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What is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical Engineering is often abbreviated as M.E. and is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, operation, function, construction, and utilization of machines.  Mechanical engineers are needed to design individual parts (sensors), assembly units (combustion engine), and devices (machine tools) for a variety of industries including aerospace, biotechnology, computers, energy, automation, manufacturing, microelectromechanical systems, and environmental control.

ME’s are tasked with bringing ideas to life and need specialized knowledge to accomplish this objective that include:

  • Forces the product and subsystems will encounter
  • Thermal environment
  • Product functionality
  • Aesthetics
  • Cost limitations
  • Manufacturing parameters
  • Durability
  • Affect(s) of motion and wear

The sheer breadth of mechanical engineering makes this field one of the most diverse in the engineering world.  Regardless of discipline studied in school or the industry, a mechanical engineer will have the mental acuity to think creatively and analytically to solve a wide variety of problems.  Likewise, a mechanical engineer is trained to effectively communicate with team members to design, create, market, and launch a product to market.  Such skills make it attractive to start companies in manufacturing, healthcare, management, or consulting trades.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$89,800

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

58.72%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

285,790

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Mechanical Engineering Degree

Harvard University is the country’s oldest institution of higher learning established in 1636. Harvard is among the most prestigious Ivy League research universities in the world located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. With over 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students, the university continues to devote excellence in teaching, learning, and research to develop effective and productive global leaders.

Students of Mechanical Engineering concentration in the undergraduate engineering program at Harvard offered by John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences are equipped with a foundational education in mechanical engineering (ME) central to issues in energy, transportation, manufacturing, robotics, and the development of public infrastructure. The program also covers a range of topics including mechatronics and robotics, structural analysis, thermodynamics and engineering design, and biological and nanotechnology applications. Check the complete details at seas.harvard.edu.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Princeton University, founded as the College of New Jersey in 1746, is one of the oldest private Ivy League research universities in the country. With nearly 150 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on its campus at Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton aspires to develop productive members and leaders who can make exceptional contributions to society.

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton offers a top rated degree in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering with the option to take both programs simultaneously. Both programs may be combined with certificate programs or minor in different fields such as Engineering Biology, Applied Mathematics, Materials Science, Engineering Physics, Robotics and Intelligent Systems, and Engineering and Management Systems. Undergraduates are also given the opportunity to engage in independent research under the supervision of faculty members. Visit mae.princeton.edu for more information.

Acceptance Rate

5.78

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

Yale University is one of the oldest and leading private Ivy League research universities in the country since its founding in 1701. Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale is dedicated to training the next generations of world leaders and reaching institutions across the globe to promote cultural understanding and improve the human condition.

The mission of the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at Yale is to provide an excellent education to the members of the next generation of mechanical engineers. Three undergraduate programs in mechanical engineering (ME) are offered by the department. A BS degree in Mechanical Engineering is a technically intensive ME degree program appropriate for students who plan careers as practicing engineers in industry or government, as well as for those who plan to pursue an advanced degree in engineering or related disciplines. For students who wish to combine their engineering studies with ME, the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Sciences (Mechanical) is the ideal program to gain significant expertise in ME. Lastly, the Bachelor of Arts in Engineering Sciences (Mechanical) is perfect for students who want to apply ME to their majors in business, law, medicine, journalism, or politics. See seas.yale.edu to review the programs.

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

As the state’s oldest institution of higher learning established in 1754, Columbia University in the City of New York, known as Columbia University, is a private Ivy League research university in New York City, New York. The university is one of the global leaders in research and distinctive academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students in different scholarly and professional fields.

Students in the Mechanical Engineering undergraduate degree program at Columbia’s Department of Mechanical Engineering are trained and prepared to be effective leaders in the field of mechanical engineering (ME) as well as in other related fields such as medicine, law, consulting, management, and finance. The curriculum heavily focuses on mathematics, and fundamental and applied science including courses on humanities as part of the Core Curriculum at Columbia. As early as first year, students engage in designing engineering solutions and take part in collaborative research projects with the faculty members and graduate students. Read through the program at me.columbia.edu.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Stanford University, officially named the Leland Stanford Junior University in 1886, is one of the world’s leading private research universities. With over 17,000 students on its campus in Stanford, California, the university aims to create a place suitable for learning, discovery, innovation, expression, and discourse.

