Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. Olivia Brown
Embark on a dynamic engineering journey with an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree. Gain expertise, flexibility, and industry-relevant skills from anywhere.
Mechanical engineers devise power-producing machines and power-using systems like electric generators, steam and gas turbines, internal combustion engines, and air-conditioning systems. Pursuing a mechanical engineering degree online enables students to explore various principles governing mechanical design, sensors, energy transfer, and control devices. Graduates are prepared for advanced studies in management, economics, health, dental, and other fields. They also acquire fundamental knowledge in energy and momentum principles, thermodynamics, statistics and probability, physical systems, and more. Those graduating from the online mechanical engineering degree work in several domains, including automotive, bioscience, electricity production, automation, production, Research and development, iron and composites, oil and natural gas, and space.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Degree Programs
Find the Best Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs
While choosing a top bachelor’s degree, individuals must understand factors like the school’s accreditation, quality of educators, student resources, and more. A good bachelor’s education can greatly impact an individual’s professional or career choices. FBD teams have assessed many schools and degrees from across the country and, using a proprietary methodology, prepared a list of institutions offering the best online mechanical engineering degrees:
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
Oregon State University | 1500 SW Jefferson Avenue, Corvallis, Oregon 97331 | $13,446 | 71% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Program
The online degree in mechanical engineering requires 126 credit hours and typically spans four years. Throughout the program, individuals learn how to manufacture and operate components, devices, and systems, gaining a robust understanding of various technical and engineering roles. Coursework includes mechanics of materials, computer programming, computer-aided design, and engineering fluids. Graduates are prepared to analyze pollution, create automatic control systems, and analyze mechanical systems. They develop skills in various areas, such as computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, technical writing, and data science. The program offers on-campus, off-campus, and hybrid learning options. Upon completing the bachelor’s program, graduates can pursue automotive, biomedical, and energy engineering positions.
Curriculum and Coursework
The bachelor’s in mechanical engineering curriculum will include basic principles explaining how to design and manufacture objects and systems used today. It helps individuals build holistic skills across disciplines to approach problems using the proper methods and tools. The courses allow students to explore other interest areas, learning about aerospace, petrochemical, and manufacturing industries.
Students gain hands-on learning experience through the coursework, from designing projects to developing prototypes. It gives them the strategic skills needed in Computer-aided design, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Creo Elements, Finite Element Methods, Design Software, and more. Apart from specific engineering courses, students acquire knowledge in general education courses like English, Calculus, Applied differential equations, General Physics, and General Chemistry.
Colleges providing bachelor’s in mechanical engineering coursework offer fundamental computer, mechanical engineering, technical electives, humanities or social and behavioral science, writing, and other core mechanical engineering courses. Every institution develops its curriculum for graduation, although almost all colleges have some standard courses, including:
Computer-Aided Design
The CAD course describes technical visuals and modeling tools designers use to make layouts of standard components. Students learn to use computers to aid design analysis, creation, or optimization. The course also enhances design productivity and quality, progress design quality, document communication, and creating a manufacturing database.
Engineering Statics
This course is intended to teach learners how to examine how energies are generated within structures and introduce them to structural properties. Students also learn about different methods for quantifying forces between objects or bodies. It is a fundamental course as it helps students apply Newtonian physics to design and analyze systems, structures, and objects concerning deformation, failure, and motion.
Materials
Through this course, students comprehend the different architectures and characteristics of semiconductors, minerals, iron, and hybrids. It covers the learning of activities, including research in fluids, materials, solids, thermodynamics, and dynamics. The course enhances materials design knowledge, materials used, and properties in manufactured articles.
Thermodynamics
Thermodynamics is a discipline of science that studies the thermal and degree of metals, fluids, hydrocarbons, and mixes and their power relationship. Students learn about the basic concepts of thermodynamics, including an introduction to the laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamics properties, systems, and thermodynamics cycles.
Fluid Dynamics
This subject explores the fundamental rules that regulate the flow of liquids and hydrocarbons. Students learn about applied science concerned with the movement of gases and liquids. It includes the study of fundamental fluid mechanics principles like momentum principle, energy equation, and continuity education.
