The education needed to be a mechanical engineer is normally a bachelor's degree. Mechanical engineers usually study mechanical engineering, mechanical engineering technology or engineering. 77% of mechanical engineers hold a bachelor's degree and 11% hold a master's degree. We found these by analyzing 29,639 mechanical engineer resumes to investigate the topic of mechanical engineer education more precisely.

The most common colleges for students to pursue their goal of becoming a mechanical engineer are Northeastern University and Pennsylvania State University. We also broke down what colleges provide the best overall education for a mechanical engineer. Students have a great path to earning their mechanical engineer qualifications at the following schools:

  1. Michigan Technological University
  2. Georgia Institute of Technology
  3. Cornell University

If you're interested in getting a college degree in an affordable college for mechanical engineers - Brigham Young University is an excellent option for you. If your SAT or ACT score aren't as high as you'd like, you can look at Oregon Institute of Technology, as the admission requirements aren't too selective. On the other end of that spectrum are the California Institute of Technology, Northwestern University and Columbia University in the City of New York.

For those who would rather stay in your pajamas during the day, we prepared some online courses that can help in mechanical engineer education paths.

We prepared a list of a mechanical engineer certifications that you should consider. The necessary certifications that mechanical engineers must have to succeed are Engineer In Training Certification (EIT) and EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA).

Mechanical Engineer JOBS

What Education is Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer?

What Degree Should I Get to Become a Mechanical Engineer?

The most common degree for mechanical engineers is bachelor's degree 77% of mechanical engineers earn that degree. A close second is master's degree with 11% and rounding it off is associate degree with 7%.

  • Bachelors, 77%
  • Masters, 11%
  • Associate, 7%
  • Diploma, 1%
  • Other Degrees, 4%

What Should I Major in to Become a Mechanical Engineer?

Most mechanical engineers, 74% to be exact, major in mechanical engineering. Some other common majors for a mechanical engineer include mechanical engineering technology and engineering majors.

Most Common Colleges For Mechanical Engineers

Here are the most common colleges for a mechanical engineer career in the US based on their resumes. Advocates often get their degree in Northeastern University, Pennsylvania State University, and Purdue University .

Mechanical Engineer Common CollegePercentages
Northeastern University7.90%
Pennsylvania State University7.83%
Purdue University6.86%
University of California - Davis6.16%
University of California, Santa Barbara6.01%

10 Best Universities For Mechanical Engineers

In a lot of cases, a higher education can mean a higher salary or even a better job. That's why we found out the best colleges for mechanical engineers. We based this list on these metrics: admissions rate, retention rate, mean earnings of students working, ratio of working vs. non-working students 10 years after admission, average cost of attendance and median debt for graduates.

1. Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI • Private

In-State Tuition

$15,646

Enrollment

5,736

Website

https://www.mtu.edu

Address

1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI 49931-1295

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $54,000 per year

Net Price: $15,348 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 73.88%
SAT Average - 1272
ACT Average - 27
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

2. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA • Private

In-State Tuition

$12,424

Enrollment

15,201

Website

www.gatech.edu

Address

225 North Avenue, N.W., Atlanta, GA 30332

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $66,100 per year

Net Price: $14,927 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 21.53%
SAT Average - 1465
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Business
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering

3. Cornell University

Ithaca, NY • Private

In-State Tuition

$55,188

Enrollment

15,105

Website

www.cornell.edu

Address

300 Day Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $76,300 per year

Net Price: $30,494 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 10.61%
SAT Average - 1471
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

4. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

In-State Tuition

$54,568

Enrollment

8,451

Website

www.northwestern.edu

Address

633 Clark St, Evanston, IL 60208

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $71,900 per year

Net Price: $24,840 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 8.47%
SAT Average - 1508
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Engineering

5. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

In-State Tuition

$59,430

Enrollment

8,216

Website

www.columbia.edu

Address

535 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10027

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $77,900 per year

Net Price: $22,637 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 5.91%
SAT Average - 1512
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

