Online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering

• Home
• >
• Online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Gain the advanced mechanical engineering skills to excel in any industry.

Mechanical Engineering Program Overview

Accelerate your career with MSU’s online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This program combines the flexibility of online learning with the resources afforded by an R1 research institution, including industry connections and expert mentorship from leading faculty. You’ll build the engineering skills to tackle complex projects, leverage new technologies and innovate in multidisciplinary fields ranging from biomechanics to manufacturing.

Tailor your studies to your career goals with the choice of eight in-demand focus areas. With specialized engineering expertise, you’ll be ready to develop cutting-edge technology and processes in a variety of engineering roles.

The online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program leverages Michigan State University’s extensive mechanical engineering research as well as our connections to industrial giants. With advanced knowledge and skills from an institution ranked among the Top 100 Best Global Universities by Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings 2022, mechanical engineers can position themselves not only to succeed in the classroom but to transform their disciplines and organizations.

Our online master’s degree cultivates the skills to fuel innovative problem solving. Mechanical engineers have the chance to expand their knowledge in a broad, ever-changing discipline that affects every organization, industry and area of research. Online students benefit from the full support of an R1 research institution and mentorship from a faculty advisor to help them reach their individual career goals.

Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at a Glance

---

Full support of an R1 Research Institution

Mentorship from faculty

Eight in-demand track concentrations

No GRE

In-Demand Tracks

The online master’s in mechanical engineering degree offers a choice of eight in-demand tracks:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Computational Modeling
• Controls
• Energy
• Mechanics, Dynamics, and Manufacturing
• Thermal Fluids Science and Engineering
Mechanics, Dynamics, and Manufacturing

Deepen your understanding of forces and motion while expanding your practical skills in mechanical engineering. Core courses include:

• Continuum Mechanics
• Fracture Mechanics and Fatigue
• Linear Elasticity

You’ll also build career-ready expertise through immersive design projects and gain proficiency in mechanics and manufacturing. You’ll graduate prepared to optimize mechanical processes in any industry, from robotics to manufacturing.

Thermal Fluids Science and Engineering

With this focus area, you’ll prepare to address complex engineering challenges that relate to heat transfer, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. You’ll also deepen your understanding of probability and statistics to improve your data analysis skills. Core courses include:

• Conduction Heat Transfer
• Convection Heat Transfer
• Computational Fluid Dynamics

You’ll graduate with the specialized knowledge to build a career in a wide range of fields, from biomechanics to power generation.

Learn more about the curriculum and courses.

---

MSU Mechanical Engineering Faculty

---

The Department of Mechanical Engineering faculty are highly recognized in academic research and industry. Our professors include 12 American Society of Mechanical Engineering (ASME) Fellows as well as six fellows in other prestigious societies. Faculty members have also been recognized by the National Science Foundation, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and the Fulbright Scholar Program.

Professors at MSU are committed to offer individualized mentorship and help our students develop to their full potential as technical professionals. Faculty members prepare engineers to succeed through examples leveraged from research, connections with leading industry practitioners and the collective, multidisciplinary expertise of the MSU College of Engineering.

Learn more about our faculty.

“Mechanical engineers are the world’s problem solvers – we find solutions to challenges that span an array of areas. Our internationally recognized faculty address societal problems in a vast range of areas – including biomechanics, energy, manufacturing, fluid flow, robotics, autonomous vehicles and aerospace. MSU offers tremendous opportunities for students in the pursuit of a graduate degree – beyond that of the classroom. Our faculty are willing to engage with students and share their expertise and experiences related to industry, new product development, start-up ventures or their cutting edge research. We look forward to having you become part of our community.”
Tamara Bush, PhD
ASME Fellow, AIMBE Fellow, Professor, and Associate Dean for Inclusion and Diversity at MSU

“MSU’s online classes are taught by dedicated instructors with years of expertise in engineering. These courses align closely with our research areas, ensuring a high-quality learning experience for students.”
Seungik Baek
MSU ME Associate Professor

“In ME 417, students don’t just analyze the mechanics of alternative energy – they develop their own models for clean energy systems.”
Andre Benard
Associate Professor









Career Outlook for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering

---

17%
Michigan State University Alumni earn 17% more than average

According to Lightcast, the average salary for a mechanical engineer in Michigan is $92,498. However, Master of Engineering alumni from Michigan State University earn an average of $110,131 (PayScale).