At Stanford Mechanical Engineering Department, the undergraduate major in Mechanical Engineering provides students with an advanced understanding of quantitative principles, exceptional communications skills as well as project-based design and laboratory experiences. The program covers the most fundamental themes in mechanical engineering as well as its application to a wide array of fields such as biomedicine, computational engineering, and design and energy engineering. The department also offers a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and Engineering: Design Impact. Explore the programs at me.stanford.edu.

Acceptance Rate

4.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

The University of Pennsylvania, popularly known as Penn, is a private Ivy League research university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Penn has been providing rigorous academic programs to its more than 25,000 students in pursuit of innovative knowledge that can improve the lives of communities worldwide since 1740.

Penn’s School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a highly integrated program in the field of mechanical engineering (ME). The BSE in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) is a flexible program especially for students who plan to specialize in one or more areas in ME like energy engineering, mechanical design, fluid mechanics, and structural mechanics. Specializations in cross-disciplinary areas that include robotics, biomechanics, and  micro-electromechanical systems are also available for students of the program. Some students also combine their MEAM degree with programs in other undergraduate schools and one particular program of interest is the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology. Learn more at me.upenn.edu.

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private land-grant research university founded in 1861. MIT aims to advance knowledge and educate students in science, technology, and other areas of study by providing rigorous academic programs to its students combined with the intellectual stimulation of its diverse campus community.

At MIT Mechanical Engineering, several undergradaute degrees in mechanical engineering (ME) are offered to provide a broad-based education in the engineering sciences while establishing the essential quantitative, problem-solving, design, and communications skills of students. The first program, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, offers a traditional and technical approach in which students are prepared for different career options in the field of ME. The second program, on the other hand, is a program allowing students to study the fundamentals of ME and combine it with another complementary engineering discipline leading to a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. Lastly, students who want to have a foundation in ME with a specialization in ocean engineering can take the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Ocean Engineering. Visit the department’s website at meche.mit.edu.

Acceptance Rate

6.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

Duke University is a research university in Durham, North Carolina that started as a small school in 1838. With its affiliation to the Methodist Church, the university aims to foster a lively relationship between knowledge and faith by contributing to local communities by providing a superior liberal education to undergraduate and graduate students from all over the world.

Recognized as one of the top mechanical engineering (ME) programs in the country, Duke boasts its comprehensive curriculum which includes hands-on design, data science, computing, research, and entrepreneurship along with the fundamental concepts in ME. The BSE major in Mechanical Engineering involves mathematics and basic sciences, fundamentals and applications in several engineering sciences, as well as several team-based experiences in the process of designing solutions. Go to mems.duke.edu to access the curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

7.6

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The California Institute of Technology, also known as Caltech, is a private research university based in Pasadena, California. As a world-renowned science and engineering institute, it serves the brightest minds worldwide intending to address fundamental scientific questions and most-pressing social issues. Caltech’s research programs focus on quantum science and engineering, bioinformatics, human behavior, and energy and sustainability.

The undergraduate degree programs in Mechanical Engineering at Caltech intends to produce graduates and future leaders in academia, industry, and government in the field of mechanical engineering. Students are expected to build a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, chemistry, and biology and use these principles to generate solutions to engineering problems. Specifically, the program teaches students the basics of designing, analysis, measurement, and evaluation of fluid, thermal and mechanical systems. For more information, visit mce.caltech.edu.

Acceptance Rate

6.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

With nearly 24,000 students on its campus in Ithaca, New York, Cornell University is a privately endowed Ivy League research university established in 1865. The university intends to make contributions in all fields of knowledge, from the humanities to the sciences. Cornell values free and open inquiry, purposeful discovery, and exploration across boundaries reflected in its academic programs.

At Cornell Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, students of the BS degree in Mechanical Engineering must complete the Common Curriculum of the College of Engineering alongside their mechanical engineering (ME) major. The first main topic in the program is Mechanical Systems and Materials Processing which involves the design, analysis, testing, and manufacture of machines, vehicles, devices, and systems. As students advance, concepts in fluids, energy, and heat-transfer systems that deal with the experimental and theoretical aspects of fluid flow and heat transfer as well as thermodynamics and combustion are discussed. More details are available at mae.cornell.edu.

