Are you interested in designing power-producing machines? Learn more about the 25 best online master’s in mechanical engineering.
If you choose to earn your master’s degree in mechanical engineering, you’ll have the opportunity to take your career in the direction you want. There are a variety of engineering fields within the industry, mechanical engineering being the most broad. Mechanical engineers design, produce, and analyze a variety of machinery and devices.
Featured Programs
Typically, mechanical engineers need an advanced understanding of computer technology in order to properly create and analyze machine systems. If taking part in the manufacturing process and being well-versed in technology interests you then, a master’s in mechanical engineering is the perfect fit.
What Is an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering Degree?
An online master’s in mechanical engineering is best suited for students that have already completed their bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field of study such as aerospace engineering.
A master’s degree will move young professionals forward in the industry by diving deeper into the dynamics of mechanical systems. Students will focus on learning about engineering design, thermodynamics, mechanics of materials, and computational methods.
Most students complete an online master’s in mechanical engineering within two years. Some colleges offer accelerated or part-time programs.
For a general engineering degree, check out OSR’s Best Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering.
How Much Can You Earn with an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering?
Mechanical engineering is a broad field within the engineering sector, so your earnings will depend on where you choose to take your knowledge. Mechanical engineers typically work in software, civil, aerospace, environmental, and biomedical engineering.
According to PayScale, professionals that have earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering make an average salary of $83,000.
Here are potential job titles that you may qualify for:
- Mechanical Engineer
- Project Engineer
- Mechanical Design Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Product Development Engineer
What is required for an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering degree?
Most master’s programs will require applicants to have earned a four-year undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering or another related field. There are some programs that admit students who don’t have a previous engineering background within the program as long as they have obtained a bachelor’s degree in something else.
It’s common for accredited institutions to require entrance exams during the application process, such as the GRE and GMAT. However, some programs will offer alternatives. It’s always a plus if you have professional experience!
What are the best Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
-
University of Central Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,916(in state) / $25,759(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis options available
- Two education tracks to choose from
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreThe University of Central Florida offers the best master’s degree in mechanical engineering. Through the College of Engineering and Computer Science, UCF has developed a program for busy professionals. The two education tracks offered are Mechanical Systems and Thermofluids.
-
Auburn University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,342(in state) / $28,026(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- GRE scores are required
- Thesis and non-thesis option available
School Wide
Program Level
99%OSR ScoreEarn your master’s in mechanical engineering through Auburn University entirely online! If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent, AU still encourages undergraduate applications with degrees in other science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines to apply. You may be required to take certain undergraduate mechanical engineering courses before starting the master’s program.
-
Mississippi State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,208(in state) / $22,248(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis option offered
- GRE required for students who didn’t graduate from ABET-accredited programs
School Wide
Program Level
94%OSR ScoreYou can complete your master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Mississippi State within two years completely online. During your first semester, you’ll work closely with your major professor on your program of study. Once you begin your studies, your courses will include engineering analysis, conduct heat transfer, and dynamical systems.
-
University of Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $10,770(in state) / $27,335(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis degree option
- Three plans of study to choose from
School Wide
Program Level
91%OSR ScoreEarn your master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a focus in Dynamics, Systems, and Control; Solid Mechanics, Design, and Manufacturing; or Thermal Science and Fluid Dynamics. If you choose the non-thesis track, you will have to take a comprehensive final examination in order to graduate. UF requires students to take a minimum set of courses per semester throughout the program.
-
Kansas State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,960(in state) / $22,483(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- In-person oral exam required to graduate
- Course work-only program
School Wide
Program Level
90%OSR ScoreKansas State University offers a master’s program in mechanical engineering that can be completed online, with a requirement to travel to the university once. At the end of the program, students are required to attend a final oral examination by the student’s supervisory committee. Classes are delivered in 16-week semesters.
-
University of Idaho
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,722(in state) / $23,046(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Only non-thesis degree available
- Focus plan of study required
School Wide
Program Level
89%OSR ScoreIf you want to work as a project manager or project engineer in the industrial setting, this is the master’s program for you. The University of Idaho designed a master’s program in mechanical engineering that is tailored to engineers who have or are seeking industrial experience. It’s required that you and your professor submit an annual report of progress.
-
University of Southern California
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $43,200(in state) / $43,200(out of state)
- Total of 27 units
- Four programs of study to choose from
- Specialization courses required
School Wide
Program Level
87%OSR ScoreIf you earn your master’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Southern California, you have the opportunity to work within a variety of areas. Some of these areas include aerospace and defense, automotive, and refrigeration systems. Your core and elective requirements will be determined by the specialization you choose.
-
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,712(in state) / $20,344(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA
- GRE not required
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreKnown as one of the oldest and largest graduate programs at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, the mechanical engineering graduate program is highly respected. The program is designed with two areas of emphasis: mechanical science and thermal/fluid science. There is a thesis and independent study option available.
-
University of Delaware
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $31,860(in state) / $31,860(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- GRE waivers are considered
- Online/hybrid format
School Wide
Program Level
84%OSR ScoreEarn your master’s degree in mechanical engineering by taking one or more courses per term at the University of Delaware. This program promises that you will receive the same faculty with the same tuition pricing as you would if you were on campus. You will be required to take intermediate engineering mathematics.
-
Johns Hopkins University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $52,170(in state) / $52,170(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Focus area required
- Only one C-range grade can count toward your degree
School Wide
Program Level
82%OSR ScoreThrough John Hopkins University’s mechanical engineering program, you can complete your MS degree directly online within two years. You must complete ten courses within five years from starting the program. Although students are required to choose one of four focus areas to study, the focus area selected does not appear on the final transcript.
