Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

A ranking of the best mechanical engineering degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
by

Updated January 31, 2023

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Design your way into a lucrative career with one of the nation’s best Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering degrees.

Are you passionate about both the creative and technical aspects of product design? Are you interested in the social, global, economical, and ethical implications of design? Are you a problem solver who never shies away from a challenge?

Then a career in mechanical engineering may be just for you!

What kind of Mechanical Engineering degree should you get?

Each of the programs below will provide a solid foundation in systems design, thermodynamics, manufacturing, and materials science. But each program also varies slightly in its emphasis and model.

For example, while some schools stress the importance of real-world experience, offering internship and co-op programs, others want you to dock as many lab hours as possible. Those schools often offer exhaustive research opportunities.

Though these programs vary, be sure to find a fit that reflects your interests and passions.

You should also consider online or distance learning. Online education, having shed its old stigma, is now a flexible and affordable way to advance your education and career.

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Also check out College Choice’s Best Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees.

How much money do people make with a Mechanical Engineering degree?

With a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering degree you are set up to work in a diverse range of industries and fields. From corporate business to government agencies, the need for someone who can design successful and economical products continues to rise.

In fact, it’s projected that demand for mechanical engineers will rise another 9 percent in the next few years.

The industry is not only stable and growing, but it’s lucrative too. Mechanical engineers make, on average, upwards of $84,000 a year. Though that number can leap into triple digits depending on the job title. Senior engineers make close to $133,000 annually.

What are the requirements for a Mechanical Engineering degree?

To earn a BS in Mechanical Engineering degree you will spend at least the first year of your undergrad taking chemistry, physics, and introductory engineering classes. Once those are completed you can dive into specialized engineering classes and their laboratory counterparts. Examples of such courses include:

At many schools you can further specialize by pairing your degree with a formal concentration. These vary by school, but include biomechanics, materials processing, manufacturing, thermal and fluid systems, among others.

Finally, many programs encourage you to participate in hands-on experience through paid co-op programs and internships. We’ve been sure to note those.

What are the best Mechanical Engineering degrees?

Though some of these programs are housed within elite polytechnical schools and others in sprawling research universities, all 35 share one thing in common: they are the nation’s best Mechanical Engineering degrees.

To determine the best mechanical engineering degrees we looked at every program across the nation that offers one. We then narrowed the list by incorporating crucial factors, such as reputation and student retention, which is a sign of student satisfaction. Finally, we looked at early salaries of graduates and tuition rates too. What we found after such extensive research are the nation’s best programs for training mechanical engineers.

Our figures and information come from the university and colleges’ websites, PayScale, and nationally recognized U.S. News & World Report and The National Center for Education Statistics.

Rankings

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Stanford University

  • Stanford, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Stanford University enrolls learners in 63 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in mechanical engineering. With this degree, students bring the knowledge and skills required for careers in diverse industries. The degree also prepares graduates for master's-level programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum introduces major principles and practices in mechanical engineering. General education courses emphasize in-demand skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Degree-seekers can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates transition into a bachelor's program. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships while academic advisors suggest course options.

Stanford University at a Glance:

Location: Stanford, California

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 4%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $52,857

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $52,857

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,857
Out-of-state
$52,857
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$52,479
Out-of-state
$52,479
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
4%
Students Enrolled
17,249
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

  • Cambridge, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers 39 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering that stands out for its quality. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for additional degrees, such as a master's or doctorate.

The curriculum covers introductory mechanical engineering courses and advanced topics. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Minors and double majors allow learners to explore their other academic and professional interests.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, career counselors help students identify strengths and plan for the job market.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 7%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $53,450

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $53,450

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,450
Out-of-state
$53,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$53,450
Out-of-state
$53,450
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
7%
Students Enrolled
11,520
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
0% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Brown University

  • Providence, RI
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Brown University offers a top-ranking bachelor's in mechanical engineering program. From its campus in Providence, Rhode Island, the private school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

The curriculum incorporates general education and major courses to build in-demand knowledge and skills. Social science, humanities, and STEM classes complement the courses in the major. Learners study theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing them for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

Brown University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 7%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 93

Undergrad Tuition In State: $57,112

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $57,112

Graduation Rate: 96%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $64,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,112
Out-of-state
$57,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$57,112
Out-of-state
$57,112
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
7%
Students Enrolled
10,333
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

University of California, Berkeley

  • Berkeley, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering at University of California, Berkeley, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the Berkeley campus. The school's flexible course options, along with high academic standards, meet the needs of many undergraduates.