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Founded in 1851, Northwestern University is a comprehensive research institution offering various programs across multiple schools and units. Along with two campuses in Chicago, Illinois, and Doha, Qatar, Northwestern’s campus at Evanston, Illinois houses more than 21,000 students with the mission to provide excellent teaching, innovative research, and personal and intellectual growth for its students.

At Northwestern McCormick School of Engineering, the Mechanical Engineering undergraduate degree provides high flexibility in terms of its customizable curriculum depending on the students’ interests and professional goals. Students of the program can choose to specialize in certain fields such as Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Design, Energy and Sustainability, Manufacturing, Micro-Nano Engineering, and Robotics. The school also offers mechanical engineering programs leading to Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. View the courses of the undergraduate program at mccormick.northwestern.edu.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, popularly known as Olin College of Engineering, is a private college in Needham, Massachusetts exploring innovative approaches to teaching engineering. Since its founding in 1997, the college houses exceptional students and faculty members across the country who intends to spark a global difference.

Olin College offers a flexible undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) where students can choose or create their choice of area of concentration. The fundamentals in mechanical design, fabrication, and mechanical and thermal analysis such as energy, heat, and fluid flow are deeply ingrained in the students throughout the program. In the first year, students participate in Design Nature which introduces the concepts of mechanical design and prototyping in order to develop a shared practice and understanding of engineering design. To know more, go to olin.edu.

Acceptance Rate

15.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL), a private research university in the country founded in 1853, has several campuses around St. Louis, Missouri. The university is committed to teaching, research, patient care, and service to society by preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and habits of lifelong learning and leadership. Across its 10 schools and divisions in various areas of study, WUSTL has been developing productive members of the global society for over 150 years.

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering offered at WUSTL McKelvey School of Engineering aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills in identifying, formulating, and solving complex engineering problems by applying the principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. It is also expected for graduates to apply concepts of engineering design to produce solutions in different fields with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as different global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors. Visit mems.wustl.edu to check the details of the program.

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

As one of the country’s leading undergraduate academic institutions, the University of Notre Dame, or Notre Dame in short has been at the forefront in research and scholarship with over 75 undergraduate majors across 8 colleges and schools. Notre Dame, as a research university, has contributed significant breakthroughs in the fields of astrophysics, radiation chemistry, environmental sciences, peace studies, cancer, robotics, and nanoelectronics since 1842.

The top ranked mechanical engineering degree at Notre Dame College of Engineering equips students with the fundamentals of basic math and science on top of the foundational courses in mechanics, design process, design tools, computing, and thermal and fluid sciences. Students may choose to pursue more advanced topics and specializations through courses and electives in bioengineering, computational engineering, energy, engineering corporate practice, sustainability, environmental engineering, manufacturing, robotics, and many more. For more information about the program, see ame.nd.edu.

Acceptance Rate

15.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Rice University is one of the top research universities in the United States set in the heart of Houston, Texas. The university, originally called William Marsh Rice University in 1891, consistently ranks for the best quality of life among private institutions because of its strong campus tradition of keeping close-knit, diverse communities.

The undergraduate programs in mechanical engineering (ME) at Rice Department of Mechanical Engineering prepares students for careers in different areas of ME such as aerospace engineering, biomedical systems, computational mechanics, fluids-thermal science, mechanical design, and robotics. The first program, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, aims to equip students with an intensive technical curriculum of ME and is ideal for those who plan to work as professional engineers or pursue graduate studies in the area. The Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Mechanical Engineering program, on the other hand, provides a more flexible, yet comprehensive curriculum for students who are interested in working in areas outside of engineering. Visit mech.rice.edu to know more.