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,186(in state) / $28,773(out of state)
- Total of 32 credit hours
- Three main tracks available
- GRE required
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreYou can complete your master’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at your own pace. With full-time and part-time course schedules, this is an excellent choice for working students. The three main tracks to choose from are design, energy, or manufacturing.
-
Stanford University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $48,987(in state) / $48,987(out of state)
- Total of 45 units
- Financial aid provided for online programs
- Some on-campus attendance will be required for graduation
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreStanford University understands the importance behind specializing in a certain area within mechanical engineering. Throughout this master’s program, students are required to take certain core courses that may result in having to attend on campus. Some of the requirements include mathematics fundamentals, breadth and depth courses, and a laboratory course.
-
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $26,226(in state) / $26,226(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Non-thesis degree
- Must choose specialization
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreWorcester Polytechnic Institute’s mechanical engineering master’s program has been around for 150 years. This program does not offer a thesis option online, but does have a thesis option on campus. Students are required to choose one of five specializations: aerospace, structures and materials, dynamics and control, fluid engineering, or design and manufacturing.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,208(in state) / $28,010(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis degree options offered
- Allowed to take a semester off
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreIf you want to be confident and connected during your master’s program even though you’re an online student, this is the program for you. Purdue University offers a variety of degree options that will work with your schedule. Once you’re enrolled, you will work closely with an advisor to map out your plan of study.
-
University of North Dakota
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,688(in state) / $20,526(out of state)
- Total of 30-32 credit hours
- Thesis or non-thesis option available
- GRE required if prerequisite degree is not ABET-accredited
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreIf you want to become a leader within the field of mechanical engineering, the master’s program at the University of North Dakota is calling your name. This program can be completed within two years and offers different degree tracks. Students are required to complete a research project and thesis, or complete an independent study and written report.
-
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,854(in state) / $28,951(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis degree options available
- GRE/GMAT required
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreMissouri University of Science and Technology understands the high demand for mechanical engineers. During this master’s program, you’ll be fully equipped with the latest industry knowledge to prepare you for the workforce. All courses are taught completely online through live streaming video.
-
Stevens Institute of Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $34,494(in state) / $34,494(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Seven concentration options
- Thesis and non-thesis options offered
School Wide
Program Level
72%OSR ScoreDid you know the Stevens Institute of Technology was the first college in the United States to offer a degree in mechanical engineering? This program offers a customizable curriculum with only two mandated core courses: Modeling and Simulation, and Engineering Analysis I. A one-year fast track master’s program is offered to students as well.
-
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,492(in state) / $23,967(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- No thesis is required
- Must complete program within six years
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScoreNorth Carolina State University at Raleigh offers a master’s in mechanical engineering that doesn’t require a thesis, final oral exam, or on-campus attendance. NC State encourages graduate students to take one course during the first semester. Full-time students take nine credits per semester; part-time students typically take three to six credits per semester.
-
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $20,470(in state) / $20,470(out of state)
- Total of 32 credit hours
- Research paper requirement
- GRE required
School Wide
Program Level
70%OSR ScorePenn State promises its online master’s program in mechanical engineering is of the same quality as its on-campus program. Throughout the program, your courses will be focused in thermal systems and mechanical systems. Regardless of taking this program online or on-campus, all graduates receive the same diploma.
-
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,854(in state) / $27,968(out of state)
- Total of 24 credit hours
- Thesis option only
- GRE score required
School Wide
Program Level
68%OSR ScoreUSC offers an online master’s program in mechanical engineering that prepares students for the proper knowledge to work in the mechanical or nuclear engineering field. Out of the 24 hours of coursework, six hours will be dedicated to the master thesis. Some core classes may include intermediate dynamics, advanced heat transfer, and continuum mechanics.
-
Villanova University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $18,373(in state) / $18,373(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Thesis option required
- Must maintain a “B” average
School Wide
Program Level
68%OSR ScoreWith only 60 applicants enrolled into the mechanical engineering master’s program at Villanova University, you will have a closer relationship with your cohort. If you choose to take part-time classes, you can finish your degree in as little as three years. Naval Surface Warfare Center, The Boeing Company, and Lockheed Martin are this program’s top employers.
-
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,917(in state) / $24,312(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Customizable degree path
- No thesis required
School Wide
Program Level
67%OSR ScoreColorado State University-Fort Collins offers an online mechanical engineering master’s program with a materials engineering focus. Your transcript will reflect that you’ve completed a mechanical engineering specialization. This program can be completed within two years.
-
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,406(in state) / $21,190(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Specialization required
- Thesis or Independent Study option offered
School Wide
Program Level
67%OSR ScoreIf you want to pursue an advanced career in mechanical engineering then the master’s program at New Mexico Institute is the right fit for you. There are four specializations for this degree. Online and part-time students must take two terms of thesis coursework.
-
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,207(in state) / $27,255(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- Enroll any quarter
- Non-ME backgrounds may apply
School Wide
Program Level
66%OSR ScoreStudents typically complete their master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Washington-Seattle Campus within two to three years. Students are allowed to enroll online during any quarter and choose a part-time schedule. Some courses may include thermodynamics, linear systems theory, and digital control system design.
-
Texas A & M University-College Station
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,941(in state) / $16,461(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours
- No final exam or thesis option available
- May accept transfer credits
School Wide
Program Level
66%OSR ScoreTexas A&M offers a master’s program in mechanical engineering entirely online. Although this is a non-thesis degree, there will be at least one written report throughout your studies. Once enrolled, students will work closely with the advisory committee to determine a degree plan.