6. Iowa State University of Science and Technology

Ames, IA • Private

In-State Tuition

$8,988

Enrollment

29,248

Website

www.iastate.edu

Address

1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $44,000 per year

Net Price: $15,140 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 90.60%
SAT Average - 1219
ACT Average - 25
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Business
Civil Engineering
Industrial Engineering

7. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

In-State Tuition

$53,740

Enrollment

5,567

Website

www.jhu.edu

Address

3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218-2688

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $68,000 per year

Net Price: $30,701 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 11.48%
SAT Average - 1513
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Biomedical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Business

8. Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

In-State Tuition

$55,465

Enrollment

6,483

Website

www.cmu.edu/

Address

5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3890

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $84,000 per year

Net Price: $32,674 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 17.12%
SAT Average - 1507
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Electrical Engineering
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering

9. University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • Private

In-State Tuition

$10,610

Enrollment

40,329

Website

www.utexas.edu

Address

110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, TX 78712

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $52,200 per year

Net Price: $16,505 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 38.52%
SAT Average - 1367
ACT Average - 30
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering

10. University of Wisconsin - Madison

Madison, WI • Private

In-State Tuition

$10,555

Enrollment

30,360

Website

www.wisc.edu

Address

500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, WI 53706

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $49,600 per year

Net Price: $18,219 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 51.73%
SAT Average - 1365
ACT Average - 30
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

20 Best Online Courses for Mechanical Engineers

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1. Applications in Engineering Mechanics

coursera

This course applies principles learned in my course “Introduction to Engineering Mechanics” to analyze real world engineering structures. You will need to have mastered the engineering fundamentals from that class in order to be successful in this course offering. This course addresses the modeling and analysis of static equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering systems and problem solving. --------------------------- Recommended Background: You will need to have...

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2. Simulation Analysis for Mechanical Engineers with Autodesk Fusion 360

coursera

The foundation of engineering design is often coupled with validation. Simulation is a great tool that allows engineers to test, validate, and modify designs before they become a physical prototype. When used early in the process for simulation driven design and throughout the development process, simulation can help drive the design, make informed design decisions, speed up time to production, and most importantly, identify and eliminate costly design mistakes. Like any other tool though, it...

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3. Introduction to Engineering Mechanics

coursera

This course is an introduction to learning and applying the principles required to solve engineering mechanics problems. Concepts will be applied in this course from previous courses you have taken in basic math and physics. The course addresses the modeling and analysis of static equilibrium problems with an emphasis on real world engineering applications and problem solving. The copyright of all content and materials in this course are owned by either the Georgia Tech Research Corporation or...

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4. Quantum Mechanics for Engineers

coursera

This Specialization is intended for engineers seeking to acquire fundamental understanding of quantum mechanics which are the basis of modern electrical, mechanical and quantum engineering. Through 3 courses, you will learn (1) basic concepts such as superposition and entanglement of quantum states, measurement in quantum mechanics and uncertainty principle, (2) mathematical tools needed to describe and manipulate quantum states, (3) advanced theory of angular momentum and (4) approximation...

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5. Modeling and Design for Mechanical Engineers with Autodesk Fusion 360

coursera

There are many considerations that play a part in engineering a new product. Regardless of what that product is, there are fundamentals such as form, fit, and function when it comes to digital modeling. In this course, we lay the foundation to create any design and dive deep into topics about the control of the design. From assembly joints and joint limits to complex shapes using forms, rest assured that your design will be rock solid. After completing this course you'll be able to: - Create...

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6. Mechanical design and Product development process

udemy
4.2
(421)

Learn the basic ideas and concepts behind developing mechanical products related to mechanical engineering...

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7. The Complete Engineering Mechanics Course

udemy
4
(302)

Master the fundamentals of mechanics, statics and applied physics and then solve real-world mechanics problems...

