Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering is an engineering specialisation designed for those interested in in-depth research. The program covers areas such as Operation Management, Robotics Systems, Metallurgy, Advanced Materials Science, Sustainable Manufacturing, and Engineering Business Management, incorporating computer knowledge. Pursuing an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and high-level degree. Our guide provides comprehensive insights into this academic journey. Keep reading to discover more!
Why Study Masters in Mechanical Engineering in The USA?
While a specific degree can modify your career a lot, several factors depend on the location. The United States is arguably the best country for MS in Mechanical Engineering due to the vast number of opportunities and flexible education system. Some of the top reasons why the US is recommended for international students are listed below.
- Universities in the US have a diverse curriculum and a flexible education system so students can gain an expansive knowledge and skill set necessary to advance their careers.
- Students aren’t required to write entrance exams like the GRE for admission to American Universities in this course.
- The US universities have top-notch infrastructure and the best facilities.
- Many scholarships, grants and other types of financial aid are available for students depending on their financial background and academic merit.
- Graduates of MS in Mechanical Engineering earn an average salary of USD 73,468 per year. Furthermore, these figures are set to increase further with the ever-evolving field since mechanical engineers are the third-highest paid in the US.
- There are plenty of job opportunities available in the US for Mechanical Engineers. By 2028, it is determined that the job growth rate will be around 4%. Additionally, the employment rate in this field is quite high comparatively.
- International students can experience unforgettable student life in the US. They have an all-inclusive, diverse culture, which makes migrating students more comfortable.
Top Universities in The USA for MS in Mechanical Engineering
The United States boasts numerous universities providing this degree. Yet, by selecting among the finest, you can secure superior facilities, a heightened standard of education, and increased career opportunities. Below, you’ll find our recommended list of top-notch universities in the USA for an MS in mechanical engineering.
| University | QS World Rankings | QS World University Rankings For Mechanical Engineering |
| Stanford University | 3 | 2 |
| University of Michigan | 25 | 11 |
| Purdue University | 129 | 17 |
| University of Illinois | 85 | 24 |
| Cornell University | 20 | 45 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1 | 1 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 6 | 6 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 14 | 14 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 17 | 15 |
| Northwestern University | 33 | 35 |
Specialisations in Ms Courses for Mechanical Engineering in The USA
The duration of an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA varies among universities, ranging from as short as 10 months to extended programs lasting up to 5 years. Despite this variability, certain modules are universally required for all engineering degrees.
- Basics of engineering
- Engineering Mathematics
- Electrical and electronic systems
- Mechanics, structures and materials
- Thermodynamics
- System modelling
In addition, universities usually allow students to choose their specialisations in the second or third year of their degree. This enables you to gain specific knowledge and skill sets in your chosen field, enhancing your portfolio. Consider the options listed below:
- Biomechanical Engineering
- Design & Control
- Dynamics
- Science and Technology of Energy
- Fluids
- Manufacturing
- Mechanics & Applications
- Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS)
- Nanoengineering
- Ocean Engineering
- Transportation Systems
Eligibility Criteria & Admission Requirements
Every institute establishes specific admission requirements and a screening process based on factors such as course types, acceptance rates, and seat availability. Nevertheless, certain criteria consistently apply; particularly for international students. Therefore, confirming your eligibility before applying is essential, as it will save you time and streamline the process.
- A 4-year bachelor’s degree in relevant subjects like engineering or mathematics with a minimum GPA of 3.2.
- Official academic transcripts of all previous degrees.
- Scores of English language proficiency tests.
– IELTS – 6.5
– TOEFL – 80+ - Scores of entrance exams (if applicable)
- Letter of recommendation (recommended – 3)
- Statement of purpose
- CV/Resume
- Details of work experience (if applicable)
- Financial documents
One of the most crucial aspects is the scores for English proficiency tests since they are mandatory for all international students applying for an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA. The minimum required scores in English tests in some of the top colleges are as follows.
| University | IELTS | TOEFL |
| Stanford University | 7.0 | 100 |
| University of Michigan | 7.0 | 106 |
| Purdue University | NA | 88 |
| University of Illinois | 6.5 | 79 – 102 |
| Cornell University | 7.5 | 100 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 7.0 | 90 – 100 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 7.0 | 100 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 6.5 | 90 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 7.0 – 7.5 | 100 |
| Northwestern University | 7.5 | 95 |
How to Apply?
Similar to the admission requirements, every university has a different application process and screening criteria. However, you can consider the following steps when exploring how to apply for an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA.
- Explore the different courses and universities available in the United States to find which ones align with your personal and professional preferences.
- Verify the eligibility criteria and admission requirements of the shortlisted institutes.
- Compile the necessary documents as soon as possible so you can start applying. It is advisable to complete this step since it will allow you and the university’s Admission Team to tackle any discrepancies or queries that may arise.
- The universities typically have their own admission portal through which aspirants can apply. You may be required to pay a nominal application fee.
- The institute may call applicants in for an interview or any other screening process, depending on its criteria.
- Once you receive the offer letter, complete all the formalities to secure your seat.
Cost of Studying
The cost of studying any degree can be divided into three major components – pre-arrival costs, cost of tuition and cost of living. Each of these is elaborated in individual sections below.