Some of the other standard courses students can find across the bachelor in mechanical engineering coursework include:
- Mathematical Methods for Engineers
- Systems Dynamics and Control
- Engineering Profession
- Structural Mechanics
- Heat Transfer
- Mechanics of Materials Lab
- Dynamic Manufacturing Practices
- Applied Experimental Statistics
- Mechanical Engineering Design
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Executive Architecture
- Engineering Economics
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The mechanical engineering bachelor’s program teaches students to apply fundamental thermal, fluid, mechanics, and more concepts to mechanical engineering practice. The program enhances their ability to think critically and gain experience in designing systems and products. Students who graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering will potentially display some unique skills, including the ability to:
- recognize, develop, and fix challenging problems using analysis and design, calculus fundamentals, and the scientific method;
- demonstrate understanding of personal and responsible duties in engineering circumstances and the capacity to make educated decisions considering the effect of technical solutions in world, financial, climatic, and social contexts;
- demonstrate competence to design, conduct relevant experiments, evaluate and comprehend information, and derive technological results;
- solve complex challenges in engineering by applying principles of science, mathematics, and engineering;
- demonstrate the capability to employ systems engineering to deliver solutions that satisfy the system’s function while considering the healthcare system, well-being, government benefits, and worldwide ethnic, interpersonal, ecological, and socioeconomic disparities;
- demonstrate the capacity to successfully connect with a wide range of individuals and obtain and apply concepts as required, utilizing adequate learning processes;
- recognize professional and ethical responsibilities in various engineering situations, making informed judgments and considering the impact of engineering solutions in economic, environmental, societal, and global contexts;
- demonstrate the capacity to work successfully as a unit to improve access direction, promote a supportive and open atmosphere, set priorities, schedule tasks, and implement the strategy;
Types of Degrees Mechanical Engineering Students Can Obtain
Students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering are training for career development in an age of fast-expanding multidisciplinary technologies. There are mainly two types of bachelor’s in mechanical engineering online degree programs available in the U.S.: a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Mechanical Engineering. Interested applicants commonly take up Bachelor of Science. Mechanical engineering is also a significant subject in some Engineering degrees.
Bachelor of Arts or BA with a major in Mechanical Engineering
The Bachelor of Arts or BA with a major in mechanical engineering helps students learn, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of science, mathematics, and engineering. Students can also use engineering design to produce solutions that meet specific needs while considering public health, welfare, and safety. Individuals interested in developing, designing, and operating different physical systems generally pursue this program.
Bachelor of Science or B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering
Through this program, students are trained in the science of designing components, systems, or machines. They are equipped to apply engineering design and produce solutions meeting the needs of a global audience. They learn to design, control, and build devices, processes, systems, and machines. The curriculum often includes principles governing sensors, control devices, energy transfer, and mechanical designs and uses these principles to solve practical problems in engineering.
Areas of Specialization for Mechanical Engineering Students
The mechanical engineering degree online addresses a broad spectrum of control science and engineering, from mathematical theory to computer implementation. Therefore, students might find various concentration areas in this program that directly relate to specific jobs in the domain. Many of the mechanical engineering degrees online offer concentrations such as :
Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
---|---|---|
Fluid mechanics and Thermal systems | This specialization involves understanding heat flow between objects and learning mechanisms like conduction, radiation, and convection. Students also understand how to apply experimental techniques and models in mathematics based on principles from fluid and gas dynamics, physics, transfer of heat development, etc. | • Thermal Engineering • Design Engineering • Research and Development Manager •Technical Specialist |
Material Science and Engineering | This concentration helps students understand the history of material science, the usage of complex topics, and materials structure, properties, and composition. It also provides practical experience and cutting-edge research in material science currently under development. | • Design Engineer • Materials Engineer • CAD Technician • Metallurgist Research Scientist |
Machine Design and Development/ Solid Mechanics | This concentration helps students deal with design components, products, systems, or parts of a mechanical nature. Students learn about different types of machine design, including adaptive design, development design or variant design, and original or new design. | • Mechanical Design Engineer • Machine Design Engineer • Product Development Engineer • Manufacturing Engineer |
Automation and Control Systems | This concentration enhances students’ understanding of mechanical, electronic, and electrical machine components. It also teaches the regulations of devices operating in real-time and involves integrating machines, equipment, and appliances within the manufacturing plant. | • Control Engineer • Automation Engineer • Instrumentation Engineer • Robotics Engineer |
Mechanics of materials | This concentration helps students gain knowledge in deformable solids using different quantitative or numerical models. Students learn to use experimental and computational design and modeling techniques to collaborate with other stakeholders in the field. | • Materials Engineer • Structural Engineer • Finite Element Analyst • Research Scientist |
Robotics | Robotics is a scientific discipline that draws on knowledge from several technical fields. The specialty enables students to study in a practical manner. In robotics, mechanical engineering combines other technological fields, such as computer engineering, application development, and medical technology. | • Aerospace Engineer • Electromechanical Engineer • Robotics Technician • Automation Specialist |
Computational Engineering | Computational Engineering is a high-level mechanical engineering course in which students acquire to develop utilizing a software package, i.e., on a machine. The automobile, aeronautical, and biotech sectors must have excellent and valuable mechanics models. This mechanical engineering specialization includes planning and creating complex industrial applications, not just automobile processes. | • Data Scientist • Thermal Evaluation Engineer • Simulation Engineer • Computational Fluid Dynamics Analyst |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
An online degree in mechanical engineering can be completed in four to six years, depending on your learning mode, and consists of an average of 128 credit hours. When completed full-time, you can complete the course in four years; however, taking up the part-time option will take you more than four to six years to finish the requirements. Prospective undergraduates can also complete the program online, offline, or in hybrid modes. If you are taking up an online method of education, colleges may provide you with the asynchronous or synchronous learning option. Here is a summary of the timeline for completing an online degree in mechanical engineering:
- Full-Time Program: An online degree in mechanical engineering typically takes four years to complete.