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8. Diesel Engine Fundamentals (Mechanical Engineering)

udemy
4.4
(317)

Learn about the diesel engine! Ideal for Automotive Engineering and Automobile Engineering!...

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9. Engineering Mechanics: Statics

udemy
4.7
(534)

The Study of Objects in Equilibrium...

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10. Mechanical engineering design: Sheet metal design

udemy
4.2
(645)

Learn Sheet metal design, processes and practical design considerations along with Design projects...

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11. Reliability and Maintenance Engineering - FMEA

udemy
4.4
(456)

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis - A mechanical engineering approach to risk management of plant and machinery...

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12. Basics of Tolerance Stack-up Analysis and Fits with GD & T

udemy
4.4
(361)

Learn About Tolerances Stack-up Analysis and about fits in engineering with multiple examples with GD & T for mechanical...

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13. Internal Combustion Engine Basics (Mechanical Engineering)

udemy
4.6
(661)

Learn how internal combustion engines work! Learn all of a combustion engine's main components and how they work!...

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14. ANSYS Training: An Easy Introduction with Applications

udemy
4.3
(1,525)

Essential training on solving Engineering Problems from start by using Ansys workbench with examples...

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15. Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering Explained

udemy
4.8
(1,068)

Learn how things work! Boilers, engines, valves, transformers, pumps, learn it all in this constantly growing course!...

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16. Manufacturing Guide for Mechanical Product Development

udemy
4.3
(455)

Learn how everyday physical products are manufactured with no prior experience in engineering...

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17. Ansys Workbench - Analysis Engineering Training Program

udemy
4.1
(486)

If you want to be an Analysis Engineer with Ansys Workbench join this Course!...

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18. Abaqus CAE: Learn Static and Dynamic Analysis

udemy
4.5
(630)

Learn Finite element analysis & simulation with Abaqus CAE...

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19. Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1

edX (Global)

This 9 week course aims to teach quantum mechanics to anyone with a reasonable college-level understanding of physical science or engineering. Quantum mechanics was once mostly of interest to physicists, chemists and other basic scientists. Now the concepts and techniques of quantum mechanics are essential in many areas of engineering and science such as materials science, nanotechnology, electronic devices, and photonics. This course is a substantial introduction to quantum mechanics and how...

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20. Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 2

edX (Global)

This course covers key topics in the use of quantum mechanics in many modern applications in science and technology, introduces core advanced concepts such as spin, identical particles, the quantum mechanics of light, the basics of quantum information, and the interpretation of quantum mechanics, and covers the major ways in which quantum mechanics is written and used in modern practice. It follows on directly from the "Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1" course, and is also...

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Best Mechanical Engineer Certifications in 2023

1. Engineer In Training Certification (EIT)

The EIT Certification, which is formally known as the Engineer In Training Certification, is simply a document, a number, granted by the individual’s state engineering board after they pass the Engineer In Training Exam. The Engineer in Training Exam (EIT Exam) is the first of two exams you will take as you move towards obtaining your Professional Engineering License (PE). This exam, which you may also hear referred to as the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE Exam), is developed and administered in all states (and a number of locations outside the US) by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The FE Exam is offered to eligible students year-round in four different testing windows.

The EIT Certification, which is formally known as the Engineer In Training Certification, is simply a document, a number, granted by the individual’s state engineering board after they pass the Engineer In Training Exam. The Engineer in Training Exam (EIT Exam) is the first of two exams you will take as you move towards obtaining your Professional Engineering License (PE). This exam, which you may also hear referred to as the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE Exam), is developed and administered in all states (and a number of locations outside the US) by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The FE Exam is offered to eligible students year-round in four different testing windows.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? No
  • Renewal Required? No

2. EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA)

A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.

