Careers and Degrees in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineers provide vital services for society. They improve mechanical systems and troubleshoot issues. Some mechanical engineers create prototypes for new machines.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for mechanical engineers to increase 7% from 2020-2030. This growth projection is about as fast as the average for all U.S. occupations.
Mechanical engineers need at least a bachelor's degree. This guide covers the requirements for earning online bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering. The following sections also explore licensure and career options for graduates.
Questions About Mechanical Engineering
How many years does it take to become a mechanical engineer?
Online bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering take about four years to earn. For licensure, many states require four years of professional experience.
Do mechanical engineers make good money?
Yes. According to the BLS, mechanical engineers earn a median salary of $90,160 per year. This is much higher than the median salary of $41,950 for all occupations.
What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree?
Most graduates become mechanical engineers. Degree-holders can pursue careers in subfields such as auto research and robotic engineering.
Featured Online Mechanical Engineering Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
An online degree in mechanical engineering can lead to meaningful work and high salaries. This STEM degree allows learners to enter the workforce quickly. Unlike many positions in STEM fields, mechanical engineering careers require only a bachelor's degree.
The best online mechanical engineering programs typically require fieldwork. Distance learners often complete internships locally. Many learners continue to work while earning an online degree in mechanical engineering.
Distance learners often save on tuition and commuting costs. The following section covers the cost of earning online bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering.
How Much Does a Mechanical Engineering Degree Cost?
According to a 2021 report by the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of an online bachelor's degree is $51,091. However, the average cost at private schools is $60,593.
College Choice ranks Stanford's offering as number one on its list of the best online mechanical engineering programs. Tuition for Stanford's online degree in mechanical engineering costs $16,695 as of June 9, 2021.
Full-time learners typically earn their bachelor's degree in four years. In addition to tuition costs, degree-seekers should budget for living expenses.
Additional Online Student Fees
Prospective degree-seekers should also budget for fees. Of the schools the Education Data Initiative surveyed, only 17% waived campus fees for online students.
Additionally, online learners often pay a technology fee. This fee covers resources such as database subscriptions. The technology fee may also pay for virtual classroom platforms, such as Blackboard Learn.
Other fees may impact students' college budget. Many schools charge for official transcript requests and graduation ceremonies. Graduates may also need to pay for licensing exams. For example, the Fundamentals of Engineering exam costs $175.
How Much Do Mechanical Engineering Majors Make?
According to Dec. 2021 Payscale data, professionals with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering earn an average salary of $82,000 per year.
Experienced professionals often earn higher salaries. Mechanical engineers with less than one year of experience earn an average annual salary of $64,150, according to Payscale Dec. 2021 data. Those with four years of experience earn an average of $70,010 per year.
Geographic location also impacts earning potential. According to BLS data, mechanical engineers in California earn an average annual salary of $110,070, compared to $85,100 for professionals in Ohio.
Courses in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering students learn how to safely design and test mechanical prototypes. Degree-seekers learn to troubleshoot failures and conduct research.
Most online bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering require about 128 credits. Full-time students typically graduate in four years. Accelerated programs may require only three years. Students who pursue a concentration, such as auto research or heating and cooling systems, may need longer to graduate.
The following list highlights three courses common to mechanical engineering programs. Available classes vary by program. Learners should contact their prospective school for curriculum details.
Design Power-producing Machines
Students in this class learn to create plans for machines such as refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Learners explore the components of steam and gas turbines and internal combustion engines. Degree-seekers learn to use machinery to regulate temperatures and humidity.Mechanical Engineering for the Automobile Industry
This course examines the mechanical components of cars. Learners identify opportunities to enhance a cars' suspension and horsepower. Coursework emphasizes safety features and alternative fuel sources. Participants study basic laws of aerodynamics.The Manufacturing Processes
This course highlights the procedure for manufacturing and distributing new machinery. Students learn basic supply-and-demand principles. Learners discover how to market new products and protect intellectual property. Participants learn how to maintain production machinery.
Featured Online Engineering Programs
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How to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Aspiring mechanical engineers begin by earning a bachelor's degree. Learners should choose a program with accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Mechanical engineering students hone critical thinking skills. They discover how machines operate. Most programs require an internship, during which students complete office work and fieldwork.
Most graduates of mechanical engineering programs take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Passing exam scores and four years of professional experience qualify graduates for mechanical engineering licensure.
Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Mechanical Engineering
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