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MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA – A Course Guide for International Students

MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

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.

UniversityQS World RankingsQS World University Rankings For Mechanical Engineering
Stanford University32
University of Michigan2511
Purdue University12917
University of Illinois8524
Cornell University2045
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)11
The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)66
Georgia Institute of Technology1414
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)1715
Northwestern University3335

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.

UniversityIELTSTOEFL
Stanford University7.0100
University of Michigan7.0106
Purdue UniversityNA88
University of Illinois6.579 – 102
Cornell University7.5100
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)7.090 – 100
The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)7.0100
Georgia Institute of Technology6.590
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)7.0 – 7.5100
Northwestern University7.595

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.

ExpenditureCost In USD
Application Fee90 – 180
IELTS Registration216
TOEFL Registration180
GRE193
Visa Application144

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.

UniversityAverage 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.

ItemEstimated 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.

ScholarshipAmount Offered
Scholarships for Engineers at MITUSD 21,000
The Fulbright ScholarshipsAid in the cost of tuition
The American Association of University WomenFellowships of up to USD 27,867
Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship50% amount is granted as an award. 50% is granted as a loan.
BrokerFish International Student ScholarshipFinancial aid for health insurance. 
Go Clean ScholarshipTuition fee waiver
Comindware ScholarshipTuition fee waiver
Knight Fellowship at Cornell UniversityUp to USD 60,000 assistance in tuition fees.
Quad FellowshipUSD 50,000
Inlaks Shivdasani FoundationUp 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 ProfilesAverage Annual Salary (USD)
Mechanical Design EngineerUSD 73,071
Project EngineerUSD 71,293
Mechanical Engineering ManagerUSD 1,15,468
Senior Mechanical EngineerUSD 1,01,539
Robotics EngineerUSD 87,132
Automation EngineerUSD 82,199
Mechanical InspectorUSD 77,653
Marine EngineerUSD 68,175
Nuclear engineerUSD 80,688
Mechanical design engineerUSD 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.

1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”

  1. 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

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MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA – A Course Guide for International Students

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