A comprehensive, equipment specific safety program designed to provide operators and their employees with a thorough understanding of best risk management practices. Industry accidents, which serve to put a spotlight on potential issues, can often be avoided through the utilization of proper risk management techniques.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 
Certifying Organization
Event Planners Association

3. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

CEM, which stands for Certified Energy Manager®, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated high levels of experience, competence, proficiency, and ethical fitness in the energy management profession. Each CEM candidate must meet one of the following criteria. A four-year engineering degree and/or P.E., with at least three years experience in energy engineering or energy management.A four-year business or related degree, with at least five years experience in energy engineering or energy management.A two-year technical degree, with eight years experience in energy engineering or energy management.Ten years or more verified experience in energy engineering or energy management.

CEM, which stands for Certified Energy Manager®, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated high levels of experience, competence, proficiency, and ethical fitness in the energy management profession. Each CEM candidate must meet one of the following criteria. A four-year engineering degree and/or P.E., with at least three years experience in energy engineering or energy management.A four-year business or related degree, with at least five years experience in energy engineering or energy management.A two-year technical degree, with eight years experience in energy engineering or energy management.Ten years or more verified experience in energy engineering or energy management.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
Certifying Website
Certified Energy Manager
Certifying Organization
Association of Energy Engineers

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

The PMP designation following your name tells current and potential employers that you have demonstrated a solid foundation of knowledge from which you can competently practice project management.To be eligible for a PMP Credential, you must first meet specific educational and project management experience requirements and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. The final step to becoming a PMP is passing a rigorous multiple-choice examination designed to objectively assess and measure your ability to apply project management knowledge in the following six domains: initiating the project, planning the project, executing the project, monitoring and controlling the project, closing the project, and professional and social responsibility. This computer-based examination is administered globally with translation aids in 10 languages.

The PMP designation following your name tells current and potential employers that you have demonstrated a solid foundation of knowledge from which you can competently practice project management.To be eligible for a PMP Credential, you must first meet specific educational and project management experience requirements and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. The final step to becoming a PMP is passing a rigorous multiple-choice examination designed to objectively assess and measure your ability to apply project management knowledge in the following six domains: initiating the project, planning the project, executing the project, monitoring and controlling the project, closing the project, and professional and social responsibility. This computer-based examination is administered globally with translation aids in 10 languages.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
Project Management Certification Training + 2 Practice Exams
udemy
3.9
(134)

5. Engineering Management Certification Fundamentals (EMCF)

The EMCF examination emphasizes fundamental aspects and principles of engineering management and is designed for early career engineers and other technical professionals. If you are an early career engineer, scientist, or other technologist intent on entering engineering management on your career path, then the EMCF credential is right for you.

The EMCF examination emphasizes fundamental aspects and principles of engineering management and is designed for early career engineers and other technical professionals. If you are an early career engineer, scientist, or other technologist intent on entering engineering management on your career path, then the EMCF credential is right for you.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)

6. Certified Agile Developer (CAD)

Agile approaches help teams respond to unpredictability through incremental, iterative work cadences, known as sprints. Agile methodologies are an alternative to waterfall, or traditional sequential development. Agile, a popular method of delivering top-quality software on schedule through a collaborative, iterative approach. Certification helps in understanding the key principles of Agile software development, which promote faster release cycles, better deliverable's and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. You’ll gain knowledge on policies and process improvements that can enhance interactions between developers and project and program managers. Agile software development, uses iterative, feature-driven, customer-focused Agile practices to develop applications that meet user requirements. In this certification, you also gain practical experience performing each role within an Agile team.

Agile approaches help teams respond to unpredictability through incremental, iterative work cadences, known as sprints. Agile methodologies are an alternative to waterfall, or traditional sequential development. Agile, a popular method of delivering top-quality software on schedule through a collaborative, iterative approach. Certification helps in understanding the key principles of Agile software development, which promote faster release cycles, better deliverable's and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. You’ll gain knowledge on policies and process improvements that can enhance interactions between developers and project and program managers. Agile software development, uses iterative, feature-driven, customer-focused Agile practices to develop applications that meet user requirements. In this certification, you also gain practical experience performing each role within an Agile team.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? No
  • Renewal Required? No

7. Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)

Targeted towards systems engineers with five or more years of systems engineering work experience

Targeted towards systems engineers with five or more years of systems engineering work experience

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)

8. Six Sigma Yellow Belt

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (ICYB) is a professional who is versed in the basics of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology who supports improvement projects as a part of a team or conducts small projects on a part time basis. A Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt possesses an understanding of the aspects within the phases of D-M-C.