1. Pre-Arrival Costs
Pre-arrival costs are usually one-time expenses, like the application fee, visa costs, and expenses for entrance exams. Check out these expenditures in the table below.
| Expenditure | Cost In USD |
| Application Fee | 90 – 180 |
| IELTS Registration | 216 |
| TOEFL Registration | 180 |
| GRE | 193 |
| Visa Application | 144 |
2. Cost of Tuition
For an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA fees, you can expect the costs to change depending on the facilities, infrastructure and opportunities offered by the university. The average cost of tuition ranges from USD 25,000 to USD 55,000.
The annual fees for top mechanical engineering master’s programs in the USA’s leading universities are outlined below. Additionally, explore the living expenses in these areas. Keep in mind that the mentioned fees pertain to the university’s most sought-after courses.
| University | Average Annual Tuition (USD) | Annual Cost Of Living (USD) |
| Stanford University | $69,674 | $20,586 |
| University of Michigan | $51,972 | $8,960 |
| Purdue University | $42,300 | $7,374 |
| University of Illinois | $29,628 | $24,898 |
| Cornell University | $29,550 | $6,975 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | $1,09,664 | $9,320 |
| The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | $26,544 | $10,248 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology | $18,000 | $17,888 |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | $1,21,866 | $9,805 |
| Northwestern University | $54,559 | $7,808 |
3. Cost of Living
The cost of living mentioned in the above table is for the cities where the respective university is situated. For other locations, you can refer to the living costs in the United States.
The average annual cost of living in the USA is $18,048. A component-wise breakdown of all expenditures is given in the table below.
| Item | Estimated cost per month |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | $525 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | $871 |
| Food | $572 |
| Transportation | $70 |
| Utilities | $180 |
| Entertainment | $48 |
| Groceries | $52 |
| Clothes | $102 |
| Total Cost Of Living With Off-Campus Accommodation | $1,504 |
| Total Cost Of Living With On-Campus Accommodation | $1,850 |
| Annual Cost Of Living | $18,048 |
Scholarships
The cost of studying is often too high for international students to bear every year. Students can opt for loans to help incur the costs. Other than that, universities offer scholarships, grants and bursaries to aid students.
Applicants can acquire these based on their financial background, academic merit, and past records. Some of the top scholarships for engineering aspirants in the US are as follows.
| Scholarship | Amount Offered |
| Scholarships for Engineers at MIT | USD 21,000 |
| The Fulbright Scholarships | Aid in the cost of tuition |
| The American Association of University Women | Fellowships of up to USD 27,867 |
| Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship | 50% amount is granted as an award. 50% is granted as a loan. |
| BrokerFish International Student Scholarship | Financial aid for health insurance. |
| Go Clean Scholarship | Tuition fee waiver |
| Comindware Scholarship | Tuition fee waiver |
| Knight Fellowship at Cornell University | Up to USD 60,000 assistance in tuition fees. |
| Quad Fellowship | USD 50,000 |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Up to USD 1,00,000 |
Career Scope
Graduates of MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA earn an average salary of USD 73,468 per year. According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, around 20,200 job openings for Mechanical Engineering graduates are available every year.
The US has great opportunities for international students to advance their careers in this field and specialisations. Consider some of the most popular job profiles and their average salaries, as mentioned in the table below.
| Job Profiles | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
| Mechanical Design Engineer | USD 73,071 |
| Project Engineer | USD 71,293 |
| Mechanical Engineering Manager | USD 1,15,468 |
| Senior Mechanical Engineer | USD 1,01,539 |
| Robotics Engineer | USD 87,132 |
| Automation Engineer | USD 82,199 |
| Mechanical Inspector | USD 77,653 |
| Marine Engineer | USD 68,175 |
| Nuclear engineer | USD 80,688 |
| Mechanical design engineer | USD 76,903 |
FAQs
Q1. Which are the best universities in the USA for MS in mechanical engineering?
Ans: Stanford University, University of Michigan, Purdue University, University of Illinois, Cornell University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the University of California, Berkeley (UCB) are some of the top universities in the US for MS in mechanical engineering.
Q2. Are there scholarships or financial aid options available for international students studying?
Ans: Several undergraduate engineering scholarships are available for international students through universities, the US government, the Indian government and NGOs as well.
Q3. Can you do an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA without GRE?
Ans: Students can pursue an MS in mechanical engineering in the USA without GRE since it is not mandatory in several universities.
Q4. What is the future scope of mechanical engineering in the USA?
Ans: The US has great opportunities for international students to advance their careers in this field and specialisations. Graduates of MS in Mechanical Engineering earn an average salary of USD 73,468 per year. Mechanical Design Engineer, Project Engineer, Mechanical Engineering Manager, Senior Mechanical Engineer, Robotics engineer, and Automation engineer are some of the most popular job profiles for graduates of MS in Mechanical Engineering.
Q5. What are the admission requirements for international students pursuing an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA?
Ans: The MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA requirements include a 4-year bachelor’s degree in relevant subjects like engineering or mathematics with a minimum GPA of 3.2, the official academic transcripts of all previous degrees, scores of English language proficiency tests, scores of entrance exams, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, CV/Resume, details of work experience, and financial documents.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further