- Part-Time Program: An online degree in mechanical engineering typically takes four to six years to complete on a part-time basis.
Accelerated Mechanical Engineering Programs
An accelerated engineering bachelor’s program is one of the quickest paths to earn an undergraduate degree. Students can graduate earlier than the traditional four years by taking more credits per semester. Many colleges offer integrated bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, allowing completion of both degrees in five years instead of six. Here are a few examples of Universities that provide accelerated online mechanical engineering degree programs.
Requirements for Getting into an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Program
Every university’s entrance criterion for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering is different. Some colleges encourage students to register an application profile on the university’s website and acquire an ID to utilize during the hiring process. Others demand that potential candidates meet an offered adviser to check admittance criteria. However, there are some standard online mechanical engineering degree admission requirements that students can find across different curriculums, including:
- An enrolment record or an applications supervisor meeting
- A successful online application (including payment of any associated fee)
- Complete transcripts from High School
- Official transcripts from other educational degrees attended
- ACT or SAT scores of a minimum of 2.0 may be required
- Personal essays that describe why you are interested in mechanical engineering
- Letters of recommendation, at least one should be from an academic professional who can provide judgment about your academic caliber
- Proof of English competence, often through the TOEFL or IELTS scores for international or non-native English speakers
How to Ensure an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree is Accredited
Accreditation is a peer-led review process determining whether academic programs meet quality standards. Once an institution gains accreditation, it is not permanent, and it will need to be renewed periodically to ensure that the program’s quality is maintained. Therefore, students can be assured of such programs’ resources, coursework, and faculty.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)3 accredits the online mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree for Engineering and technology. With an ABET accreditation, employers and students can be confident that the program meets quality standards and prepares them to enter the workforce.
Universities can also be accredited nationally or by one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Council for Higher Education Accreditation4 and Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs5 are national organizations focused on quality assurance and higher education accreditation. Prospective students can refer to the Guide to College Accreditation to understand more about the accreditation process.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Students
Free online courses offer valuable knowledge and skills to students despite lacking accreditation. These courses cover diverse topics and are accessible to learners worldwide, fostering continuous learning and personal development. While not accredited, they provide opportunities for self-improvement, career advancement, and exploration of new interests, enriching individuals’ lives beyond traditional educational pathways. Here are a few free mechanical engineering courses students can explore:
Course | Description | Provided by |
---|---|---|
Introduction to Engineering Mechanics6 | Through this free course, Students learn concepts of particle equilibrium, vectors in two or three dimensions, and equilibrium of systems of particles. They get a fair idea of how to analyze general equilibrium challenges and their real-world engineering applications. The course provides many materials and resources for students to explore the concepts independently. | Coursera |
Mechanical Systems of Engineering7 | The course provides a comprehensive understanding of engineering thermodynamics and its applications to comprehend vehicle specifications. It also helps students learn about concepts like energy sources and conversions, thermal and nuclear power plants, and hydropower plants. | Coursesity |
Manufacturing Process Control 8 | This course helps students learn about variation modeling using statistical process control applications and foundations, the theory of random processes, and different methods to analyze process changes by understanding the general operation of physics. Students also understand how to develop robust statistical process control strategies for measuring global manufacturing quality. | edX |
Mechanical Engineering – Internal Combustion Engine Basics9 | This course helps one understand Compressors, converter rotors, and many more devices that are rotated by internal combustion compressors outside the electrical architecture and automotive technology sectors. | Alison |
Ways to Pay for an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree
Deciding how to finance graduate education can be stressful. The average cost of an online associate degree in mechanical engineering in the United States has increased annually, influenced by factors like location and program type. This may deter some from pursuing these programs. Fortunately, various options exist to alleviate the financial burden. Those candidates planning to apply or currently pursuing a mechanical engineer degree online can look up the following financial aids to understand how to pay for college:
Private student loans
Some students also need to take up private educational loans, which national banks, financial institutions, and federal governments provide. Grants and Donors fund such loans.