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (ICYB) is a professional who is versed in the basics of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology who supports improvement projects as a part of a team or conducts small projects on a part time basis. A Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt possesses an understanding of the aspects within the phases of D-M-C.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 
Certifying Website
Six Sigma Yellow Belt
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
Six Sigma: Certified Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt (Accredited)
udemy
4.6
(7,515)

9. LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED)

For professionals with expertise in the design and construction phases of green buildings, serving the commercial, residential, education and healthcare sectors. The LEED BD+C exam is designed to measure your knowledge and skill in understanding the LEED Rating system and ability to facilitate the project certification process.

For professionals with expertise in the design and construction phases of green buildings, serving the commercial, residential, education and healthcare sectors. The LEED BD+C exam is designed to measure your knowledge and skill in understanding the LEED Rating system and ability to facilitate the project certification process.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 2 year(s)
Certifying Website
LEED AP Building Design...
Certifying Organization
Green Business Certification Inc.
Course That Help You To Prepare For Certification
LEED Green Associate V4 Exam Preparation Course English
udemy
4.4
(821)

10. Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE)

Professionals who earn a CMfgE demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing processes and practices. Pursuing a CMfgE certification requires a minimum of 8 years of combined manufacturing-related education and/or work experience, including a minimum of 4 years of work experience. A CMfgT with a minimum of 7 years manufacturing-related work experience and/or education also qualifies.

Professionals who earn a CMfgE demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing processes and practices. Pursuing a CMfgE certification requires a minimum of 8 years of combined manufacturing-related education and/or work experience, including a minimum of 4 years of work experience. A CMfgT with a minimum of 7 years manufacturing-related work experience and/or education also qualifies.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 3 year(s)

Entry Level Jobs For Becoming A Mechanical Engineer

Top 10 Affordable Universities For Mechanical Engineers

If those top 10 were a bit out of your price range, you might want to check these schools instead. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price and mean earnings after 6 years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for mechanical engineers.

1. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,620

Cost of Attendance

18,136

Website

www.byu.edu

Address

Main Campus, Provo, UT 84602

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $46,600 per year

Net Price: $13,181 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 64.47%
SAT Average - 1324
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering

2. Inter American University of Puerto Rico Arecibo

Arecibo, PR • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,872

Cost of Attendance

13,476

Website

www.arecibo.inter.edu/

Address

P. O. Box 4050, Arecibo, PR 00614-4050

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $19,300 per year

Net Price: $8,438 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 28.28%

3. Inter American University of Puerto Rico Bayamon

Bayamon, PR • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,940

Cost of Attendance

13,508

Website

bayamon.inter.edu

Address

500 Road 830, Bayamon, PR 00957

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $19,300 per year

Net Price: $8,490 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 30.72%

4. Florida International University

Miami, FL • Private

In-State Tuition

$6,556

Cost of Attendance

19,434

Website

www.fiu.edu

Address

11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $41,500 per year

Net Price: $8,311 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 58.56%
SAT Average - 1185
ACT Average - 25
Most Popular Majors
Business
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering

5. Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • Private

In-State Tuition

$9,992

Cost of Attendance

22,430

Website

https://www.purdue.edu

Address

Hovde Hall of Administration, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2040

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $49,000 per year

Net Price: $12,527 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 57.98%
SAT Average - 1309
ACT Average - 29
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering

