Interested in creating cutting-edge solutions for the world's greatest problems? Consider a master's degree in mechanical engineering.
Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and most general forms of engineering. It is involved in the analysis, design, and production of any system that has a moving part.
If you like to innovate, a career in mechanical engineering might be for you. Mechanical engineers power the devices you use daily, from electric generators to internal combustion engines, elevators, and even refrigeration systems.
You might design or implement equipment, test or evaluate theoretical designs, or teach others how to think just like you do. Better yet, mechanical engineers are in high demand, with companies all over the country searching for qualified, competent employees.
What kind of mechanical engineering degree should you get?
Graduates from mechanical engineering programs will never be short of work. This is especially true if you pursue and receive an advanced degree. Graduates with master's degree have the ability to nearly double their salaries over a lifetime–a significant consideration to make when shopping for the best program.
Depending on your needs and lifestyle, most graduate programs in mechanical engineering are available either on-campus or online.
While on-campus study provides the best opportunity for innovative, interactive research, an online degree promotes flexibility for busy working adults or first generation learners. If you're considering an online program, check out our list of the top online engineering degrees.
Accredited Online College Programs
Explore our featured online programs and find the right match for you today.
How much money do people make with a mechanical engineering degree?
Mechanical engineers are one of the highest paid starting positions in the country, earning a median salary of $83,000, with the lowest earning no less than $50,000. While pay varies depending on level of experience and industry (for example, mechanical engineers working in oil and gas extraction or information services will make the highest salaries), earning potential is high with this degree.
What can you do with a degree in mechanical engineering?
A person with a degree in mechanical engineering has a wide host of career options. Mechanical engineers work in aerospace, automobile, biomedical, construction, power, railway, information services, and even academic industries.
The most in-demand fields are in software, civil, environmental, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. Mechanical engineers work in all sectors, including the government, private and public industry, and academia. Graduates might be hired by companies such as NASA, Google, Boeing Apple, the Department of Energy, or hundreds of other companies.
Employment is expected to grow by about five percent, as fast as average, but will grow higher in more in-demand fields, such as information services.
What are the requirements for a degree in mechanical engineering?
Generally, graduate applicants must have at least four years of undergraduate in a related field. Some schools don't require a relevant background, but will substitute additional prerequisite courses to make up for potential deficits in mathematics or engineering.
Masters degrees generally take around two to four years, but can be completed more quickly when combined with an undergraduate or doctoral program (often known as 2+3 or accelerated programs). Furthermore, departments will seek graduate candidates who have strong technical and mathematical skills, along with creativity, problem solving abilities, and the ability to work under pressure. Good communication skills are always a plus, too!
What are the best mechanical engineering degrees?
The best mechanical engineering degree will be one that fits your budget, timeframe, and career goals. Some programs allow for flexibility when designing course schedules, allowing students to specialize and customize their degree paths for optimum job search success.
In addition, the best mechanical engineering degrees contain high levels of both theoretical education and hands-on research. Students need both in order to be exposed to the real-world challenges tackled every day by mechanical engineers. A good program will also include ample financial aid (including opportunities for fellowships or assistantships) and professional services, such as career networking and student organizations.
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.
