Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA: Top Universities & Courses

A masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA offers advanced knowledge and allows students to specialize in high-demand fields such as robotics, sustainable energy, and automotive design. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts 11% job growth for mechanical engineers from 2022 to 2032, indicating strong demand for skilled professionals in these sectors.

Graduates from top universities like MIT, Stanford, and Michigan typically start with an average salary of $83,821 (around INR 71.7L), with experienced professionals earning over $106,000 (about INR 90.7L). This blog will explore top programs and universities, assisting you in your plan to study in the US.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA: Overview

A Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA is a 1 to 2-year program designed to prepare graduates for high-tech roles in robotics, aerospace, clean energy, and automotive design. 

With options for a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Engineering (MEng), the program requires a relevant bachelor's degree, English proficiency test scores, and, in some cases, GRE scores.

The table below provides a comprehensive overview of a masters program in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Before exploring the details of universities and programs, you need to understand how studying for a masters in Mechanical Engineering can help your career goals.

Why Pursue a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for mechanical engineers will grow faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in about 19,800 job openings for mechanical engineers each year over the decade, making it a compelling reason for international students to pursue a study in the USA.

Here's why studying for a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA can be beneficial:

• High Demand for Skilled Engineers: The strong projected job growth is driven by innovation in fields like robotics, automation, and sustainable energy, creating a high demand for engineers with advanced skills.
• Competitive Salaries: In the U.S., a mechanical engineer with a masters degree can command a competitive salary, with mid-level professionals earning $99,510 (INR 85.2L) annually.
• Post-Study Work Opportunities: As a STEM-designated degree, a masters in Mechanical Engineering allows graduates to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, providing a total of up to 3 years of post-study work authorization.
• Access to Advanced Research: Top universities like MIT, Stanford, and Georgia Tech are at the forefront of engineering research, offering access to state-of-the-art labs focused on robotics, aerospace, and energy systems.
• Diverse Career Opportunities: A masters degree opens doors to specialized and senior roles across various industries, including automotive (Tesla, Ford), aerospace (Boeing, Lockheed Martin), and technology (Google, Apple).

After understanding the basics and the benefits of studying for a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, let's check out the top universities offering this program.

Top Universities For Studying a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

Understanding the best universities and colleges in the USA helps you make an informed decision about where to enroll for your masters in Mechanical Engineering course. For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is known for its focus on robotics and clean energy. 

It offers a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The program has an annual tuition fee of around $86,530 (approx. INR 74.11L). 

Below are the top universities offering a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

In addition to these top-ranked universities, other institutions offer reputable masters in Mechanical Engineering programs.

Popular Universities for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

If you're looking to pursue a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, several other popular universities offer excellent programs with varying specializations and tuition fees. 

For example, the University of Southern California (USC) offers a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering with an annual tuition fee of approximately $46,000 (approx. INR 38.4 L) and a duration of 1.5 to 2 years.

The table below lists some popular universities offering a masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA.

Before applying to one of the top masters in Mechanical Engineering programs in the USA, you need to check the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

To apply for a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, you will need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, with a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Most programs require proof of English proficiency through tests like the TOEFL or IELTS. 

While GRE scores are optional at many universities, they are recommended for top-tier programs such as Purdue University, to strengthen your application. 

You need to prepare supporting documents and meet U.S. F-1 visa requirements after admission. Here are the detailed eligibility criteria for a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Having explored the eligibility requirements, let's examine the process of applying for a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Application Process for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

The application process for top private and public US universities involves key steps like meeting admission requirements, submitting documents, and following deadlines. Acceptance rates at leading universities like MIT and Stanford are highly competitive, often falling below 10% for their graduate engineering programs.

Here are the steps involved in applying for a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering in the United States.

Step 1: Understand Admission Requirements

Confirm you meet each university's criteria, including GPA (typically 3.0+), English proficiency scores (TOEFL/IELTS), and note whether GRE scores are required or optional.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Gather your academic transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP), CV/resume, and arrange for your recommenders to submit their letters (LORs).