Enrollees earn a bachelor's after taking mechanical engineering and general education courses. Classes in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. The mechanical engineering curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

University of California, Berkeley at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 16%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 107

Undergrad Tuition In State: $11,442

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $41,196

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $19,323

Graduation Rate: 93%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $57,600

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
43,185
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#5 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus enrolls learners in 39 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering. The program prepares students for a variety of careers in many different industries. Graduates can also apply to master's programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum includes lower-division and upper-division mechanical engineering classes. Undergraduates also strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills during general education classes. Minors and double majors allow students to explore their other academic and professional interests.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's program. For example, financial aid counselors meet with students to identify their financial need and suggest funding sources.

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus at a Glance:

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 21%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,258

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $31,370

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,258
Out-of-state
$31,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,064
Out-of-state
$29,140
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
36,302
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Cornell University

  • Ithaca, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cornell University welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor of science in mechanical engineering program. The private school, located in Ithaca, New York, offers both in-person and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive college support services.

The program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced mechanical engineering courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Cornell University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 11%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 97

Undergrad Tuition In State: $56,550

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $56,550

Graduation Rate: 95%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $76,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,550
Out-of-state
$56,550
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$29,500
Out-of-state
$29,500
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
11%
Students Enrolled
24,027
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
4% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Washington University in St. Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Missouri-based Washington University in St. Louis offers a top-ranked bachelor of science in mechanical engineering. The private school offers flexible enrollment options, including online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

Enrollees build comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. The major curriculum covers theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in diverse industries.

Washington University in St. Louis at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 14%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 105

Undergrad Tuition In State: $54,250

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $54,250

Graduation Rate: 95%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $63,400

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
16,191
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#8 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

  • Ann Arbor, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in engineering in mechanical engineering at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, which offers 129 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Graduates bring the knowledge and skills required for careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's degree-holders can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum trains learners in the core principles and practices of mechanical engineering. Undergraduates also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills through general education classes. Students complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, academic advisors work with learners to make a graduation plan that takes transfer credits into account.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor at a Glance:

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 23%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $16,212

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $52,669

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,212
Out-of-state
$52,669
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$23,890
Out-of-state
$48,204
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
48,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Stevens Institute of Technology

  • Hoboken, NJ
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering degree at Stevens Institute of Technology, a private institution, ranks among the best programs of its kind. Degree-seekers take classes online and on the Hoboken, New Jersey, campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible enrollment options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive college support services.

The program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Upper-division mechanical engineering classes cover theoretical and practical topics, preparing graduates for entry-level careers or further education.

Stevens Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 40%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 31

Undergrad Tuition In State: $52,134

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $52,134

Graduation Rate: 85%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $67,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,134
Out-of-state
$52,134
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,680
Out-of-state
$36,680
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
7,283
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Northwestern University

  • Evanston, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering program at Northwestern University, a private institution, earns top marks. Degree-seekers take classes in person on the Evanston, Illinois, campus and online. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.

Students take major and general education courses to complete their degree. The general education curriculum strengthens communication and critical thinking skills through coursework in diverse academic fields. Graduates prepare for the workforce or a further degree by taking advanced mechanical engineering courses that cover theoretical and practical topics.

Northwestern University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 9%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 115

Undergrad Tuition In State: $56,232

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $56,232

Graduation Rate: 94%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $71,900

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,232
Out-of-state
$56,232
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$56,067
Out-of-state
$56,067
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
22,448
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#11 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Duke University

  • Durham, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Duke University offers 68 bachelor's degrees, including the top-ranked bachelor's in mechanical engineering and materials science. This program encourages the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also continue their education in master's programs.

The curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in mechanical engineering. Undergraduates also take general education courses, which strengthen communication, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Students gain a well-rounded education by declaring a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates benefit from student services, which provide support for first-year learners. For example, academic advisors work with students to make a graduation plan that takes transfer credits into account.

Duke University at a Glance:

Location: Durham, North Carolina

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 8%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $55,880

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $55,880

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,880
Out-of-state
$55,880
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,680
Out-of-state
$55,680
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
16,686
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

United States Naval Academy

  • Annapolis, MD
  • 4 years
  • Campus

United States Naval Academy offers 27 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in mechanical engineering. Degree-holders can pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for additional degrees, such as a master's or doctorate.

The curriculum includes lower-division and upper-division mechanical engineering classes. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education courses that build writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Electives, minors, and double majors allow enrollees to explore other academic and professional interests.

Student services help incoming degree candidates transition into the school's community. For example, academic advisors meet with learners to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.

