Cultivate a deeper conceptional understanding of applied mathematical tools to solve complex engineering challenges at work.
In the Online M.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering program, you can expect to:
- Advance your understanding of materials and technologies relevant to your industry
- Develop expertise across key application areas such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and defense
- Apply engineering principles through a two-semester professional project that addresses a real-world challenge in your workplace
Take Your Engineering Practice to the Next Level with an M.Eng.
Take a project-based approach to advance your technical abilities through a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. Customize your experience through two self-designed courses with workplace application.
This short video provides a complete description of the Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering program.
Solve Engineering Challenges at the Interface of Multiple Disciplines
Build deeper technical expertise while developing the judgment and leadership skills required in complex engineering environments. This M.Eng. program emphasizes advanced modeling, real-world manufacturing applications, and modern project leadership frameworks. You will learn not only how to generate results but how to evaluate their reliability, apply them across industries, and guide teams through structured problem-solving efforts.
Program highlights include:
- Advanced modeling methods using multidimensional finite element simulation and related techniques
- Emphasis on validating results through sound, authoritative engineering judgment
- Exposure to manufacturing applications across multiple industries and product types
- Practical use of Agile and Scrum principles to coordinate work across multiple sprints
- Leadership-focused training in identifying, quantifying, and resolving engineering challenges
Student Testimonial
By completing the Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering program, I was able to use more advanced theoretical approaches to my technical work and create models I was able to validate in real time.
Mechanical Engineering Degree Curriculum and Online Courses
Create a vision statement and bring it to life through a project charter, work breakdown structure, and Gantt chart. Learn how to implement Agile and Scrum principles to strategically connect the work of multiple sprints.
View the ISYE 4240: Engineering Project Management Course Preview Sheet
Develop the mathematical foundations that underpin the many disciplines of engineering. Model and solve engineering problems using linear algebra, calculus, and differential equations, allowing you to account for all variables governing engineering applications.
View the MANE 5000: Advanced Engineering Mathematics Course Preview Sheet
Investigate conduction, convection, and radiation heat transfer, focusing on the practical applications of each. Solve common thermal and fluid engineering challenges for solids, moving fluids, boiling, condensation, heat exchangers, and temperature instrumentation.
View the MANE 6790: Advanced Heat Transfer Course Preview Sheet
Analyze how forces induce stresses in solids using the stress tensor and its 9 interacting normal and shear stress components. Fully quantify the relationship between forces, deformation, material properties, and stress developing higher fidelity models and conclusions.
View the MANE 6170: Mechanics of Solids Course Preview Sheet
Address complex engineering challenges using the finite element method (FEM) to solve differential equations in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, electromagnetics, and acoustics. Transform governing equations using finite element basis functions, building solution methods, and interpreting the results.
View the MANE 4240: Introduction to Finite Elements Course Preview Sheet
Develop expertise with fundamentals used in computational fluid dynamic software packages. Simplify governing equations and choose the best method to ensure convergence of a model. Simulate 2D and 3D, steady and unsteady, laminar and turbulent flows, and account for the influence of complex geometries and turbulence.
View the MANE 6720: Computational Fluid Dynamics Course Preview Sheet
Explore solutions to unresolved problems analyzing a manufacturing process of your choice. Develop computational models and analytics for practical process decisions. Manufacturing areas typically covered include machining, heat treatment, powder particle processing, solidification, and manufacturing logistics.
View the MANE 4640: Analysis of Manufacturing Processes Course Preview Sheet
Improve a process at work using the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control) approach to systematically identify, quantify and fix problems. Set up a Plan, Do, Check, Act to establish the desired future state. Upon completion of the course, earn a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt from RPI at Work.
Collaborate with an instructor mentor to select an engineering problem you would like to solve at work. Develop, refine, and enhance the skills you have gained during your graduate experience. Summarize your results and conclusions in an executive presentation showcasing your methodology, approach, accomplishments, and outcomes.
View the MANE 6970: Professional Project (2) Course Preview Sheet
Online Mechanical Engineering Program FAQs
A mechanical engineering degree focuses on the design, analysis, and optimization of mechanical systems, materials, and processes. At the master’s level, this education emphasizes advanced modeling, simulation, manufacturing systems, and applied engineering judgment, preparing professionals to address complex technical challenges in modern engineering environments.
A mechanical engineering master’s degree supports careers across industries, including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, energy, defense, and product development. Graduates are prepared to take on more complex technical responsibilities, contribute to system-level decision-making, and lead engineering initiatives within their organizations.
Yes. RPI’s online master's degree in mechanical engineering is designed specifically for working professionals. This online program delivers graduate-level rigor through flexible formats that allow engineers to continue working while advancing their technical expertise.
Typically, professionals take two years to complete their degree in mechanical engineering.
For working professionals, a mechanical engineering degree is worth the investment due to its broad applicability, long-term career flexibility, and relevance across high-demand industries. A master’s degree in engineering can further enhance technical depth, professional credibility, and advancement opportunities.
The average salary of a mechanical engineer varies based on experience, industry, and location. Engineers with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from RPI often qualify for higher-level roles that offer increased responsibility and earning potential.
Faculty Spotlight: Ernesto Gutierrez-Miravete
"It is satisfying to see our graduate engineering students empowered to do more advanced technical work that was completely unknown to them before."
Learn More About Ernesto Gutierrez-MiraveteAdmissions Requirements
Applications to the Mechanical Engineering program are reviewed on a holistic basis, considering previous academics, work experience, program alignment, and references. A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a similar field is also required. To view required documents, please visit the apply page here.