The best schools for mechanical engineering make your transition from student to professional seamless. These schools ensure both undergraduate students and graduate students build the in-demand skills they need to lead a wide range of technological innovations. If you’re ready to launch or grow your mechanical engineering career, let’s help you find your ideal school fit.
This article offers a curated list of the best mechanical engineering schools. It guides prospective mechanical engineering students through a list of top academic programs and provides factors to consider when deciding on the best fit for you. You’ll also discover the career paths awaiting graduates from the best mechanical engineering universities.
Best Mechanical Engineering College and University Rankings: Top 10 Mechanical Engineering Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston University | MA | In-Person and Hybrid (Graduate) | #42 |
| Cornell University | NY | In-Person | #17 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | GA | In-Person and Online (MS) | #38 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | MA | In-Person | #2 |
| Northeastern University | MA | In-Person | #49 |
| Purdue University | IN | In-Person and Online (MS) | #49 |
| Rice University | TX | In-Person | #17 |
| Stanford University | CA | In-Person and Hybrid (MS) | #6 |
| University of Florida | FL | In-Person and Online (MS) | #28 |
| University of Michigan, Ann Arbor | MI | In-Person | #23 |
Mechanical Engineering School Rankings: Best Mechanical Engineering Colleges and Universities
The mechanical engineering program you attend has a significant impact on your career success. Your ideal school should offer you access to modern learning facilities, experienced instructors, and a market-led curriculum. Below are our top picks for the best mechanical engineering schools for undergraduate and graduate academic programs.
Best Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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The Best Schools for Mechanical Engineering: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
If you’ve yet to earn your college degree and you’re wondering what academic program options are accessible to prospective mechanical engineers, the section below explores various types of degrees and certificates you can earn in the field.
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Comparing Popular Degree Options
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Best Mechanical Engineering Schools: Other Mechanical Engineering University Rankings
The list below highlights the best mechanical engineering schools for students seeking alternative ways to earn their mechanical engineering degree. We designed the mechanical engineering university rankings to emphasize the unique program offerings at each selected school.
Best Online Mechanical Engineering Schools
- Old Dominion University. Old Dominion University is a public research institution in Norfolk, Virginia. It’s known for its efforts in the online learning space. There are over 100 online undergraduate and graduate programs available to students, including a BS completion program in mechanical engineering technology, and an MS in mechanical engineering. It’s also easy to transfer credits to its programs.
- University of Alabama. University of Alabama ensures students can achieve their goals of working in research and development in a wide range of industries through its primarily online mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree and fully online master’s and PhD degrees. Online students have access to lower tuition costs, scholarships, and financial aid.
- University of North Dakota (UND). UND offers mechanical engineering bachelor’s degrees, combined ME BS/MS/MEng degrees, and Master’s Degrees in Mechanical Engineering entirely remotely. Besides a flexible and self-paced curriculum, UND Online offers affordable tuition rates, online tutoring services, tech support, writing aid, and career advice to enrolled students.
Best Community Colleges for Mechanical Engineering
- Columbia State Community College. This school’s Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering is a transfer pathway program that allows you to transfer your college credits to a public or private school in Tennessee. This program requires the completion of 67 credits in four semesters, over a two-year period.
- Glendale Community College. The Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering is a 37-credit program that prepares students for transfer to a four-year college. Students complete foundational courses in engineering graphics, engineering design, dynamics, programming, and material science and engineering.
- Midlands Technical College. This mechanical engineering associate degree is a transfer-oriented program that equips students with the fundamental knowledge of mechanical engineering systems. The program requires 77 credits completed in five semesters. Courses cover two years of a typical bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Mechanical Engineering
- Georgia Institute of Technology. The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is a 129-credit program that can be completed over four years. This degree offers alternative concentrations in areas such as automotive, design, manufacturing, and micro/nano-engineering. Students can also take part in research, international study, or cooperative programs.
- Purdue University. The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is a 129-credit program that enables students to build engineering foundational skills, professional skills, and emerging skills for innovative leadership. Aside from adequate scholarship awards, Purdue University offers affordable tuition rates, honors programs, and study abroad programs to enrolled students.
- University of California, Berkeley. Although the University of California has a global image as a notable university due to its academic and research exploits, it is still an affordable university. This public research university offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The program comprises 120 to 130 credits that can be completed as a single, joint, major, or minor degree.