Step 3: Submit Applications

Complete the application form on the university's portal, upload your documents, and pay the application fee ($75 and $120 (INR 6K–INR 10K) before the submission deadline.

Step 4: Interview

Some highly competitive programs may invite shortlisted candidates for an online interview to discuss their application and academic interests further.

Step 5: Admission Decision

After the review period, universities will release their admission decisions. You will receive an official notification via the application portal or email.

Step 6: Visa Application

Once you accept an offer of admission, the university will issue an I-20 form, which is required to apply for your F-1 student visa. This process involves:

• SEVIS Fee: Paying the I-901 SEVIS fee ($350/INR 30K).
• Visa Interview: Scheduling and attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Documentation: Presenting required documents, including your I-20, passport, and proof of financial support.

Next, you'll discover the course details for your master's in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Course details for Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

In a masters program in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, you will gain in-depth knowledge of core subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and control systems. 

You can also choose from specialized electives in high-demand fields like robotics, aerospace engineering, and clean energy. Programs often include hands-on experience through research assistantships, internships, co-op programs, and capstone projects.

Below is the course structure for the masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Now, let's find out how much it costs to study for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Cost of Pursuing Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

The cost of studying in the USA is approximately $29,918 (INR 25.6 L). Additional expenses for accommodation, food, and other living costs can reach up to $61,325 (INR 52.6 L) per year.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in the USA for a masters in Mechanical Engineering.

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate. 

To manage these educational expenses, you can apply for internal and external scholarships in the U.S.

Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA: Scholarships for Students

To study a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, securing a scholarship can significantly reduce financial stress. For instance, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford University offers full funding for graduate students.

The tables below showcase internal and external scholarships for students to manage the cost of studying for a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships offered by U.S. universities can significantly reduce your tuition costs while providing additional financial support. Georgia Tech's Woodruff School Fellowships offer a monthly stipend and tuition for top mechanical engineering graduate applicants.

Here are some popular internal scholarships available to students pursuing a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering.

International students may also apply for external scholarships offered by government bodies or private foundations.

External Scholarships

External scholarships can significantly ease the financial burden of pursuing a masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA. For example, the Fulbright scholarship provides full coverage for tuition, living expenses, airfare, and health insurance, typically amounting to $ 30,000 (INR 25.6L) – $50,000 (INR 42.7L) per year.

Here are some of the most popular external scholarship options for Indian students.

Now, let’s focus on what type of job opportunities you will get after studying masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA

Job Opportunities After Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

After completing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, you will have access to a variety of high-paying job opportunities across diverse sectors. For instance, a Senior Mechanical Engineer earns approximately $120,851 (INR 96.2 L) annually.

The table below lists some of the top in-demand jobs in the USA after completing a Masters in Mechanical Engineering.

Source: Indeed, Glassdoor

Note: Salary figures are approximate and may vary based on location, experience, and company.

So, which companies will hire you with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA? Let's find out.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates After Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

Top recruiters in the aerospace, automotive, and technology sectors offer lucrative jobs in the USA for graduates with a masters in Mechanical Engineering. 

For example, Boeing hires Mechanical Engineers with an average annual salary of approximately $148,000 (INR 1.28 Cr), while Google offers its engineers around $166,000 (INR 1.03 Cr) annually.

In the table below, you'll find a detailed list of top recruiters, common job roles, and their corresponding salaries to help you explore potential career opportunities.

Source: Glassdoor, Indeed, ZipRecruiter.

Joining a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the USA requires careful planning and expert guidance. Let's understand how upGrad can assist you in this process.

How Can upGrad Help You Study Masters in Mechanical Engineering in USA?

Studying for a Masters in Mechanical Engineering in the United States opens up a world of exciting career prospects, but the admission process can be a bit complex. From selecting the right program to securing financial support and guiding the intricate application process, each step requires careful attention.

That's where upGrad can make all the difference. With customized support, you'll find the right program, discover ways to manage costs, and learn about career opportunities.

Ready for your Master's in Mechanical Engineering in the US?  Schedule a 1:1 session with upGrad experts to simplify your application process and get you on the fast track.