Acceptance Rate

8.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Vanderbilt University is a globally renowned private research university in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1873, the purpose of establishing the institution is to provide transformative education and research across all sectors. The university offers robust undergraduate and graduate programs across internationally recognized schools of law, education, business, medicine, nursing, and divinity.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt School of Engineering offers undergraduate and graduate programs in mechanical engineering (ME) featuring rigorous theory-based coursework and hands-on laboratory work. The curriculum of the Bachelor of Engineering Mechanical Engineering degree begins with a strong foundation in basic math and physics and progresses to advanced courses in all major areas of mechanical engineering. Following a broad-based engineering curriculum, students are expected to have a theoretical understanding of physical systems as well as practical experience in the design, implementation, and testing of engineering solutions. Read more about the program at engineering.vanderbilt.edu.

Acceptance Rate

9.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Tufts University, a moderately-sized private research university on the border of Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, is one of the leaders in the nation’s higher education system known for providing students with a personal experience. Founded in 1852 as Tufts College, the university serves nearly 12,000 students across campuses in Boston and Grafton Massachusetts, and Talloires, France.

At Tufts School of Engineering, the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program teaches students the fundamental principles of mechanical engineering and human factors providing a sound basis for professional practice and career in the industry. Specifically, the program equips students with skills necessary in the identification, formulation, and solving complex engineering problems by applying interdisciplinary principles of engineering, science, and mathematics. The school also offers a combined Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree to exceptional undergraduates with a thesis or non-thesis option. Check the mentioned programs at engineering.tufts.edu.

Acceptance Rate

14.95

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

As the country’s first private research university based in Baltimore Maryland, Johns Hopkins University leads several world-class academic divisions that work together to fulfill the university’s mission of bringing knowledge to the world. This university revolutionized higher education in the United States in 1876 and presently continues to prepare students in becoming effective citizens and global leaders.

There are two available Mechanical Engineering programs at John Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering. The first program, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, is appropriate for students seeking careers in industry and planning for graduate studies as it includes a substantial core of engineering courses and different technical and engineering elective courses. The other program, Bachelor of Science in Engineering Mechanics, is ideal as a minor or a double-major for students who wish to learn the basics of mechanical engineering while majoring in other disciplines. View both programs at me.jhu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

The University of Southern California (USC), with almost 46,000 students on its campus in Los Angeles, California, is a private research university considered as a global center for arts, technology, and international business. First opened its doors in 1880, USC has been offering diverse academic programs and extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration with researchers around the world.

At USC Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, the BS degree in Mechanical Engineering degree provides a solid educational foundation for all students pursuing a career as a professional engineer, in related fields, or for graduate studies. The program includes courses in math, physics, chemistry, core aerospace and mechanical engineering, materials science, and information technology. Students may also choose from a number of tracks for specialization such as Standard, Computational, Design, Dynamics/Controls, and Thermo/Fluids. For more information about the tracks, visit ame.usc.edu.

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Originally the southern branch of the University of California, the University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university in Los Angeles, California. Since its founding in 1919l, its primary goal is to create, disseminate, and apply knowledge in different disciplines for the improvement of our global society by committing to academic freedom at all times.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at UCLA Samueli School of Engineering provides students with the foundational principles of mechanics, dynamics, and energy transfer in designing, analyzing, testing, and manufacturing consumer and industrial products. The program offers several specializations in different areas of mechanical engineering: the Power Systems and Thermal Design which involves energy utilization and thermal environment control, and Mechanical Systems-Design and Control and Manufacturing which involves conception, design, and manufacture of commercial products as needed in different industries. UCLA's Graduate Program also offers an online degree in Master of Science in Engineering-Mechanical. For inquiries, check their website at mae.ucla.edu.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

As an iconic public institution of higher education in Charlottesville, Virginia, the University of Virginia (UVA) was founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819 with the goal to advance human knowledge, educate leaders, and pursue the greater good. UVA shelters top-ranked schools and programs, accomplished faculty, diverse student bodies, and a major academic medical center.

The BS degree in Mechanical Engineering (ME) offered at UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science features a newly revised curriculum that includes a strong foundation in mathematics and science as well as practical experiences and exposure to engineering applications. Students can also create their own program of study by choosing courses specific to their interests and professional goals. With the program, graduates are prepared for careers in the industry or government and further graduate studies in the discipline. Discover more about the program at engineering.virginia.edu.