Best Graduate Schools for Mechanical Engineering
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). MIT offers nine graduate programs in the mechanical engineering department. You have the option of pursuing a single Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a combined degree with the Sloan School of Management. You can also pursue a professional degree or a Doctoral Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
- Stanford University. Stanford University is a leader in mechanical engineering graduate programs. Candidates are offered the opportunity to complete a focused mechanical engineering master’s degree or specialize in lucrative areas such as biomedical engineering and design impact, online or on campus.
- University of Michigan. Students can further their education in a research-oriented environment through its mechanical engineering graduate programs. The doctoral program offers students the opportunity to fund their degree and the master’s programs offer options for combined degree pathways, within and outside the department.
Best Mechanical Engineering Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- The University of Delaware | MBA + Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This degree pathway prepares students to take on managerial roles in the engineering industry right out of school. To enroll in this 67-credit program, your application has to first be accepted by the engineering department. However, it doesn’t include engineering research.
- University of Houston | Dual MS in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. The dual program in mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering is an opportunity for students to gain diverse knowledge in related fields within a shorter time frame. This 45-credit program can be completed through a thesis or a non-thesis track.
- University of Nebraska | Double Master’s in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Engineering. This dual degree allows you to complete a master’s program in mechanical engineering degree in the US and a master’s program in material science in France over two years. Each of the four semesters offers a minimum of 30 credits. It also offers an opportunity for students to engage in an internship abroad.
Best Schools With Accelerated Mechanical Engineering Programs
- Arizona State University | 4 + 1 Accelerated Program in Mechanical Engineering (BSE-ME). This thesis or non-thesis program allows distinguished undergraduate students to obtain their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. Candidates need to complete 12 graduate credits in their senior year before applying to the program or be in the process of completing 90 credits on a 3.5 GPA in this discipline.
- Stony Brook University | BE/MS Accelerated Program. This program allows undergraduate students to transfer graduate-level credits, taken in their undergraduate program, to an MS degree in mechanical engineering. This shortens the program time to one year. During the two semesters in the master’s program, students may complete 24 credits to fulfill their degree requirements.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison | Mechanical Engineering: Accelerated Program, MS The accelerated program can be completed in one academic year through the completion of 30 credits in three semesters. This program requires only coursework, and students may be assigned to faculty members for mentoring.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
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Is Graduate School for Mechanical Engineering Worth It?
Yes, graduate school for mechanical engineering is worth it. You’ll gain advanced knowledge in identifying, designing, and implementing engineering solutions to real-world problems. A graduate program in mechanical engineering offers more opportunities for students to collaborate on research and development projects with industry partners.
While some argue that this degree isn’t necessary to secure a job in the engineering field, it does lead to a substantial increase in your earning potential and more career options. You can also specialize in top fields like robotics, automotive engineering design, and biomedical engineering, which was listed among master’s degrees with the best job prospects in the US by Statista.
What Jobs Can You Do With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?
The jobs you can do with a mechanical engineering degree include mechanical engineer, automotive engineer, manufacturing engineer, biomedical engineer, materials engineer, marine engineer, and robotics engineer.
The career opportunities available to you depend on your degree emphasis. Most schools offer research programs and academic specializations in a variety of fields to enable students to build expertise and expand their career options. The best schools for mechanical engineering also offer internships, cooperative programs, and job placement services to students.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
You can earn between $70,000 and $110,000 a year with a degree in mechanical engineering. This will depend on the level of degree, your geographical location, your organizational affiliations, professional experience, and your employer.
According to PayScale, you can earn an average of $70,000 with an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. If you have a mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree, you could earn an average annual salary of $82,000. A Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering can afford you an average salary of $87,000, while a doctorate degree can earn you an average of $110,000 per year.
Highest-Paying Mechanical Engineering Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Manager | Bachelor’s Degree | $152,350 |
| Aerospace Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $122,270 |
| Sales Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $103,710 |
| Materials Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $98,300 |
| Biomedical Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $97,410 |
| Industrial Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $95,300 |
| Mechanical Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $95,300 |
| Marine Engineer | Bachelor’s Degree | $93,370 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technologist | Associate Degree | $60,460 |
| Drafter | Associate Degree | $60,290 |
Best Jobs With a Mechanical Engineering Degree
The best jobs with a mechanical engineering degree are jobs that allow you to identify problems, and design and apply innovative solutions to them. The jobs available to you depend on your mechanical engineering degree level. Below are jobs you can access with the different academic degrees in this field.
