What Degree Do You Need to be A Mechanical Engineer?
Key Takeaways:
- A Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from an ABET-accredited program is the most direct path into the field and is the baseline for earning a PE license.
- Becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) requires an ABET-accredited degree, a passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, four years of supervised experience, and a passing score on the PE exam.
- An associate degree can get you into entry-level roles like technician or CAD operator, while a master's or PhD opens doors for specialization, research, and advanced leadership positions.
- Mechanical engineers earned a median wage of $104,110 in May 2025, and employment is projected to grow 11% through 2035, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations, per the BLS.
- Verified student reviews across more than 150 mechanical engineering programs most often cite flexible formats, accessible faculty, and hands-on career preparation as strengths, while inconsistent advising is the most common complaint.
If you love building, designing, or figuring out how things work, mechanical engineering might be the perfect path for you. But passion alone won鈥檛 get you there鈥攜ou'll need the right education to turn that interest into a career. So, what kind of degree does it take?
Mechanical engineering spans everything from aerospace to renewable energy, making it one of the most versatile fields in STEM. A bachelor鈥檚 degree is the most common entry point, but it鈥檚 not the only way in.
Whether you鈥檙e considering an associate degree in mechanical engineering, a master鈥檚, or even a PhD, let鈥檚 explore your options so you can map out a path that fits your goals.
ADVERISEMENT
Online Mechanical Engineering Bachelor's Degrees You May Be Interested In
What is Mechanical Engineering?
Mechanical engineers use physics, math, and material science to create and improve mechanical systems. From the development of jet engines to prosthetic limbs, mechanical engineers play a big role in how modern technology looks and works.
Mechanical engineers work across diverse industries, including:
- Automotive: Designing more efficient vehicles and electric car tech.
- Aerospace: Building parts for airplanes, spacecraft, and defense systems.
- Robotics: Creating robotic systems for manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration.
- Energy: Developing renewable energy solutions like wind turbines and solar panels.
- Manufacturing: Making production lines more automated and efficient.
Mechanical engineers create solutions that improve everyday life and typically get paid well for their expertise. If this sounds like a career you'd like to get into, you'll need the right education.
Educational Pathways for Aspiring Mechanical Engineers
The journey to becoming a mechanical engineer can take different forms, depending on your career goals. If you're still in high school, focusing on STEM courses and getting involved in clubs or internships can provide valuable experience and help you decide if engineering is the right fit.
Once you've graduated high school, there are a few ways to enter the field. Finding the right mechanical engineering degree plan will get you pointed toward the best path for your future.
Associate Degree: A Stepping Stone
Earning an associate degree in mechanical engineering technology (MET) takes about two years and covers fundamental engineering principles. While a mechanical engineering associate degree won鈥檛 qualify you for a professional engineering license, it can open doors to an entry-level role like a mechanical technician or CAD operator.
This path can also be a stepping stone if you plan to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree later. Many students start with an associate degree, gain hands-on experience in the field, and then transfer their credits to continue their education and advance their careers. If you're already in the workforce and considering this as an option for a career switch, an online mechanical engineering technology degree might be a good place to start.
Bachelor鈥檚 Degree: The Standard Path
A Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) is the most common route to becoming a mechanical engineer. Accredited by , these programs provide the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed for the field.
In a BSME program, you can expect:
- Core Courses: Thermodynamics, statics, fluid mechanics, CAD design, and materials science.
- Lab Work: Hands-on projects in mechanical design, prototyping, and testing.
- Internships: Industry experience that bridges the gap between coursework and real-world engineering.
Master鈥檚 Degree: Specializing and Advancing
A master鈥檚 degree in mechanical engineering can be useful if you want to specialize in areas like robotics or biomechanics. A master鈥檚 can also open doors to leadership roles, research opportunities, and cutting-edge innovation. For example, an engineer in the automotive industry might pursue a master鈥檚 in robotics to transition into AI-driven vehicle automation.
Doctoral Degree: For Research and Academia
A PhD in mechanical engineering is ideal if you鈥檙e interested in advanced research, academia, or leading major engineering projects. This degree focuses on deep technical expertise in specialized fields.