Scholarships are reasonable sources of funding that a student will only need to pay back to the organization providing the scholarships if the student can fulfill the terms on which the scholarship was granted. Institutions can provide scholarships based on merit in academics or other organizations providing merit in different fields like music, sports, and more.
Grants may be awarded to students based on their merit. Different governments of federal and state, non-profit institutions, and educational institutions will provide grants. Grants can be provided for specific purposes.
FAFSA, or The Free Application for Student Aid, is an application form that determines the status of a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid. The form is used to establish qualifications for income support, and Some governments and institutions use it to allocate FAFSA Student Aid.
Federal direct loans
These are loans of low interest that governments fund. Students only need to repay these loans once they graduate from the programs. Students will also only be required to repay loans once they are unemployed.
Scholarships for Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Students
Scholarships are a good way for students to support their mechanical engineering degree scholarships. Meritorious students can apply for such scholarships, which will help them reduce their expenses considerably. Students who get scholarships to fund their education will be less burdened and can focus on their education and growth.
Some scholarships are listed below:
Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
---|---|---|---|
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Scholarships 10 | Applications are accepted from pre & undergraduate engineering students. Students earning a bachelor of science in engineering at a full-time college who are simultaneously taking programs deemed vital for the HVAC industry are also eligible to apply. Additionally, candidates must have an overall GPA of 3.0 or more. | Varies | December annually |
Edward D. Hendrickson Engineering Scholarship11 | Candidates for this grant must be U.S. citizens, enrolled in an ABET-accredited program for engineering or a closely linked scientific knowledge, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be entering students or graduates. | $5,000 per year | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree
Graduates with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering unlock diverse career paths and competitive salaries. Their versatile skill set opens doors to roles across various industries, offering opportunities for professional growth and financial stability. Mechanical engineering degree holders are sought after for their problem-solving abilities and analytical mindset in dynamic work environments. There are many occupations graduates of an online mechanical engineering bachelor degree can pursue; here are a few examples:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Construction Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Production Engineer
- Project Lead
- Automotive Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Quality Engineer
- Thermal Engineer
- Technology Specialist
Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mechanical Engineer 12 | Listening, math, problem-solving, mechanical, and creativity skills. | $96,310 | 10% (much faster than average) | Mechanical engineers can investigate difficulties or failures in equipment to diagnose faulty operations and recommend remedies. They can also test and develop prototypes of devices designed and oversee their manufacturing processes. |
Materials Engineer 13 | Analytical, math, problem-solving, speaking, and writing skills | $100,140 | 5% (faster than average) | Material engineers process, develop, and test materials used to create many products, from aircraft wings to biomedical devices. They study the structures and properties of ceramics, plastics, composites, nanomaterials, metals, and other substances to create materials that meet specific electrical, chemical, and mechanical requirements. |
Aerospace Engineers 14 | Analytical, business, critical-thinking, math, problem-solving, and writing skills | $126,880 | 6% (faster than average) | Aerospace engineers primarily design spacecraft, satellites, missiles, and aircraft. They coordinate and direct the design, testing, and manufacturing of aerospace and aircraft products and determine if proposed projects will meet the defined goals and safe operations. |
Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers 15 | Analytical, communication, creativity, math, and problem-solving skills | $99,550 | 5% (faster than average) | These professionals combine engineering principles with sciences to create and design devices, computer systems, software, and equipment. They also install, provide, or maintain technical support for biomedical equipment and develop statistical simulations or models using modeling or statistical software. |
Construction or Civil Engineer 16 | Decision-making, leadership, math, organizational, problem-solving, writing, and speaking skills | $89,940 | 5% (faster than average) | Such professionals build, devise, design, operate, and construct infrastructure systems and projects in private and public sectors; this includes roads, airports, tunnels, dams, buildings, techniques, and bridges for sewage treatment and water supply. They also analyze survey reports, maps, plans, and other data to design and plan projects. |
Surveyors 17 | Communication, detail-oriented, physical stamina, problem-solving, time-management, and visualization skills | $63,080 | 5% (faster than average) | Surveyors measure angles and distances between points above, below, or on the surface of the Earth. They travel to locations and use different reference points to determine the precise location of significant features. Surveyors also look for evidence of other boundaries to regulate located boundary lines. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Graduates
Certifications bolster students’ resumes, validating their expertise and competencies. By obtaining certifications, aspiring mechanical engineers enhance their employability and stand out in the competitive job market. These credentials affirm their knowledge and skills, confidently empowering them to pursue lucrative engineering positions. Here are a few certifications graduates with a mechanical engineering online degree can pursue:
CAD and Digital Manufacturing 18
Individuals can pursue a manufacturing certificate online at their own pace. They acquire specialized skills while mastering virtual development and manufacturing technology basics. To enhance structured thinking, this course features a practical learning component where individuals design a rescue operation device.