How Can I Pay for Mechanical Engineering School?
You can pay for mechanical engineering school by applying for scholarships, government grants, or private loans. Below are some of the best ways to fund your mechanical engineering degree, regardless of your degree level.
- Scholarships. A scholarship is a financial award given to students who meet predefined criteria and are usually based on academic performance, financial need, or minority affiliations. Schools, prominent individuals, and corporations usually offer scholarships between $500 and $50,000 that can help you cover your education.
- Grants. The US government, nonprofit organizations, and colleges usually offer tuition grants to students enrolled in academic and career programs. These grants do not have to be repaid by the student as long as the student adheres to the funding agreements. In most cases, grants are offered to students who have financial needs or are embarking on research projects.
- Student loans. Student loans are repayable funds made available to college students to pay for their tuition and other college fees. Private individuals, financial institutions, and the government usually offer student loans to students at fixed interest rates. Some of the popular private loan providers with good interest rates include Sallie Mae, Ascent, Earnest, and College Ave.
- Work-study. If none of the other options appeal to you, you can work and study. Depending on your program level, you can apply for research assistantships in your department. You can also enroll in an online or part-time program so you can work outside of school.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
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Choosing the Best Mechanical Engineering School for You
To choose the best mechanical engineering school for you, consider your tuition funding options, your preferred learning format, whether it is an ABET-accredited program, and your ability to build a social life there. We have listed other factors to review below.
Opportunities for Continuing Education
Before deciding on a program, review the mechanical engineering programs offered. If you’re hoping to build advanced knowledge, ensure the school offers graduate degree programs in addition to an undergraduate program. If not, ensure you can transfer your credits to a college with a relevant mechanical engineering program and a good academic reputation.
Your ideal program should also offer opportunities to speed up your study or broaden your expertise through accelerated degree programs and dual majors. Be sure to review the credits of study and semester schedule when deciding what schools to apply to.
Career Goals
Your career goals should factor into your college decision. Aside from knowing you want to study mechanical engineering, you should also consider the program’s specialization pathways. Weigh the curriculum against market demands and your career interests. You’ll find information about the school’s employment outcomes and the internship or research opportunities available to students on the program’s page.
Student Services
Availability of adequate student services can boost your learning experience and ensure a well-rounded campus life. Ensure that your program has an active tutoring center or that you’ll be assigned a dedicated coach as soon as you’re enrolled in the program. If you’re a busy professional, ensure the program schedule is flexible or self-paced.
You should always consider the size of its student body and ease of access to faculty and instructors. You can check the school’s website for news on financial aid, learning facilities and centers, and disability services.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
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Does It Matter What College I Go to for Mechanical Engineering?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for mechanical engineering. Mechanical engineering is a very competitive discipline that requires expert instruction and guidance. Enrolling in top-ranking schools allows you to take advantage of an experienced faculty, research opportunities, student services, and career centers.
These nationally high-ranking schools have international exposure and elite industry partnerships that can boost their professional leverage. Most employers prioritize students from these schools, thus increasing your chances of securing employment after graduation.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Mechanical Engineering University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Mechanical Engineering
We ranked the best mechanical engineering schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our mechanical engineering university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of mechanical engineering degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Mechanical Engineering
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Best Mechanical Engineering Schools FAQ
Yes, there is a demand for mechanical engineers in the United States. Mechanical engineers lead most of the technological and engineering innovations humans enjoy. These professionals can apply their skills to a wide range of career paths, including careers in finance, agriculture, space engineering, and healthcare.
Yes, mechanical engineers are happy with their careers. Aside from a high salary average, mechanical engineers receive bonuses, commissions, and health benefits as compensation from their employers. They also have opportunities for growth and career exploration. If you choose to pursue this degree, you’ll work on both engaging and rewarding projects.
No, it is not hard to get a mechanical engineering job. It is true that the mechanical engineering job market is very competitive, but the demand for qualified mechanical engineers has yet to dwindle. As a graduate of an ABET-accredited program and school, you can secure jobs with top-paying companies, governments, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions.
No, mechanical engineering is not the most difficult discipline. While most people may consider mechanical engineering a challenging discipline, it is not an impossible one. Students with adequate critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills may find this discipline to be both engaging and rewarding. Regardless, most schools offer tutoring services to enrolled students to boost their learning experience.
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