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Master’s degree in mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile engineering fields, allowing graduates to work in nearly any industry. According to data published by the American Society for Engineering Education, there were a total of 66,340 engineering master’s degrees awarded between 2009 and 2018 at colleges and universities across the United States.
Mechanical engineers use their knowledge, creativity, analytical skills, and a variety of mechanical engineering tools and software packages to design, build, and test their designs and creations. As a mechanical engineer, you have the unique opportunity to see your designs come to life. Develop your knowledge by attending one of the best engineering programs.
Specific tasks mechanical engineers carry out include:
- developing design specifications for aircraft systems
- machining precise parts using CNC technology
- performing finite element analysis (FEA) on structural assemblies
- designing an energy-efficient electric generator
What can you do with a master’s in mechanical engineering?
The advanced knowledge and skills earned in this program allow you to work in a wide variety of fields. There’s no shortage of sub-disciplines and related industries, including:
- structural analysis and engineering
- feedback control systems
- automotive
- aerospace
- mechanics
- nanotechnology
- autonomous systems and robotics
- design engineering and computer-aided design (CAD)
- energy
The above list is by no means exhaustive. There are many more fields your mechanical engineering master’s degree can give you a head start in. It’s up to you to decide what fields, industries, and topics excite you most, and then discover ways you can pursue those topics in your career trajectory.
Should you get a master’s in mechanical engineering?
The main reason students pursue this degree is to gain the advanced knowledge and skills required for certain jobs in the field. Mechanical engineers with an interest in corporate research and development roles as well as those seeking to enter leadership positions also opt for a master’s degree.
Economic considerations are another important motive. The table below shows the economic performance of a master’s in mechanical engineering 3 years after graduation. It compares earnings to the median debt accrued and contrasts these with earnings 3 years after receiving a bachelor’s in the field.
Debt and earnings
Earnings
$88,345
Debt
$27,387
Debt-to-earning ratio
0.31%
Graduate degree premium
Earning over bachelors
$14,344
Annual debt repayment
$3,744
Earnings premium
$10,600
The figures above give an indication of the debt incurred by graduates, and their salaries 3 years after graduation. The table on the left compares median debt and median earnings. The right-hand table compares how much a master graduate earns over a bachelor graduate 3 years after graduation, after deducting median debt repayments.
Completing a master’s in mechanical engineering can mean a large difference in earnings over the bachelor’s 3 years after graduation.
How to pick a master’s in mechanical engineering
When choosing a master’s in mechanical engineering program, consider your career goals and be clear on what you would like to accomplish. Next, narrow down the programs that offer the concentration you are interested in.
Common concentrations include:
Materials science
This field focuses on engineering ideal materials and nanomaterials for use in structural, electronic, and energy applications.
Robotics and control systems
In this concentration, students learn to create the mechanical structures of robotic systems, including configurations, joint mechanisms, axes, and mounting positions.
Biomechanics
The study of biomechanics is the science of the living body, exploring how tendons, ligaments, bones, and muscles work together to produce movement. This concentration blends mechanical and biomedical engineering with anatomy and health.
Advanced manufacturing
Manufacturing is a critical process in any engineering project, and often involves a large number of moving parts. In this concentration, students learn to design machinery and equipment for optimizing manufacturing processes.
Energy systems
This concentration focuses on meeting present needs for material goods and energy without compromising the future. Students learn to design energy systems with a focus on renewable energies. Environmental and energy policy may also be covered.
Micro and nanoscale engineering
This cutting-edge interdisciplinary field combines knowledge from materials manufacturing, biomechanics, and device design. Engineers work on nanometer and micrometers scales to produce game-changing devices, materials, and structures.
Accreditation
ABET accreditation is not as important at the master’s level as at the bachelor’s and many excellent master’s programs are not accredited. Bear in mind that you may not get accepted into a master’s program without an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree.
Can you get a master’s in mechanical engineering online?
While the number of fully online master’s in mechanical engineering programs is relatively low, there are essentially no accredited fully online programs at the bachelor’s level, meaning the master’s is more adaptable to online study.
Average master’s
Online
18.8%
Campus
71.9%
Master’s in mechanical engineering
Online
8.3%
Campus
83.9%
The above table shows the percentage of programs available either completely in person or fully online. Figures that do not add up to 100% indicate the existence of hybrid programs.
Best master’s in mechanical engineering
- Find below our ratings of the comparative earnings, debt, debt-to-earnings ratio, and earning premium by graduate program.
- Note that missing information is usually due to insufficient data for reporting.
How much does a master’s in mechanical engineering cost?
See below for details about the cost of a master’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Public
Debt
$15,676
Debt to earnings
0.29
Earnings
$85,888
Private
Debt
$28,382
Debt to earnings
0.35
Earnings
$92,414
Median earnings and median debt of graduates of this degree program. The debt-to-earnings ratio compares student debt to annual earnings. The lower the debt-to-earnings ratio the better, and total debt should never exceed annual earnings (a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.0).