MSU Graduates Are Leaders in Mechanical Engineering

Graduates from MSU’s online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering work at the forefront of technological innovation. Equipped with specialized knowledge and cutting-edge skills, our engineers are employed at top organizations in Michigan and across the U.S.. They tackle complex challenges, optimize processes and develop innovative solutions across a variety of fields, from cryogenics to manufacturing.

Top Employers

1. Michigan State University
2. GE Aerospace
3. Amazon
4. General Motors
5. AECOM
6. American Axle and Manufacturing
7. Arctrade
8. Auto-Owners Insurance Company
9. Black & Veatch
10. Boeing
11. Consolidated Trading LLC
12. Credit Karma
13. DLZ Corporation
14. Daimler Truck North America
15. Dassault Systems
16. Deloitte
17. Eaton Corporation
18. Flexport
19. Fluor Marine Propulsion
20. Ford Motor Company

---

2023 M.S. in Mechanical Engineering Graduate Students

Employed Full Time – 67%

Continuing Education – 22%

Seeking Employment – 5%

Employed Part Time – 2%

Military Service – 1%

Not Seeking – 1%

---

Watch an On-Demand Info Session

This information session features faculty and enrollment experts covering curriculum structure, career preparation, application tips and more. Watch now.

---

Admission Summary

---

It’s fast and easy to apply! Just follow a few simple steps.


Step 1: Complete the online application
• It only takes minutes – Start Your Application

Step 2: Submit documents:
• Official transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Academic and personal statements

Step 3: Application fee:
• $75 domestic, $75 international

Prepare to achieve your professional goals

Once you’ve been admitted, get ready to enroll in classes and transform your career.

Transfer Credits



Save money and accelerate your degree by transferring credits. It’s easy to get started — reach out to an enrollment specialist for step-by-step guidance.

Get Your Questions Answered



Need help? We’re here to simplify the application process. Get all the information you need in just one phone call. Call (517) 300-3722 to speak with an enrollment specialist.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the delivery format and program structure?

The MSU online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering takes place 100% online. Designed to accommodate working professionals, courses are primarily asynchronous, though some instructors offer optional live sessions on Zoom.

This degree requires 30 credit hours (typically 10 courses) to complete and offers eight specialization tracks:

• Advanced Manufacturing
• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Computational Modeling
• Controls
• Energy
• Mechanics, Dynamics & Manufacturing
• Thermal Fluids Science & Engineering

Through our advanced curriculum, students can explore in-demand topics such as manufacturing, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, robotics, autonomous vehicles and energy systems.

How long are courses in the program?
On average, courses for the online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program last 14 weeks.
What careers can you pursue with a master’s in mechanical engineering?
A master’s in mechanical engineering opens doors to leadership and specialized roles across multiple sectors:
• Project Engineer – Manages technical projects and teams
• Mechanical Engineer – Designs and analyzes mechanical systems
• Engineering Manager / Group Manager – Leads engineering teams within firms
• Sales Engineer – Technical support and solution pitching for engineering products
• Structural Engineer – Applies mechanical principles to structural analysis
• Robotics Engineer – Designs robotic and automation systems
Who is the online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program best suited for?
This program is designed for working professionals who want to deepen their expertise and advance into leadership or specialized technical roles. Whether you’re interested in robotics, energy systems or advanced manufacturing, our flexible online format allows you to earn your degree without pausing your career.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available. Graduate students can apply for federal aid by submitting the FAFSA. Learn more on the Financial Aid page.

For more information, visit our FAQ page.

Request Brochure

To learn more about Michigan State University’s online master’s programs in engineering and download a free brochure, fill out the fields below to request information. You can also call us at (517) 300-3722.

Programs* [Select One] Master of Science in Civil Engineering Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Secure and Connected Cyber-Physical Systems - Graduate Certificate Semiconductor Manufacturing, Processing, and Devices - Graduate Certificate

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Phone*

Website

By checking this box, I authorize Michigan State University and its representatives to contact me via text messages. Participation is voluntary. Message and data rates may apply. Messages may be sent using an autodialer or other automated system for the selection or dialing of numbers. This consent is not required as a condition of enrollment. Reply STOP to opt out. Terms.

By checking this box, I consent to receiving autodialed informational and marketing calls, including those using prerecorded, artificial, or interactive voice technology, from Michigan State University and its representatives. This consent is not required as a condition of enrollment. Terms.

Michigan State University has engaged AllCampus to help support your educational journey. AllCampus will contact you shortly in response to your request for information. About AllCampus. Privacy Policy. You may opt out of receiving communications at any time.

* All Fields are Required. Your Privacy is Protected. Are you enrolling from outside the US? Click here.