Many PhD candidates work on projects like developing new 3D printing technology for aerospace components. This type of research can lead to roles in academia or organizations like NASA.
Licensing and Certifications
Earning professional licenses and certifications strengthens your credentials and can be required for certain roles. While some are specific to mechanical engineering, others apply across multiple fields.
Professional Engineer (PE) License
If you want to take on leadership roles or work as a consultant, obtaining a is essential. To do so, you'll need to earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program, pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gain four years of experience under a licensed PE, and pass the PE exam to demonstrate technical competency. This license is especially valuable if you want to manage large projects or work in regulated industries.
Industry-Relevant Certifications
If you really want to stand out in a competitive job market and even open doors beyond mechanical engineering, some widely recognized certifications include:
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (): Ideal for those in industrial engineering and advanced manufacturing, recognized by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).
Certified SolidWorks Professional (): A credential for engineers skilled in CAD software, valuable in product design and mechanical drafting.
Certified Energy Manager (): Offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) and beneficial for engineers working in sustainable energy and efficiency optimization.
If you want to advance in mechanical engineering or branch into new fields, these credentials will show your knowledge and increase your earning potential.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
A degree in mechanical engineering will give you a career with strong job growth and solid earning potential. Here鈥檚 what you can expect when it comes to job opportunities and salary.
Employment Growth and Industry Demand
Mechanical engineering is evolving, and so are the job opportunities. According to the , employment for mechanical engineers is projected to grow 11% from 2025 to 2035 鈥攎uch faster than the average 3% for all occupations. About 17,800 openings are projected each year, largely from workers transferring or retiring.
Salary Expectations
The median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $104,110 in May 2025, with the lowest 10% earning less than $73,990 and the highest 10% earning more than $164,340.
Key Factors Influencing Earnings
In addition to industry, several other factors can affect a mechanical engineer鈥檚 earning potential, including:
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Location: Working in a metropolitan area or region with a high concentration of tech and aerospace companies (e.g., Silicon Valley, Seattle, Houston) will tend to earn you higher wages.
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Education Level: Having a master鈥檚 or PhD degrees will offer access to higher-paying research, development, or management positions.
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Certifications and Licensure: Earning a PE license or industry certifications can increase your salary and job opportunities.
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Experience and Specialization: Expertise in automation and AI-driven design tends to be in high demand and can command higher salaries.
Additional Skills and Emerging Trends
Succeeding as a mechanical engineer takes more than technical know-how. To stay competitive, you鈥檒l need a mix of critical thinking and communication skills鈥攁long with a willingness to keep up with industry trends.
Soft Skills for Mechanical Engineers
Technical knowledge is essential for mechanical engineers, but success in the field also relies on problem-solving and teamwork. Engineers regularly work with professionals across different disciplines, from designers to executives, making it crucial to clearly explain ideas and collaborate effectively.
As your career progresses, leadership and project management become increasingly important. Whether overseeing a team or presenting solutions to stakeholders, strong interpersonal skills help you navigate challenges and drive projects forward.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Staying relevant in mechanical engineering requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation. Attending workshops and conferences, such as those hosted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (), can expand your network and keep you informed about new developments.
Online courses and certifications also offer valuable training in areas like AI and renewable energy. Joining can provide additional opportunities to connect with experts, access new research, and discover career advancements.
Choosing the Right Mechanical Engineering Program
Finding the best mechanical engineering program for you isn鈥檛 just about rankings鈥攊t鈥檚 about choosing a school that fits your goals and sets you up for success. As you explore your options, keep these key factors in mind.
Prioritize Accreditation
Make sure the program is ABET-accredited so your degree meets industry standards. This is especially important if you plan to pursue the PE license or certain certifications. Without accreditation, some career paths may be off-limits.
Match the Program to Your Interests
Mechanical engineering is a broad field. If you already have a specific interest, look for a program that offers courses, concentrations, or research opportunities in that area.
Seek Out Hands-On Learning
Engineers need real-world experience. Look for schools that provide access to high-tech labs, internships, and student organizations. Universities with strong industry ties can help you land internships and job opportunities.