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Commonly referred to as The Cooper Union, the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art is one of the oldest and most distinguished institutions of higher learning in the United States. It was established in 1859 as the Cooper Institute which is a private college in New York City. The Cooper Union offers world-class education and research in the fields of art, architecture, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Cooper Union offers undergraduate and graduate program in mechanical engineering that allows students to explore their specific interests in the field. The Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering is a program where students build a strong foundation of theoretical and technological interests in the field such as mechanics and materials, combustion, thermo-fluid sciences, vibrations and acoustics, robotics, dynamics, and control systems, digital fabrication, and manufacturing. The Master’s program, on the other hand, involves the study of advanced concepts like computer-aided design/manufacturing, biomedical engineering, automotive systems, modern control systems, and sustainable building systems. To get more information about the curriculum, visit cooper.edu.

Acceptance Rate

15.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Initially named the Carnegie Technical Schools on its founding in 1900, Carnegie Mellon University is a private global research university based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Today, the university accommodates more than 14,500 students from 100 countries engaging in the fields of engineering, fine arts, sciences, computer science, business, social sciences, and information systems.

At Carnegie Mellon’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, students prepare for their individual career paths in the field of mechanical engineering through the BS in Mechanical Engineering. The curriculum covers engineering theory, hands-on experience, and technical skills where students study the step-by-step method in solving practical and realistic problems and analyze situations to produce reliable and cost-effective solutions. The program also presents the analysis, design, and manufacture of systems that are included in the mathematics, science, and engineering courses. The department also offers an integrated master’s/bachelor’s program where junior students can apply to obtain the two degrees. To know more about the program requirements, visit meche.engineering.cmu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

15.44

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Founded in 1868, the University of California - Berkeley (UC Berkeley) is the first campus of the University of California system located in Berkeley, California. With nearly 350 academic programs, UC Berkeley is ranked as the top public university worldwide offering interdisciplinary areas of study and research units to address the world’s most pressing issues.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley offers majors, minors, and a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree for students interested in mechanical engineering (ME). The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering provides a broad-based education with a solid foundation in scientific and engineering fundamentals. The program encompasses a number of subfields in ME such as bioengineering, combustion, energy conversion, lubrication, manufacturing and sustainability, materials processing, fluid and solid mechanics, and many more. See other options at me.berkeley.edu.

Acceptance Rate

16.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Michigan (Michigan) is among the top public research universities in the United States founded in 1817. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the university continues to fulfill its mission of creating, communicating, preserving, and applying knowledge, art, and academic values in its top-ranked programs to develop responsible and productive leaders and citizens.

At Michigan, mechanical engineering students master the fundamental concepts in the field and acquire the technical skills required in the profession through the department’s top-notch faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and intensive curricula. The undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering involves the study of foundational principles such as thermal and fluid sciences, dynamics, and solid mechanics and materials. Students are also trained throughout the program in working together through several hands-on, design teams to hone the soft skills they need to comprehend issues and solve real-world problems. The university also grants masters and doctoral programs in mechanical engineering through the Rackham Graduate School. Access the program details at me.engin.umich.edu.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Mechanical Engineer Requirements

A degree in mechanical engineering prepares individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to design, modify, or repair machines. Mechanical engineers will learn about the functions of machines, how those machines operate, the tools necessary to construct or repair them, and the methods for designing and constructing said machines.

Mechanical engineers will work on a variety of machines, using various power sources and other constructs to ensure that the machines operate as intended. A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is typically needed for entry level positions, with graduate level degrees necessary to pursue or be promoted to managerial or supervisory positions. A curriculum in mechanical engineering may include:

  • Mechanics and Materials
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Engineering Dynamics & Control
  • Calculus and Numerical Computation
  • Modeling Dynamics
  • Hydrodynamics
  • Differential Equations & Nonlinear Systems
  • Robotics
  • Mechatronics
  • Quantum Computations
  • Fluid Mechanics, Propulsion, & Wave Propagation
  • Structural Mechanics
  • Electromechanical Devices
  • Machine Design
  • Photovoltaics
  • Biomedical Devices
  • Vibrations

How To Become a Mechanical Engineer

To become a mechanical engineer, you will need to follow a series of discrete steps. These steps must be performed in a particular sequence to move to the next set of steps in the process as foundational steps build upon one another. We have outlined the steps to becoming a mechanical engineer below to help you navigate the process with greater efficiency.

