The United States offers 49 Mechanical Engineering programmes across 26 universities, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral level, at institutions spanning the country. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Rice University, University of Maryland College Park, and New York University are among the universities offering programmes in this discipline. Tuition ranges from free to approximately €52,000 per year, with funding opportunities common at research-intensive institutions.
US Mechanical Engineering programmes are accredited by ABET, the recognised engineering accreditation body, ensuring graduates meet industry and professional standards. The field covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, robotics, and manufacturing. Graduates find employment in aerospace, automotive, energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors, and the United States consistently ranks among the top destinations globally for engineering talent.
This advanced course focuses on the practical design and prototyping of mechatronic systems. You will learn to create functional prototypes using tools like laser cutters and 3D printers, and gain hands-on experience with embedded computing, software control, and electronic design. The course covers essential skills such as designing, soldering, and debugging printed circuit boards (PCBs), and understanding digital communication protocols like SPI, I2C, and USB. It is open to both graduate and qualified undergraduate students from all disciplines.
The Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology with a Mechatronics concentration is a program designed to integrate mechanical, electrical, and computer systems. It focuses on developing solutions for advanced technological challenges, with a specific emphasis on robotics and automation. Graduates gain skills in mechanical design, control systems, and the practical application of hydraulics, pneumatics, and microcontrollers. This program aims to equip students with the technical proficiency to combine hardware and software, analyze and implement mechatronic systems, and understand mechanical principles in manufacturing and robotics. The curriculum includes hands-on laboratory experience and a capstone project involving Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and microcontroller programming. Students can complete this bachelor's degree in an accelerated timeframe of 2.5 years (30 months), allowing them to enter the workforce sooner. The program is delivered on-campus and features a year-round academic calendar with 5-week terms and a simplified scheduling approach where degree paths are pre-set.
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program at Florida Polytechnic University provides a strong foundation in core engineering principles including mechanics, thermodynamics, materials, and system design. This program emphasizes project-based learning, starting with foundational coursework and culminating in a year-long senior capstone project. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies through various upper-level technical electives, allowing them to specialize in areas of interest. The curriculum is designed to develop technical competence, teamwork, and innovation skills, preparing graduates for diverse engineering careers or further academic pursuits.
Stony Brook University offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Master of Science (MS) program in Mechanical Engineering for highly qualified undergraduate students. This five-year program allows students to count a maximum of two graduate courses taken during their senior undergraduate year towards both their bachelor's and master's degrees. This structure can significantly reduce the time needed to complete both degrees, typically allowing students to finish their MS in just one additional year (two semesters) after their bachelor's, compared to the usual three to four semesters. The application process is streamlined for internal Stony Brook ME undergraduates, often not requiring a formal application or letters of recommendation.

The Collaborative Accelerated Master’s Programs (CAMPs) allow students at partner institutions to begin working towards a WPI Master's degree while still completing their undergraduate studies. By applying and being accepted into a WPI graduate program during their undergraduate career, students can accelerate their path to a Master's degree upon completing their bachelor's. This program is designed to save students both time and money by allowing eligible undergraduate credits to count towards their Master's degree requirements.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering program at Rice University is designed for students who want to develop advanced knowledge and conduct original research in mechanical engineering. The program aims to equip students with the skills to become leaders and researchers in the field. Students will gain expertise in a specialized area through in-depth study and research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to scientific knowledge.
The Department of Mechanical Science & Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering. This program integrates fundamental scientific principles with traditional mechanical engineering disciplines. Research focuses on critical societal issues in health, security, energy, environment, manufacturing, and transportation. Students can specialize in areas such as nanomechanics, biomechanics, and computational science and engineering. The department emphasizes a research-driven curriculum with opportunities for both traditional PhD pathways (requiring a prior Master's degree) and direct PhD pathways (for those entering with a Bachelor's degree). The program aims to equip graduates with a deep understanding of core mechanical engineering areas, the ability to conduct independent research, and strong communication and collaboration skills. Faculty and students engage in theoretical and experimental investigations across a wide range of topics, supported by numerous research centers and laboratories.
The Engineering Dual Degree program at Maryville University offers a unique pathway to becoming a qualified engineer. This program allows you to spend your first three years at Maryville, completing an undergraduate degree in science with a focus on mathematics and specific science courses relevant to engineering fields like biomedical, chemical, or computer science. Following this, you will transfer to a partner institution – Washington University in St. Louis, the University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC), or Missouri University of Science and Technology – for at least two years to earn your undergraduate engineering degree. This structure combines a strong foundational science education with specialized engineering training, preparing you for a wide range of technical careers.
