CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 40Faculty members with diverse research interests
- 10Top mechanical engineering departments in the U.S.
- 48Total credits required
- 20Credits dedicated to research (MAE 8900)
- Two-yearProgram duration
- Thesis requiredCulminating research project
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering program at Cornell University is a two-year, research-focused degree designed to provide advanced classroom training and hands-on experience in research methodology. This program is ideal for students aiming to advance their careers in industry, government, or academia. It offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies with faculty guidance to align with their specific interests and backgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes a strong research component, culminating in a master's thesis that is expected to be publishable. This program is a terminal master's degree and is not a pathway to the Ph.D. program at Cornell. Importantly, students admitted to this M.S. program should be aware that there is no financial support available, such as research or teaching assistantships; the program is self-funded by the student. Graduates are prepared with advanced research skills and a commitment to scholarly values, ready to contribute to the field.
Curriculum
The M.S. program requires 48 total credits. Students must complete 20 credits of research (MAE 8900) and the departmental colloquium (MAE 7999) twice. Additionally, exclusive of research and colloquium credits, 15 credits at the 5000 level or above are required, with at least six of these credits at the 6000 level or above.
- Year 1 & 2
- ResearchMAE 8900
- Departmental ColloquiumMAE 7999
Careers
The M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program prepares graduates for success in a variety of professional settings. The rigorous academic training and substantial research experience gained at Cornell equip students with advanced skills highly valued in both technical and research-oriented roles.
- Industry positions
- Government roles
- Academia
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
- You need a Bachelor's degree in engineering or physical sciences and must meet English proficiency requirements. For example, IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 100 (prior to Jan 2026).
- What is the tuition and are there scholarships available?
- Tuition information can be found on the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page. There is no financial support available for this M.S. program; it is a self-paid program.
- How long is the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
- The program is a two-year, research-focused degree.
- What is the application deadline for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is January 15.
- What is the structure of the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering curriculum?
- The program requires 48 total credits, including 20 credits of research (MAE 8900) and the departmental colloquium (MAE 7999) twice. Additionally, 15 credits at the 5000 level or above are required, with at least six at the 6000 level or above.
- What are the career prospects after completing this M.S. program?
- Graduates are prepared for industry positions, government roles, or academia, equipped with advanced research skills.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeIn engineering or the physical sciences.
IELTS7.5
TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026)100
TOEFL (Jan 2026 onwards)5.0 (recommended 5.5)
Duolingo130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency191
Applicants are reviewed by a faculty committee based on academic performance, letters of recommendation, research experience, and alignment of research interests with faculty. Students do not select a thesis advisor before applying. Admission is primarily for the Fall semester.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current international tuition information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page for current domestic tuition information.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified but can be found on the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.
There is no financial support available for students in this M.S. program. It is a self-paid program.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents including transcripts, GRE scores (if applicable, though not explicitly stated as required for this program, it is a general graduate school requirement), three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, an academic statement of purpose, and a resume or CV.
2. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsEnsure you meet the English language proficiency requirements through accepted tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or Cambridge C1/C2. Self-reported scores are accepted initially, with official scores required upon enrollment.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the Cornell Graduate School portal. Pay the application fee or submit a waiver request.
4. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by a faculty committee. Admission decisions are typically released for the Fall intake.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree in engineering or physical sciences and must meet English proficiency requirements. For example, IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 100 (prior to Jan 2026).
What is the tuition and are there scholarships available?
+
Tuition information can be found on the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page. There is no financial support available for this M.S. program; it is a self-paid program.
How long is the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
+
The program is a two-year, research-focused degree.
What is the application deadline for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is January 15.
What is the structure of the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering curriculum?
+
The program requires 48 total credits, including 20 credits of research (MAE 8900) and the departmental colloquium (MAE 7999) twice. Additionally, 15 credits at the 5000 level or above are required, with at least six at the 6000 level or above.
What are the career prospects after completing this M.S. program?
+
Graduates are prepared for industry positions, government roles, or academia, equipped with advanced research skills.