospace Thermal Engineer: In this specialized field, mechanical engineers focus on the thermal management of spacecraft, satellites, and other aerospace technologies. They design systems to regulate temperature, ensuring that these technologies operate effectively in the extreme conditions of space.
- Automotive Innovation Engineer: Mechanical engineers in this role work on cutting-edge automotive technologies, such as electric vehicles, autonomous driving systems, and advanced safety features. They play a key role in developing the next generation of vehicles, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and user experience.
- Sustainability Consultant: Mechanical engineers can also work as consultants, helping companies design products, processes, and systems that are environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. They provide expertise in reducing carbon footprints, optimizing resource use, and implementing sustainable practices across various industries.
- Entertainment Engineer: A less conventional path, entertainment engineers work within the film, theme park, or live event industries. They design and build animatronics, special effects, stage machinery, and other mechanical systems that bring stories to life in entertainment settings.
The versatility of a mechanical engineering degree opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities, some of which may be unexpected but are highly rewarding. Graduates who are willing to explore these unique paths can find themselves at the forefront of innovation in fields that blend engineering with creativity, sustainability, and technology.