The Mechanical Engineering graduate program at Caltech is a highly selective, research-oriented program designed to prepare students for advanced research and professional practice in rapidly evolving interdisciplinary technological fields. The program emphasizes developing individual expertise in a chosen specialty while building a strong foundation in basic and engineering sciences. Students are encouraged to cultivate independence, creativity, leadership, and a capacity for continuous learning. The department offers both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees. Admission is preferentially granted to applicants intending to pursue a Ph.D. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry (aerospace, energy, semiconductors, high-tech startups), and postdoctoral research.
Boston University's graduate programs in Mechanical Engineering offer a dynamic educational experience. You will gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in designing and building solutions to complex problems. The field is constantly evolving, leading to diverse and expanding career opportunities. These programs are designed to prepare you for professional careers or advanced academic studies, providing academic depth, interdisciplinary insights, and practical experience.
This graduate-level course delves into the complex fluid dynamics of internal flows, with a primary focus on applications in air-breathing propulsion systems, though its concepts are broadly applicable. The course emphasizes "industrial-strength fluid mechanics" presented rigorously, exploring phenomena often not covered in external fluid dynamics studies. Topics include rotational, three-dimensional, unsteady, and flows in non-inertial coordinate systems. The aim is to foster an understanding and the ability to quantify these phenomena, developing flow models that provide physical insight and complement computational techniques. Students will learn to interpret simulation results and extract key features of complex internal flows.

The Master of Engineering (MEng) in Automotive Engineering program focuses on the advanced technologies shaping the future of transportation. This program is designed for students who want to be at the forefront of innovation in areas like self-driving cars, hybrid electric vehicles, and battery systems. You will develop critical integrative skills to address complex challenges in automotive design, considering factors like cost, function, safety, and performance from a holistic perspective. The program can be completed fully online or on-campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan, offering flexibility for international students. This 30-credit program allows for specialization through various career pathways and requires a strong foundation in integrative science and core automotive engineering principles. Graduates will be equipped to lead technological advancements that impact not only transportation but also the environment, commerce, and public policy.
The Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University is designed for students seeking advanced technical knowledge and skills in the field. This program emphasizes practical application and professional development, preparing graduates for leadership roles in industry and engineering. Ranked among the top ten mechanical engineering programs in the nation, Texas A&M offers a robust curriculum supported by distinguished faculty and extensive research opportunities. Students in the M.Eng. program benefit from a flexible structure that includes core mathematics, technical electives, and options for both on-campus and distance learning courses. The department actively engages in cutting-edge research, leveraging federal and industry support to advance knowledge in mechanical engineering. This program aims to cultivate graduates who will have a significant societal and professional impact.
The Master of Mechanical Engineering (MME) at Rice University is a non-thesis degree designed for students who want to advance their careers as practicing engineers. This program offers in-depth knowledge of advanced mechanical engineering topics, enhancing your technical skills and competitiveness in the job market. It's ideal for those with an undergraduate degree in engineering or a related field who are looking to deepen their expertise without pursuing a research-focused academic path. You can enroll as a full-time or part-time student.
Florida Polytechnic University offers a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in this dynamic field. The program allows students to choose between a course-only pathway or a thesis pathway, catering to different career aspirations. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for leadership roles in engineering and technology sectors.
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.
The Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin offers graduate programs designed to provide in-depth, research-based education and training. The department is committed to fostering a supportive community and attracting diverse, high-achieving students dedicated to solving societal challenges. Prospective students can pursue graduate studies in Mechanical Engineering or Operations Research and Industrial Engineering.
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program at USC Viterbi provides advanced technical education for professionals aiming for leadership roles in diverse industries such as aerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing. The program encourages students to specialize in one of ten recommended areas, allowing for a focused education that builds upon a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals and applications. This degree prepares graduates for doctoral studies or to advance their careers in industry.