United States Naval Academy at a Glance:

Location: Annapolis, Maryland

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 8%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
8%
Students Enrolled
4,538
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
No

#13 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Lehigh University

  • Bethlehem, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering program, one of 75 bachelor's programs at Lehigh University, offers a flexible route to a college degree. Graduates can pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's degree-holders can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum covers foundational concepts and methods in mechanical engineering. General education courses emphasize in-demand skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Students can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, financial aid counselors work with students to determine sources of educational funding such as grants, scholarships, and loans.

Lehigh University at a Glance:

Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 32%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $54,790

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $54,790

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,790
Out-of-state
$54,790
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,000
Out-of-state
$27,000
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
6,953
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#14 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

  • Troy, NY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The bachelor of science in mechanical engineering program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute ranks high among programs of its type. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in mechanical engineering. General education courses emphasize in-demand skills like communication, writing, and critical thinking. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps students explore other interests.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates thrive in their bachelor's program. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:

Location: Troy, New York

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 47%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $54,000

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $54,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,000
Out-of-state
$54,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,000
Out-of-state
$54,000
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
7,528
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#15 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

  • Worcester, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute ranks high among programs of its type. The degree prepares students for a variety of entry-level careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's graduates can also continue their education in master's programs.

The curriculum introduces key mechanical engineering topics and principles. Undergraduates also gain communication, writing, and critical thinking skills in general education courses. Students gain interdisciplinary skills by declaring a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates receive strong support from the school's student services. For example, financial aid counselors work closely with learners to identify scholarship and grant opportunities.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:

Location: Worcester, Massachusetts

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 49%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $51,604

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $51,604

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$51,604
Out-of-state
$51,604
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$28,188
Out-of-state
$28,188
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
6,894
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#16 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Rice University

  • Houston, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in mechanical engineering at Rice University, a private institution, prioritizes flexibility. The Houston, Texas-based school offers both in-person and online classes. Undergraduates benefit from rigorous academic standards and comprehensive college support services.

The program strengthens in-demand skills through general education and major courses. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Graduates prepare for the workforce or further education by taking upper-division mechanical engineering classes.

Rice University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 9%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 60

Undergrad Tuition In State: $48,330

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $48,330

Graduation Rate: 93%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $68,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$48,330
Out-of-state
$48,330
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$48,791
Out-of-state
$48,791
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
9%
Students Enrolled
7,282
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#17 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

The University of Texas at Austin

  • Austin, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in mechanical engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, which offers 110 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. This program incorporates knowledge and skills that prepare students for many careers. Graduates can also pursue a master's degree or a doctorate, which can open up additional career paths.

The curriculum introduces major principles and practices in mechanical engineering. Undergraduates also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills through general education classes. Students complement their major by selecting a minor or double majoring.

Student services supports incoming degree candidates academically and socially. Financial aid counselors work with enrollees to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

The University of Texas at Austin at a Glance:

Location: Austin, Texas

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 32%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $10,824

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $38,326

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,824
Out-of-state
$38,326
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,998
Out-of-state
$22,966
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
51,090
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#18 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in mechanical engineering at Purdue University-Main Campus, which offers 145 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Graduates enter the workforce prepared for diverse careers with this degree. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The curriculum covers core and advanced topics in mechanical engineering. Undergraduates also gain research, writing, and communication skills through general education requirements. Minors and second majors allow students to explore their other interests.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. Financial aid counselors work with enrollees to determine the best sources of educational funding, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

Purdue University-Main Campus at a Glance:

Location: West Lafayette, Indiana

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 60%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,208

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $28,010

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#19 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in mechanical engineering at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign prioritizes accessibility in its course options. With this degree, graduates can pursue entry-level careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's degree-holders can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The curriculum covers introductory mechanical engineering courses and advanced topics. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, career counselors recommend job training workshops and offer career assessments.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:

Location: Champaign, Illinois

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 59%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,188

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $33,127

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,188
Out-of-state
$33,127
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,997
Out-of-state
$28,404
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
51,605
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#20 Best Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Columbia University in the City of New York

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Columbia University in the City of New York enrolls learners in 90 bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in mechanical engineering program. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. After completing a bachelor's degree, graduates can also continue their education in master's programs.

The curriculum covers core and advanced topics in mechanical engineering. In addition to major coursework, undergraduates take general education courses that build writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students can explore other interests by declaring a complementary minor or second major.

Student services support incoming degree candidates as they begin taking classes. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships while academic advisors suggest course options.

Columbia University in the City of New York at a Glance:

Location: New York, New York

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 5%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $57,763

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $57,763

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$57,763
Out-of-state
$57,763
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,600
Out-of-state
$47,600
Retention Rate
99%
Acceptance Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
31,456
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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