Step 1 Research Accredited Schools

Your journey to become a mechanical engineer starts with researching accrediting colleges and universities. It is important that the school fit your academic objectives, budget, and personal priorities. Start by reading our Complete Guide to the College Admissions Process followed by How to Crush the Odds and Get Into Your Top College. Once you have a list of personal priorities firmly in place, utilize the schools and information on this resource page or use our proprietary matching portal to request information packets from schools on your list.

Step 2 Submit Your College Application

After receiving information from your top schools offering mechanical engineering programs, you will need to apply to those schools. Your college application should accurately highlight your uniqueness, academic prowess, extracurricular activities, and relevant work experience. Illuminating your unique aspects of you in an effort to help you stand apart from other applications and get into your top schools.

Step 3 Attending College

After gaining admissions to the college of your choice, you will have the opportunity to attend orientation, meet with your academic advisor, register for classes, and begin coursework in mechanical engineering. Ask questions, remain curious, and stay focused during this period of time as you will look back at this period of time and remember the great relationships, challenging work, and good times in school.

Step 4 Final Exams & Graduation

After meeting all necessary course requirements set forth by your college, you will be conferred with a degree in mechanical engineering. Whether you earned your mechanical engineering degree online or in a traditional classroom setting, you will be ready to move on to the next step towards additional schooling or employment in the marketplace.

Step 5 Licensing & Work

At present, only engineers offering services directly to the public need to earn a license. In other words, if you are working for an engineering company or government agency a license will not be required to start work. With that in mind, you may still elect to earn a license to show employers and customers your commitment to the engineering field.

All states have their own unique set of requirements for a mechanical engineer but will generally require you to have at least four years of work experience, a degree from an ABET accredited college or university, and passing scores on PE examinations. To find work in the field, utilize your network and colleges resources to connect to top firms that fit your interests and skill set.

Top Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Earning a degree in mechanical engineering online or in a classroom will help propel your career in a direction fitting for you.  Programs span from a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctorate degree plus certificate programs.  We have outlined each below to help you better understand your options in mechanical engineering.

Mechanical Engineering Certificates Online

Earning a mechanical engineering certificate can serve different purposes depending on the certificate achieved.  For example, an undergraduate certificate in mechanical engineering is a starting point to help students get familiar with the foundational elements of the trade (materials science, product design, production) as a stand-alone certificate or coupled with an undergraduate degree.

Students will typically have classes in requisite classes such as math, physics, and chemistry.  Upon completion, students will typically enter the field as a mechanical engineering technologist or technician.

Graduate certificates in mechanical engineering are specialized programs for practitioners in the field that have already earned a degree from an ABET accredited school in mechanical engineering or adjacent program.  Specializations can include nanotechnology, integrated systems, or manufacturing engineering to name a few.  A graduate-level certificate will be utilized to upskill with an employer, move up in an organization, or help make a professional shift into an area of specialization within mechanical engineering.

Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online

The classroom-based or online bachelor degrees in mechanical engineering are designed to expose students to a variety of design theories and mathematical models.  Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program will take a number of science and math classes that underpin mechanical engineering along with introductory courses (chemistry, technical writing, computer programming, mechanics) in the first two years of study.

These foundational classes provide the framework necessary for engineers to grasp more advanced concepts downstream.  For example, classes in computer programming and electrical systems prepare students to more effectively work in robotics and robotic design fields.

The final two years of the 4-year bachelor’s degree program, students will take core engineering courses.  Typical classes found in a course catalog may include machine design, fluid mechanics, circuit analysis, vector mechanics, metallurgic behavior, system dynamics, and mechanical systems.  Some colleges and universities have CAD systems allowing students to prototype 3D models from start to finish.

Mechanical Engineering Master’s Degree Online

Online mechanical engineering master’s degrees are either research-intensive or professionally oriented.  The research-based programs are generally created for student’s intent on pursuing a PhD or research-intensive jobs in the private or public sector.  On the other hand, the professional degrees provide students with additional skills in a defined area of specialization like combustion, manufacturing, biomedicine, supply chain management, or nanotechnology.