Think About Location and Career Connections
Regardless if you attend in person or are considering an online degree in mechanical engineering, location matters. Schools near engineering hubs often have better access to partnerships and research projects. Check if the program offers networking events or connections to top employers.
What Students in Mechanical Engineering Programs Say
While rankings and school program pages tell you what a school offers on paper, verified student reviews can tell you what it's like to actually be enrolled. Across OnlineU's collection of reviews spanning more than 150 mechanical engineering programs, a few patterns show up consistently.
What students liked the most:
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Flexible formats: The most commonly mentioned strength, students consistently value being able to fit coursework around jobs, internships, or family responsibilities.
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Accessible faculty: Especially in upper-level and lab-based courses where it's most important, students appreciate courses that offer one-on-one time with professors.
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Hands-on, career-focused learning: Research labs, design teams, and internship pipelines are credited with getting reviewers job-ready before graduation.
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Rigorous but rewarding coursework: Reviewers describe demanding workloads as worth it, citing employer recognition and job placement as the payoff.
What students liked the least:
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Inconsistent advising: The most common complaint 鈥� some describe responsive guidance, while others report unresponsive or inaccurate advising that delayed progress.
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Cost: Expensive tuition and a high cost of attendance are also common complaints, especially among graduate-level and out-of-state reviewers.
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Uneven instructional quality: Many reviewers reported classes led by ineffective or hard-to-follow faculty, especially in large introductory courses.
The key takeaway here is that a school's overall reputation matters less than a specific program's advising structure, class sizes, and hands-on opportunities. Those details can vary quite a bit from program to program, and things like flexibility may matter more or less to you than to others. It's a good idea to ask current students or check student reviews for the details you find important before enrolling in a program.
Next Steps in Your Mechanical Engineering Career
Your path in mechanical engineering depends on what matters most to you 鈥� whether it鈥檚 flexibility, career growth, or diving into a specialized field. A bachelor鈥檚 degree from an ABET-accredited school is the most direct route to becoming an engineer, but if you鈥檙e looking for an alternative option, starting with an associate degree can give you a strong foundation.
Mechanical engineering has many career paths to explore, from developing prototypes to building wind turbines and beyond. No matter which route you take, staying ahead of emerging technologies and industry trends will set you up for long-term success.
Ready to find the best program for your goals? Check out our list of the Best Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees to compare top-ranked, flexible, and affordable options that fit your future.
Choosing a mechanical engineering degree involves many factors, from selecting the right education level to deciding if an online program suits your needs. Here are answers to common questions from prospective students.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Engineering Degrees
Can You Become a Mechanical Engineer Without a Bachelor's Degree?
An associate degree can lead to roles like mechanical technician or CAD designer, but most engineering jobs, as well as PE licensure, require a bachelor's degree. Many students start with an associate degree and transfer credits into a bachelor's program later.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Mechanical Engineering Degree?
Earning an associate degree in mechanical engineering can take as little as 1.5 years. Most bachelor's programs take 4 years, though some year-round formats can be completed in 2.5 years. Master's programs typically add 1鈥�2 years. Certifications vary by subject matter.
Is an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Worth It?
Online programs offer flexibility, especially for working professionals, and an ABET-accredited degree carries the same industry recognition regardless of whether you studied online or in-person. Because hands-on lab and internship experience matters in this field, hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person labs often provide the best balance.
How Hard Is a Mechanical Engineering Degree?
Mechanical engineering programs are demanding and require strong math, physics, and problem-solving skills. Coursework includes applied math, physics, computing, and chemistry. Students who enjoy hands-on troubleshooting and design work tend to find the difficulty worthwhile.
What Do Students Say About Mechanical Engineering Programs?
Verified student reviews of mechanical engineering programs most often point to flexible formats, accessible faculty, and hands-on career preparation as the biggest strengths. Inconsistent advising and cost are the most common concerns. Comparing verified reviews for specific programs, not just overall school reputation, is one of the most reliable ways to gauge a program's fit for your needs.