Mechanical engineers design, prototype, and build moving machines. Multiple industries that include automotive manufacturing, robotics, and cooling systems employ them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these professionals earned a $102,320 median annual salary in 2024. The BLS also projects that jobs for mechanical engineers will grow 9% between 2024 and 2034.
Professionals must possess a bachelor's degree to enter this diverse field. An online mechanical engineering degree provides the education engineers-in-training need to apply to entry-level positions and start the licensure process. Other benefits include honing transferable problem-solving, mathematics, and interpersonal skills.
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Best Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees
Why Get a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
The best mechanical engineering schools' and their online programs will prepare students to enter a growing field with numerous career opportunities. Other benefits include qualifying for a state-issued professional engineering license. Additional licensure requirements involve obtaining at least four years of professional experience and passing an examination.
A mechanical engineering degree online program may use an asynchronous curriculum. Asynchronous programs allow students to view recorded lectures and contribute to discussion boards at convenient times. This academic flexibility allows many degree-seekers to continue working while earning a degree. Other online learning benefits may include specialized support services and the ability to attend a top U.S. school without relocating.
Courses in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering degrees emphasize the knowledge and skills necessary to develop moving devices and systems. Coursework prepares students to apply mechanical engineering fundamentals when navigating real-life problems. Typical programs conclude with a senior project wherein degree-seekers design and create a product. Graduation requirements also include general education courses, such as history and literature.
Typical mechanical engineering schools online require some, if not all, of the following foundational courses. However, course expectations and academic requirements vary among schools. Please visit a program's website or contact an admissions advisor to learn more about the student experience and graduate outcomes.
Engineering Graphics Communication
Engineering graphics communication introduces students to drafting software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Pro/E. Coursework involves developing simple blueprints and creating 3D models. Degree-seekers take this course in their first year of a mechanical engineering online program, as advanced courses require learners to complete assignments using these software suites.Materials Science
Mechanical engineers must consider which materials best suit a product in development. Materials science introduces learners to different materials' mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. Coursework also emphasizes materials' inspection best practices, as selecting the wrong metal, plastic, or polymer during production may lead to a project's failure or put users in physical danger.Applied Strengths of Material
Mechanical engineers create durable products by considering how stress and strain affect moving systems. Course topics include how constant loads wear down materials and formulas engineers use to calculate these effects. Learners examine advanced materials' strength topics, such as materials' failure points when applying different loads simultaneously.
How Much Does a Mechanical Engineering Degree Cost?
Prospective students on a budget should determine whether any in-state public colleges and universities offer a mechanical engineering degree, as these schools charge residents competitive tuition rates. Learners attending a private school may pay more for their degree. Applicants determine a school's return on investment by researching graduate outcomes.
An online mechanical engineering degree may feature cost savings in addition to lower tuition. Some colleges and universities exempt online learners from specific fees. Students do not pay for multiple services that on-campus learners use, such as housing, meals, and transportation. Also, many students with small children circumvent childcare costs.
Institutional financial aid reduces students' tuition. Many schools award grants and scholarships to incoming first-year and transfer students. Active-duty service members may also qualify for an automatic tuition reduction. Please contact your prospective school's financial aid office to learn more about tuition-reduction programs.
How Much Do Mechanical Engineering Majors Make?
Professionals with a mechanical engineering degree working in scientific research and development services earn the highest median annual salary. Other fields offering a competitive salary include computer and electronic product manufacturing, architectural services, and transportation equipment manufacturing. Workers in these sectors earn over $90,000 annually.
Geographic location affects how much mechanical engineering majors make. Workers in New Mexico, Washington, D.C., and California earn significantly more than professionals in other states. Positions in Massachusetts and Louisiana also offer a median salary exceeding $115,000 annually. However, students should consider a state's cost of living before deciding where to start their career.
In addition to becoming a licensed mechanical engineer, workers can increase their salary potential with industry certifications. A certification demonstrates mastery of mechanical engineering topics and dedication to the field. Certification requirements may include possessing relevant experience and passing examinations.
Certifications and Licensure for Mechanical Engineering
Professionals with a mechanical engineering degree may continue their education and earn professional engineering licensure and industry certifications. Licensure and certification requirements involve gaining professional experience and passing an examination. Potential benefits include qualifying for a supervisory position, earning a raise, or exploring new job opportunities.
Certified HVAC Designer
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) awards the CHD to candidates who pass a 115-question examination. ASHRAE members receive a certification discount. Professionals recertify every three years, completing at least 45 professional development (PD) credits. More than 30 U.S. government agencies recognize ASHRAE certifications as a gold standard in the field.Certified Quality Engineer
CQEs possess the honed quality control (QC) skills necessary to develop new systems, analyze improper QC causes, and promote QC best practices. Eligibility requirements for professionals with a mechanical engineering degree include four years of experience and passing a 175-question examination. Recertifying involves completing PD credits or taking another examination.Professional Engineering License
Although recent graduates do not need a license to apply to entry-level positions, licensure helps experienced mechanical engineers advance their career. Eligibility requirements include passing the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and working as an engineer-in-training for at least four years. Candidates then attempt the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam. Other requirements vary by state.Mechanical Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
Top colleges and universities offer a fully online mechanical engineering degree. Students experience the same learning outcomes as on-campus degree-seekers, such as the ability to troubleshoot problems and collaborate with peers.
