Online Master's in Mechanical Engineering
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2026-05-11 | - |
| 2027-05-11 | - |
Program Overview
Online M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
The online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program at Michigan State University combines the flexibility of online learning with the resources afforded by an R1 research institution, including industry connections and expert mentorship from leading faculty. This program allows students to build the engineering skills to tackle complex projects, leverage new technologies, and innovate in multidisciplinary fields ranging from biomechanics to manufacturing.
Program Overview
The online Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program leverages Michigan State University's extensive mechanical engineering research as well as its 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.
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
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
Program Details
- 100% Online: Program Format
- 8 Focus Areas: Optional
- 10 Total Courses: 30 credits
- Top 29: Public university
- Tuition Cost: $29,850
Upcoming Start Information
- Start Date: May 11, 2026
- App Deadline: April 11, 2026
- Time to Completion: Flexible, students can complete this program in 1-2 years
Career Outlook for the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
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).
Top Employers
- Michigan State University
- GE Aerospace
- Amazon
- General Motors
- AECOM
- American Axle and Manufacturing
- Arctrade
- Auto-Owners Insurance Company
- Black & Veatch
- Boeing
- Consolidated Trading LLC
- Credit Karma
- DLZ Corporation
- Daimler Truck North America
- Dassault Systems
- Deloitte
- Eaton Corporation
- Flexport
- Fluor Marine Propulsion
- 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%
Admission Summary
To apply, follow these steps:
- Complete the online application
- Submit documents:
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Academic and personal statements
- Application fee: $75 domestic, $75 international
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.
- 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, including Project Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Engineering Manager, Sales Engineer, Structural Engineer, and Robotics Engineer.
- 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.
- Is financial aid available?: Yes, financial aid is available. Graduate students can apply for federal aid by submitting the FAFSA.