The Mechanical Engineering graduate program at Stony Brook University aims to equip students with advanced knowledge in fundamental principles and prepare them for careers in research and development, academia, or leadership roles in government agencies. Students can specialize in mechanical design, solid mechanics, or thermal sciences and fluid mechanics, focusing on experimental, analytical, or computational approaches. The program offers flexibility with many courses available in the late afternoon or evening, making it suitable for part-time students. The Master of Science (MS) program is designed for students with professional aspirations in industry or government. Stony Brook also offers a combined five-year Bachelor of Engineering/Master of Science program. Two new MS specializations are available: Energy Technologies, focusing on hands-on experience and theory in areas like heat pumps, solar thermal, wind turbines, and fuel cells; and Robotics, covering design, analysis, perception, and control of robotic systems with a balance of theory, programming, and hardware experience.
Carnegie Mellon's Department of Mechanical Engineering (MechE) offers rigorous graduate programs designed to equip students with professional skills and talents. These programs blend in-depth knowledge of fundamental mechanical engineering principles with a broad understanding of emerging, interdisciplinary fields. The curriculum emphasizes a balance between classroom learning and hands-on research and practical experience, fostering innovation and collaboration to solve complex problems.
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program at Western New England University is designed to equip students with advanced skills to address evolving technological challenges in areas like sustainability and production. The program offers concentrations in Mechanical Engineering and Mechatronics, catering to both full-time and part-time students. It emphasizes independent research, project management, and practical application of theoretical knowledge. This master's degree is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their expertise, innovate future technologies, and enhance their career prospects. Graduates are prepared to meet current industry demands and contribute to advancements that improve quality of life. The curriculum focuses on developing sophisticated problem-solving abilities and practical research experience.
The Mechanical Engineering major at Stony Brook University provides a comprehensive education and training designed to prepare you for immediate entry into the job market. You will gain practical, hands-on experience in designing, building, and testing various tools and machines through coursework and laboratory work. The program is ABET-accredited and offers opportunities for students to engage in research and participate in national and international engineering competitions.


The Mechanical Engineering program at the United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) focuses on applying scientific principles to the design and enhancement of mechanical and energy systems. Students engage with practical design challenges that foster creativity in solving real-world problems, with a particular emphasis on applications relevant to the Coast Guard. The curriculum provides a robust foundation for a career as a Coast Guard Officer, for professional engineering practice, and for advanced academic pursuits.
This program focuses on the analysis of structures using computational tools. Students will learn to apply Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, specifically ANSYS, to model and solve complex engineering problems. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, guiding students through detailed steps to set up, analyze, and interpret results for structural components. Key learning objectives include determining deflections, stresses, and reaction forces, as well as understanding the practical applications of these analyses in real-world engineering scenarios. Students will gain hands-on experience in creating 3D models, defining material properties, and meshing for analysis. The program uses a self-paced, web-based learning format, allowing flexibility for students to progress at their own speed. It covers essential aspects of structural analysis, from defining basic geometry and material properties to applying loads and boundary conditions. The ultimate goal is to equip students with the skills to independently perform and validate structural simulations, fostering a deeper understanding of mechanical behavior under various loads.
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering equips students with the foundational principles and practical application skills needed to design, build, and innovate physical systems. Mechanical engineers are responsible for creating the devices and systems that shape modern society, from energy solutions and transportation to robotics and biomedical devices. This program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work and computer simulations, preparing graduates for diverse career paths or further graduate studies.

The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, create, and maintain a wide range of advanced machinery that impacts daily life. This program focuses on the principles of mechanical engineering, preparing graduates for diverse roles in innovation and development.
The Mechatronics concentration within the Associate of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology program focuses on advanced manufacturing systems. This field combines mechanical, electronic, and computer-based systems, and graduates will be skilled in all three areas. The program is designed to equip students with the technical proficiency to integrate diverse systems, apply mechanical principles in mechatronics and robotics (including microcontroller programming), and analyze and implement mechatronic systems through hands-on laboratory experience. This interdisciplinary approach prepares students to be a vital link between engineers and technicians throughout the production process, from conception to testing.
The Mechatronics Engineering program at CSUCI integrates computer hardware, electronics, and mechanical engineering, placing students at the forefront of a rapidly advancing field. You will engage with faculty conducting research in areas such as mobile robotics, embedded systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles, gaining insights into how engineering is influenced by business, politics, and societal factors. This program offers a unique opportunity to be part of a specialized engineering discipline, with CSUCI being one of only three California State Universities to offer a mechatronics degree.
