The Best Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering Programs

Overview

A master’s degree in mechanical engineering helps students build advanced expertise in designing, analyzing, and improving complex mechanical systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), mechanical engineers earn a median annual salary of $012,320, and professionals with graduate-level training often qualify for higher-paying roles in research, product development, systems engineering, and technical leadership.

Most online mechanical engineering master’s programs require approximately 30 credit hours (about ten courses), allowing full-time students to finish in around two years. Tuition varies widely by institution, with total program costs averaging $23,654, depending on whether the school is public or private and whether students qualify for in-state tuition rates.

How to Choose an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering Program

1. Choose your area of study

Online master’s degrees in mechanical engineering are most commonly offered as a Master of Engineering (MEng) or a Master of Science (MS). While both cover core mechanical engineering principles, the MEng typically emphasizes industry-focused, practical applications, whereas the MS leans more toward research, analysis, and academic study.

Many programs also offer concentrations that allow you to tailor your coursework to a specific specialty. Popular options include:

• Robotics and autonomous systems
• Manufacturing and production engineering
• Thermofluids and heat transfer
• Materials engineering
• Mechatronics

If you already have a target career path, such as aerospace design, renewable energy systems, or advanced manufacturing, prioritize programs offering coursework aligned with those goals.

2. Research schools and programs

Accreditation is one of the most important indicators of program quality. Only consider institutions accredited by a DOE-recognized regional accreditor (e.g., NECHE, NWCCU). Regional accreditation ensures eligibility for federal financial aid and smoother credit transferability.

Additionally, mechanical engineering students should seek ABET accreditation, widely regarded as the gold standard for engineering programs and often essential for professional licensure.

When comparing programs, evaluate factors such as:

• Access to online student services, including tutoring, tech support, career counseling, academic advising, mental health resources, and virtual library databases
• Requirements for hands-on learning, such as internships, industry projects, or virtual simulation labs
• Thesis versus non-thesis options, depending on whether you plan to enter the industry or continue toward a PhD

Use school websites, virtual open houses, admissions conversations, and departmental materials to gain a full understanding of each program’s offerings.

3. Prepare for tests and applications

Admission requirements differ by institution, but most online master’s in mechanical engineering programs require:

• A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field
• Official transcripts that meet minimum GPA requirements (often 3.0 or higher)
• A resume outlining academic or professional experience
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
• A statement of purpose describing your goals and interests

Some programs still require GRE scores, while others have removed the requirement. If you plan to apply to programs that require test scores, begin preparing early and verify the minimum scores and deadlines.

Always confirm exact requirements with an admissions counselor before submitting your application.

4. Select your program

After narrowing your options based on specialization, accreditation, and admissions criteria, assess which programs best align with your goals. Consider the following:

• Overall cost and available scholarships
• Competitiveness and acceptance rates
• Faculty expertise and research interests
• Class format (asynchronous vs. synchronous)
• Student support and online learning infrastructure
• Opportunities for networking, mentorship, or industry engagement

Make sure the program’s delivery format fits your schedule—especially if you need part-time, flexible, or fully online coursework.

5. Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

Understanding the financial component early can help you plan effectively. Steps to take include:

• Completing the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, grants, and low-interest loans
• Speaking with the school’s financial aid office about scholarships, tuition discounts, or employer partnerships
• Exploring state-based aid, veteran benefits, or professional organization scholarships
• Checking whether your employer offers tuition reimbursement or professional development funding

Many students combine federal aid, savings, employer tuition benefits, and school-specific scholarships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering Program?

An online master’s in mechanical engineering builds on the foundational skills gained at the undergraduate level and prepares students for advanced, industry-focused roles. Because mechanical engineers contribute to sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, construction, defense, robotics, manufacturing, and electronics, graduate programs are designed to deepen both technical expertise and leadership capabilities.

Most online programs require approximately 30 credit hours of coursework. This typically includes:

• Core mechanical engineering classes
• Electives tailored to a chosen specialization
• A thesis, design project, or capstone demonstrating advanced problem-solving and research skills

Full-time students can usually complete the degree in two years, while part-time students or working professionals may take three years or more depending on course load. Online formats generally feature flexible scheduling, recorded lectures, and virtual simulation tools, allowing students to balance education with professional commitments.

What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineers are essential contributors to industries ranging from aerospace and energy to advanced manufacturing, robotics, and environmental technology. With an online master’s in mechanical engineering, graduates can qualify for higher-level roles involving system design, research and development, project leadership, process improvement, and innovation.

This degree is especially valuable as organizations continue adopting automation, sustainable technologies, new materials, and complex mechanical systems, expanding the demand for advanced engineering skills.

Below are several common career paths aligned with this degree:

*These figures reflect U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data as of the latest available reporting. Actual salaries vary by location, employer, and level of experience.

Online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering Frequently Asked Questions