Students applying to a master’s degree program will need an undergraduate degree from an ABET accredited school and work experience is often preferred.  The on-site or online master’s degree will last 1-3 years dependent on the course chosen and number of credits you have entering the program.

On-site or online master’s degree programs can be a stand-alone Master of Science (MS) or a joint BS/MS program which can truncate the overall length of time it takes to earn a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree.  From upper level math courses to specialized courses in a variety of mechanical engineering disciplines, students will be provided the opportunity to solve complex issues and create novel solutions to existing challenges.  Additionally, some master’s degrees will require students to prepare a thesis while other schools offer the option to take additional classes in lieu of a thesis.

Mechanical Engineering Doctorate Degree Online

Doctoral program in Mechanical Engineering is a PhD program is a terminal degree with no additional degrees beyond the doctoral degree.  Students enrolled in a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering will select an area of concentration as part of their studies.  Areas of specialty for PhD students may include: dynamics, automation, acoustics, mechatronics, bioengineering, aerospace, fluid mechanics, design, combustion, energy systems, robotics, manufacturing, medical physics, nano engineering, nuclear engineering, tribology, or radiological engineering.

In terms of admissions, the majority of colleges require a master’s degree while a few allow students with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering plus substantive work experience.  In addition to intensive, rigorous coursework in the PhD program, students will invest years on their dissertation.  The creation, design, research, and defense of a dissertation will translate to a 3-5 investment to complete a doctorate-level degree in mechanical engineering.  Students considering a PhD will take jobs in higher education teaching, leadership positions, or performing research for public companies, private organizations, or government agencies.

Employment Opportunities for Mechanical Engineers

A career in mechanical engineering requires individuals to have strong math skills, creativity, problem solving ability, and mechanical acumen. Mechanical engineers will seek out problems and try to find solutions through the design and application of machines. Such machines can be found in production facilities or in the home, and everywhere in between. Engineers will be required to analyze problems, and approach solutions thoroughly and safely.

All 50 states require licenses for mechanical engineers that work in the public sector, typically requiring two tests. Graduates of an accredited mechanical engineering program may take the first test, Fundamentals of Engineering, and will be designated Engineers in Training (EiT).

After a significant amount of experience is gained EiTs may take the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam, the passing of which designates the individual as a Professional Engineer (PE). In addition, certifications are available in specific fields of mechanical engineering, the obtaining of which demonstrates competency.

Employment growth for mechanical engineers is expected to be limited over the next ten years. Job prospects are expected to be good for individuals who are current with the latest software and technology. The average salary for mechanical engineers is $78,000 per year.

Top Careers in Mechanical Engineering

A number of careers can be pursued after earning your degree in mechanical engineering. As industries change and technology advances, the number of options continue to expand for mechanical engineers. A list of common career tracks in mechanical engineering include analytics, quality control, research, engineering, product development, and maintenance in the following sectors:

Military Solar
Agriculture Chemical
Medical Petroleum
Manufacturing Healthcare
Robotics Nanotechnology
Consulting Automotive
Marine Transportation Aerospace
Construction Rail
Electronics Food Processing
Pharmaceuticals Communications
Energy Defense

 

Top Employers of Mechanical Engineers

  1. Architectural and Engineering Firms 63,360
  2. Research and Development Firms 19,530
  3. Aerospace Manufacturing 13,690
  4. Automotive Manufacturing 13,200
  5. Federal Government 12,230

States with the Highest Employment of Mechanical Engineers

  • Michigan 42,080
  • California 24,830
  • Texas 19,690
  • Ohio 14,920
  • Illinois 14,500

Top Paying States for Mechanical Engineers

  1. Alaska $138,370
  2. District of Columbia $108,340
  3. New Mexico $108,140
  4. Louisiana $104,020
  5. Texas $103,060

Additional Resources for Mechanical Engineers

Individuals interested in mechanical engineering may also be interested in robotics, electrical engineering or architectural engineering. For additional information on a career in Mechanical Engineering, check out our Career Roadmap for Mechanical Engineers on our blog.

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