The Master of Science (MS) in Mechanical Engineering program at NYU Tandon School of Engineering prepares students to be inventors and innovators in the field. Mechanical engineers design and develop the physical systems and devices essential to modern society, ranging from transportation and energy systems to robotics and biomedical devices. This program emphasizes a philosophy of invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship (i2e), encouraging students to translate ideas into practical applications and new ventures. The MS degree can serve as a terminal degree for entering various professional fields or as a foundation for pursuing a PhD. Graduates often find roles in areas such as computer engineering, nanotechnology, software development, financial engineering, bioengineering, manufacturing, astronautics, systems engineering, and environmental sustainability.
The Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University is designed for students seeking to contribute significantly to advanced research in the field. This program requires a minimum of 96 semester credit hours for students entering with a bachelor's degree, or 64 semester credit hours for those with a master's degree. Students will work closely with world-renowned faculty to identify a dissertation advisor and conduct cutting-edge research. All admitted Ph.D. students receive comprehensive financial support, including a monthly stipend, tuition and fee remission, and employee health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years for students entering with a bachelor's degree, and four years for those with a master's degree, provided academic good standing is maintained. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematics and core mechanical engineering concepts, complemented by specialized technical electives and significant research engagement. Students are required to pass a Qualifying Exam and form a dissertation committee with diverse faculty representation, including members from outside the Mechanical Engineering Department.
The Ph.D. program in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science (MEMS) at Duke University offers students the opportunity to collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research. The program emphasizes a low faculty-to-student ratio, fostering a close-knit academic community. Peer mentorship and support are provided through an active Graduate Student Committee. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum, allowing them to tailor their academic path to their specific professional goals. Research areas within the MEMS department are diverse and include Aerospace Engineering, Dynamics, Controls & Robotics, Materials Science & Biomaterials, Mechanics, Design & Computing, and Thermal Fluids & Energy. The department encourages students to explore these areas and define their unique research trajectory. More details about faculty, ongoing research, and student projects can be found on the departmental website.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering at Stony Brook University is a research-intensive program designed for students aiming for advanced careers in academia or industry. The program focuses on developing independent research capabilities, culminating in a significant original contribution to the field. Students will engage in advanced coursework, rigorous examinations, and in-depth dissertation research under the guidance of faculty experts. The curriculum allows for specialization in core areas such as Design and Manufacturing, Solid Mechanics, or Thermal Sciences and Fluid Mechanics, with the flexibility to select a minor area of concentration from a broad range of related disciplines. This program prepares graduates to tackle complex engineering challenges and lead innovation.
The PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Western New England University is designed to nurture innovators and shape the future of the field. This research-oriented program is ideal for individuals who aspire to careers in Research and Development, Research Management, or Academia. It offers the opportunity to conduct significant research, contribute to the body of knowledge in mechanical engineering, and deepen your understanding of complex technological systems. Students will select a faculty advisor early in their studies and gain access to state-of-the-art laboratories and academic resources. The program emphasizes both depth and breadth of knowledge, allowing students to specialize in areas like Mechatronics and Robotics, Thermo-fluids and Energy, Vibrations and Mechanics, Energy Systems, Novel Materials, and Design and Manufacturing. The curriculum combines coursework with independent research, culminating in a dissertation. The program also offers opportunities to develop mentorship and teaching skills by working with undergraduates on research and design projects. Faculty members are actively involved in research with international standing and strong industry ties, providing students with valuable mentorship and learning partnerships.
The Theoretical and Applied Mechanics (TAM) program at Northwestern Engineering offers both Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. It is a highly-ranked program recognized nationally for its research and academic excellence. The program boasts award-winning faculty with international renown, providing graduate students with extensive opportunities for knowledge advancement and career development within a supportive scholarly community that emphasizes individual attention and effective mentoring. Graduates are prepared to become leaders in research, academia, and corporate environments.
There are 49 Mechanical Engineering programmes across 26 universities in the United States.
Tuition ranges from free (for some fully funded graduate programmes) to about €52,000 per year. Costs depend on institution type, degree level, and whether students receive assistantship funding.
Programmes are offered at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Rice University, University of Maryland College Park, New York University, Florida Polytechnic University, and United States Coast Guard Academy, among 26 universities.
Yes. International applicants typically need a relevant undergraduate degree (for graduate programmes), GRE scores, English language test results, and strong academic transcripts. Many graduate positions are funded through research assistantships.
Undergraduate applicants need a secondary school diploma with strong mathematics and science results. Graduate applicants require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, competitive test scores, and letters of recommendation.