In this program, individuals learn about electro-mechanical technology procedures from The Associate of Energy Engineers. As learners study and comprehend better methods for diverse project implementation, it confirms their knowledge of processes and development. By passing this certification exam, they can demonstrate how to make projects cost- and energy-effective
Certified Manufacturing Engineer 20
This certification evaluates the participant’s expertise in engineering and innovative production. To apply for this certification, individuals must have at least eight years of mechanical design experience—at least four of which must have been gained professionally. Participants might join with less knowledge and skills based on their other credentials.
Engineers who are familiar with the foundations of customer satisfaction are eligible for the Quality Engineer Certification. To successfully complete this certification, it is ideal to possess an in-depth understanding of quality assessment methods and production control concepts. This certification demonstrates individuals’ expertise in quality standards and their comprehension of human factors, quality costs, and management systems.
In mechanical engineering, many job roles require a Professional Engineering or PE license. Individuals must pass their respective state’s PE licensure to obtain the relevant credentials. You can also check the requirements of the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam test22. Getting a license as a professional engineer is not compulsory. However, it can add to their professional caliber.
Additional Resources for Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Graduates
Professional associations, business magazines, and online training providers are among the resources available to computer science majors. Students need access to various development resources to stay current with technological breakthroughs. Students pursuing an online mechanical engineering bachelor degree can explore such resources as mentioned below:
Title/Resource | Description |
---|---|
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) | IEEE links its members with employment, academic, and community development activities. IEEE has well-maintained engineering libraries and journals that are acknowledged in the business. |
American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) | AAEES membership is free for earth sciences bachelor’s or master’s students for a year following graduation. Membership benefits include discount coupons, membership in AAEES community events, and an online membership fee to Environmental Engineering and Scientist. |
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) | Engineering students can access materials from ASCE, such as credit for continuing education and support with the Professional Engineer Exam. Members can find connections, training, and community programs and obtain articles and digital publications. |
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) | Over 110,000 individuals from more than 150 nations are currently members of ASME. Accessible to all technicians, ASME provides ongoing training options, print and digital journals, and possibilities for professional advancement. |
Society of Women Engineers | The Society of Women Engineers is a global organization that advocates and is a catalyst for promoting women in the field of engineering and technology. They aim to maintain an environment supporting elements and promoting inclusion within the organization and the community of engineering as well. |
FAQs About Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs
Can you get a mechanical engineering degree online?
Yes. Many accredited universities offer online mechanical engineering degree programs. These programs provide flexible learning options, allowing students to study independently and balance education with other commitments. Online platforms often include virtual labs and interactive simulations to facilitate hands-on learning in a remote environment.
Are companies concerned if students have an online degree?
What can you do with an online mechanical engineering degree?
Is an online degree in mechanical engineering worth it?
What do you need to be a mechanical engineer?
What degree is best for a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering?
Citations:
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
ADatabase of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
Coursera-Introduction to Engineering Mechanics
Coursesity-Mechanical Systems of Engineering
edX-Manufacturing Process Control I
Alison-Mechanical Engineering – Internal Combustion Engine Basics
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Scholarships
Edward D. Hendrickson Engineering Scholarship
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Mechanical Engineer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Materials Engineer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Aerospace Engineers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Construction or civil engineer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Surveyors