Financial aid and scholarships for mechanical engineering master’s students
To obtain your degree with maximum cost savings:
- begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- visit your school’s financial aid office for information on other funding options
- look into continuing education programs through your employer
Mechanical engineering scholarships
There are 112 scholarships totaling $415,525 in value available specifically for mechanical engineering students.
Explore more scholarshipsWhat to expect from a master’s in mechanical engineering
These programs are usually centered on core coursework in advanced mechanical engineering topics. Students pick electives in the concentration of their choice, and take several math and general education requirements.
Admission requirements
Admission requirements vary significantly between schools. Carefully check your chosen schools’ instructions. Common eligibility requirements include:
- minimum GPA as determined by school (often 3.0 or higher)
- bachelor’s in mechanical engineering or a related field
- letters of recommendation
How long does it take to get a master’s in mechanical engineering?
Earning a master’s in mechanical engineering takes 1 to 2 years.
Thesis versus non-thesis route
Most programs allow you to choose between completing or not completing a thesis. The thesis route is usually chosen by engineers looking to continue on to Ph.D. programs.
Internship requirements
Internships are not required but can be beneficial in certain circumstances. If you can work for a company and pursue your master’s part time, it can be a great way to get industry exposure and build your contact list.
FE and PE exams
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams can be taken by mechanical engineers who wish to:
- stamp and seal designs
- own their own engineering firm
- bid on government contracts
- perform engineering consulting services
- advertise services to the public
- offer expert witness testimony
The FE exam is often taken upon graduation, while the PE can be taken after working as an engineer for at least 4 years.
What types of courses are there in a master’s of mechanical engineering?
Most master’s of mechanical engineering programs require subjects such as mathematics and design, core coursework in specialized mechanical engineering topics, and relevant electives.
Mechanics of materials
Students design and analyze mechanical components and learn to choose materials to meet design objectives. Stress and strain, failure criteria, and other factors are studied and applied to materials selection.
Finite-element methods
Finite-element methods are numerical analysis techniques frequently used in continuum mechanics. This course focuses on the mechanics of deformable solids, with a focus on linear elasticity, computer implementation of finite element techniques, and finite-element code development.
Robot kinematics
This course takes a deep dive into kinematics, dynamics, and basic controls for robotic mechanism. Students advance their knowledge of designing, planning, and controlling robot systems.
Rapid mechanical design
Students learn how to apply methodologies and off-the-shelf tools to rapidly developing new products. Manufacturing management strategies, conceptual design, concurrent engineering, and Design for X are reviewed, and advanced topics in virtual and physical prototyping are introduced.
Design for manufacturability (DFM)
This course teaches mechanical engineers how to consider and account for the entire lifecycle of a product, from conception to disposal, during the design stage.
What types of master’s degrees are there in mechanical engineering?
The 2 primary degree types in this field are:
- master of science (M.S.) in mechanical engineering
- master of engineering (MEng) – mechanical
The degree designation depends on whether or not there’s a thesis requirement – M.S. students complete a thesis while MEng student do not. Engineers looking to enter academia or pursue research post graduation typically earn an M.S.
What careers can I have with a master’s in mechanical engineering?
A master’s degree gives you an edge over the competition. Most engineering firms consider a graduate degree equivalent to 2 years of work experience. There are a range of career options available to candidates with an M.S. or MEng in mechanical engineering.
Frequently asked questions
Is a master’s degree in mechanical engineering worth it?
This degree is worth pursuing if you wish to advance your career and education. Many individuals pursue a master’s degree while employed. Earning the degree can thus be used as leverage for negotiating a promotion or upward move. For mechanical engineers interested in research, this degree is a steppingstone to a Ph.D. and, eventually, research and development roles.
How hard is a master’s in mechanical engineering?
This degree builds on knowledge gained at the bachelor level. If you earned a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering and particularly if you also completed the FE-Mechanical exam, this program should be manageable.
Should I do a master’s of science in mechanical engineering or a master’s of engineering?
If you plan on pursuing a standard position in an engineering firm after graduation, the MEng may be the best choice, as it has no thesis requirement. If you would like to enter academia or pursue research, the M.S. may be a better fit.
Are mechanical engineers versatile?
Yes, mechanical engineers are very versatile. In fact, mechanical engineering is considered the broadest and most versatile engineering discipline.
Are mechanical engineers still needed?
Yes, mechanical engineers are still needed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of mechanical engineers is expected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030.
Additional resources
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Many mechanical engineering graduates become members of ASME. Established in 1880, there are over 90,000 ASME members in more than 135 countries, helping each other share ideas, network, learn, and engage with colleagues in the industry.
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
The NSPE administers the FE and PE exams as well as overseeing engineering licensure. They publish a seasonal professional engineering publication entitled PE, as well as offering other news, research, a job board, and professional membership.
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