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Mechanical engineering is a broad discipline that combines various subjects, including math, physics, and business, to advance many different technological developments. One of the oldest engineering fields, it has contributed to inventions that have revolutionized human existence, such as air travel, the printing press, and the internal combustion engine.

Modern-day mechanical engineers work on innovations both big and small in a range of industries. If you aspire to work on cutting-edge developments in biotechnics, renewable energy, robotics, or electric cars — to name a few areas — a master's in mechanical engineering can be an excellent choice. Continue reading to learn more about master's degrees in mechanical engineering, costs, courses, and how to choose a program.

Our list of the best online engineering degrees provides more information about programs in this field.

Yes, including all of the options for mechanical engineering master's degrees online listed above. Graduate students have driven the shift to online study, and the numbers confirm that a 100% online master's is now a mainstream path. 

According to from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, 56% of postbaccalaureate students were enrolled in at least one distance education course in fall 2021, and 1.3 million graduate students took distance education courses exclusively. (These figures come from NCES, the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics, drawing on IPEDS fall enrollment data from thousands of degree-granting institutions.) 

For you, that means enrolling in an online mechanical engineering master's puts you in the company of well over a million graduate students learning this way, not a small experimental group. 

Applicants to online master's degrees in mechanical engineering typically need a or a related field of study, and some programs also require a year or more of professional engineering experience. Students complete about 10 to 15 courses over a span of one to three years. Though many programs are fully online, some may require students to complete in-person labs or a practicum.

Upper-level math courses are common requirements in master of science in mechanical engineering programs. Courses in partial differential equations and complex variables, for instance, give engineers a more developed mathematical arsenal with which to approach engineering problems. Aside from math, online students can expect to take core classes and electives in various technical areas.

• Advanced Structural Analysis: This computer-focused course teaches students how to create 2D and 3D models of various structures such as bridges, skyscrapers, and beams. It introduces the software used to create models while also covering the physical principles that ensure structural integrity.
• Introduction to Systems Engineering: As a distinct sub-discipline, systems engineering explores the knowledge and methods used to create a defined, well-functioning collection of rules. Systems engineering may be applied to biological, mechanical, and computing functions. Students may also gain an understanding of how to test systems for efficiency and commercial success.
• Numerical Methods: In numerical methods, students seek to learn the mathematical and computational principles applied in engineering solutions. This course places a heavy emphasis on understanding concepts like algorithms, equations, and differentiation, as well as how to apply them to real-world problems.

Because many of these online mechanical engineering graduate degrees are aimed at current engineering professionals, they are flexible in their curricula. Specifically, students can choose between either a thesis or a non-thesis track. While the former involves conducting original research, the latter tends to include additional coursework in specific areas. 

For example, students could focus their courses in materials science, manufacturing, or biomechanical engineering. A student specializing in manufacturing might take courses in machine design and design for manufacturability.

At the master's level, mechanical engineering students typically have the chance to complete a specialized degree program or concentrate coursework in a particular sub-discipline. Given its expansive nature as a field, options to specialize or concentrate vary by program and institution. Below are a few common paths for both specialized degree types and concentrations.

• Biomedical Engineering: Biomedical engineering deals with advancements in human health. This area may cover the design and manufacture of medicines and medical equipment and may also explore how to construct systems that increase the efficiency of healthcare delivery. Many biomedical engineering degrees or concentrations combine practices in biology, mechanical engineering, and clinical practice.
• Materials Science & Engineering: This sub-discipline focuses on the chemical and physical properties of different materials, including concrete, various metals, and different liquids. Students learn how to manipulate these materials to solve engineering problems in a range of industries. In some cases, they may also study how to fashion new types of chemical compounds designed to meet specific real-world needs.
• Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Robotics and autonomous systems are becoming increasingly important in areas like self-driving cars, healthcare, and manufacturing. This sub-discipline of mechanical engineering draws heavily on systems design and computer science, with students learning about multiple robotics applications and how to design specialized equipment.

Mechanical engineers are employed in some of the economy's most innovative industries and are likely to stay in demand in future years. This is because their work is critical when it comes to driving technological advancements related to how human beings live, work, and interact with each other. 

Below are a few common career paths for graduates with a mechanical engineering graduate degree. While it's possible to land the following jobs with a bachelor's, a master's can increase your chances of securing employment.

• design and build important technologies such as airplanes, drones, and satellites. Depending on their education, they may work on specific components, such as jet engines and navigation systems, or develop and test entire products for safety and usability. Their work is often used in commercial and government sectors, including the defense department.
• and biochemical engineers are typically employed in the health services sector, where they work on technologies that improve human health. Their roles can be quite varied, from designing computer equipment to constructing tools like X-ray machines or prosthetic body parts. These professionals may also conduct research and present their findings to scientists and physicians.
• Electrical and are trained to build electrical systems that are used in a wide variety of applications. Some of the products they work on include smartphones, entertainment equipment, and video game consoles, though their work is essential to nearly any device that runs on electricity. Given this, electronics engineers are employed in many different sectors, including government and business.

The career outlook for mechanical engineers is stronger than it has been in years, with growth running well ahead of the economy-wide average. In fact, according to the , employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 11% from 2025 to 2035, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations, with about 17,800 openings projected each year over the decade. 

The BLS base year counts 298,500 mechanical engineering jobs nationwide, and the median annual wage reached $104,110 in May 2025. So, a degree in this field could lead to advanced technical preparation that could land you in an occupation where demand, openings, and pay are all moving in the right direction. 

Choosing the right master's in mechanical engineering degree can set you up for success in your future career. However, with many options available, you may wonder which program is right for you. Below is a list of important factors to consider when selecting your engineering degree.

• Accreditation  — Accreditation ensures that you're enrolled in a program that meets national standards for academic excellence. An accredited degree is also a requirement when it comes to landing a job in this field. At the master's level, you should be sure to choose a program that has been accredited by the .
• Affordability — Choosing a program that is affordable based on your unique financial circumstances is essential and can affect your ability to complete your education. Consider applying for financial aid if you aspire to complete a master's in engineering.
• Concentration — As mentioned before, mechanical engineering includes various specialized degrees and concentration options. Examine your career goals when deciding whether you want to pursue a degree program that focuses on a particular sub-field or one that allows you to concentrate coursework in a specific area. While the former may open up job opportunities in specialized areas, such as civil engineering, the latter can typically give you access to a wider range of employment opportunities.
• Learning Formats — For students who work, have a busy schedule, or need to meet familial obligations, an online program can help meet both personal and academic goals. Remember, some degrees may utilize a hybrid learning model, while others can be fully in-person. It's important to assess your learning style and personal situation when selecting a program.