6. Inter American University of Puerto Rico San German

San German, PR • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,940

Cost of Attendance

14,322

Website

www.sg.inter.edu/

Address

P. O. Box 5100, San German, PR 00683

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $19,300 per year

Net Price: $8,960 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 45.25%

7. University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez

Mayaguez, PR • Private

In-State Tuition

$4,094

Cost of Attendance

14,302

Website

https://www.uprm.edu

Address

Call Box 9000, Mayaguez, PR 00681

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $38,700 per year

Net Price: $8,584 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 63.51%

8. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA • Private

In-State Tuition

$12,424

Cost of Attendance

28,501

Website

www.gatech.edu

Address

225 North Avenue, N.W., Atlanta, GA 30332

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $66,100 per year

Net Price: $14,927 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 21.53%
SAT Average - 1465
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Business
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering

9. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

In-State Tuition

$5,656

Cost of Attendance

21,623

Website

www.fsu.edu

Address

222 South Copeland Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1470

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $39,700 per year

Net Price: $10,744 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 36.78%
SAT Average - 1289
ACT Average - 28
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering

10. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM • Private

In-State Tuition

$7,770

Cost of Attendance

21,244

Website

www.nmt.edu

Address

801 Leroy Place, Socorro, NM 87801

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $49,000 per year

Net Price: $14,236 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 23.16%
SAT Average - 1264
ACT Average - 26
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Mathematics

Top 10 Hardest Universities To Get Into For Mechanical Engineers

Some people like a challenge. Well, we challenge you to get into one of these schools. It's not going to be easy. We know this based on these institutions' admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted and mean earnings of students 6 years after admission.

1. California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA • Private

Admissions Rate

7%

SAT Average

1,566

Website

www.caltech.edu

Address

1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91125

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $68,500 per year

Net Price: $23,820 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 6.62%
SAT Average - 1566
ACT Average - 36
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Physics
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mathematics

2. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

Admissions Rate

8%

SAT Average

1,508

Website

www.northwestern.edu

Address

633 Clark St, Evanston, IL 60208

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $71,900 per year

Net Price: $24,840 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 8.47%
SAT Average - 1508
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Engineering

3. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

Admissions Rate

6%

SAT Average

1,512

Website

www.columbia.edu

Address

535 West 116th Street, New York, NY 10027

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $77,900 per year

Net Price: $22,637 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 5.91%
SAT Average - 1512
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

4. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

Admissions Rate

11%

SAT Average

1,513

Website

www.jhu.edu

Address

3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218-2688

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $68,000 per year

Net Price: $30,701 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 11.48%
SAT Average - 1513
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Biomedical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Business

5. Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • Private

Admissions Rate

17%

SAT Average

1,507

Website

www.cmu.edu/

Address

5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3890

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $84,000 per year

Net Price: $32,674 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 17.12%
SAT Average - 1507
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Electrical Engineering
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering

6. Stanford University

Stanford, CA • Private

Admissions Rate

4%

SAT Average

1,497

Website

www.stanford.edu/

Address

450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305-2061

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $92,800 per year

Net Price: $12,265 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 4.36%
SAT Average - 1497
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering

7. Cornell University

Ithaca, NY • Private

Admissions Rate

11%

SAT Average

1,471

Website

www.cornell.edu

Address

300 Day Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $76,300 per year

Net Price: $30,494 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 10.61%
SAT Average - 1471
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

8. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA • Private

Admissions Rate

22%

SAT Average

1,465

Website

www.gatech.edu

Address

225 North Avenue, N.W., Atlanta, GA 30332

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $66,100 per year

Net Price: $14,927 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 21.53%
SAT Average - 1465
ACT Average - 33
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Business
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering

9. Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • Private

Admissions Rate

10%

SAT Average

1,514

Website

www.vanderbilt.edu

Address

2101 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37240

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $61,900 per year

Net Price: $20,253 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 9.61%
SAT Average - 1514
ACT Average - 34
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mathematics
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering

10. Boston University

Boston, MA • Private

Admissions Rate

22%

SAT Average

1,420

Website

www.bu.edu

Address

One Silber Way, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02215

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $52,800 per year

Net Price: $30,729 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 22.09%
SAT Average - 1420
ACT Average - 32
Most Popular Majors
Business
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Mathematics

Top 10 Easier To Apply Universities For Mechanical Engineers

Why make getting a job harder on yourself than it has to be? With these colleges, you're sure to be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores and average salary of students 6 years after graduation in order to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into.

1. Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR • Private

Admissions Rate

96%

SAT Average

1,139

Website

https://www.oit.edu

Address

3201 Campus Drive, Klamath Falls, OR 97601-8801

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $52,900 per year

Net Price: $17,083 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 95.85%
SAT Average - 1139
ACT Average - 23
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Engineering

2. Saint Martin's University

Lacey, WA • Private

Admissions Rate

96%

SAT Average

1,111

Website

https://www.stmartin.edu

Address

5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503-1297

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $41,000 per year

Net Price: $21,826 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 95.63%
SAT Average - 1111
ACT Average - 21
Most Popular Majors
Business
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Mathematics

3. Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH • Private

Admissions Rate

88%

SAT Average

1,111

Website

www.csuohio.edu/

Address

2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115-2214

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $37,200 per year

Net Price: $15,124 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 88.34%
SAT Average - 1111
ACT Average - 22
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Civil Engineering

4. Alabama A & M University

Normal, AL • Private

Admissions Rate

90%

SAT Average

957

Website

www.aamu.edu/

Address

4900 Meridian Street, Normal, AL 35762

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $28,400 per year

Net Price: $14,444 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 89.86%
SAT Average - 957
ACT Average - 18
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Engineering

5. University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME • Private

Admissions Rate

85%

SAT Average

1,050

Website

www.usm.maine.edu

Address

96 Falmouth St, Portland, ME 04104

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $35,600 per year

Net Price: $12,180 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 85.43%
SAT Average - 1050
ACT Average - 22
Most Popular Majors
Business
Engineering Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Industrial Technology
Mathematics

6. Purdue University Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, IN • Private

Admissions Rate

97%

SAT Average

1,080

Website

www.pfw.edu

Address

2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $33,100 per year

Net Price: $11,404 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 96.61%
SAT Average - 1080
ACT Average - 22
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Electrical Engineering
Engineering

7. Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA • Private

Admissions Rate

87%

SAT Average

1,093

Website

www.odu.edu

Address

5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $38,300 per year

Net Price: $15,680 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 86.99%
SAT Average - 1093
ACT Average - 21
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering

8. Alcorn State University

Alcorn State, MS • Private

Admissions Rate

89%

SAT Average

1,026

Website

www.alcorn.edu

Address

1000 ASU Dr Ste 359, Alcorn State, MS 39096-7500

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $26,900 per year

Net Price: $14,352 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 89.31%
SAT Average - 1026
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Business
Mathematics
Engineering Technology

9. Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud, MN • Private

Admissions Rate

86%

SAT Average

1,086

Website

www.stcloudstate.edu

Address

720 Fourth Ave. South, Saint Cloud, MN 56301-4498

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $38,000 per year

Net Price: $14,449 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 86.20%
SAT Average - 1086
ACT Average - 21
Most Popular Majors
Engineering Technology
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Industrial Technology
Electrical Engineering

10. Midwestern State University

Wichita Falls, TX • Private

Admissions Rate

71%

SAT Average

1,033

Website

www.msutexas.edu

Address

3410 Taft Blvd, Wichita Falls, TX 76308-2099

Median Earnings 6 years after Graduation: $42,400 per year

Net Price: $10,764 per year

Admissions
Acceptance Rate - 71.07%
SAT Average - 1033
ACT Average - 20
Most Popular Majors
Business
Mechanical Engineering
Engineering Technology
Mathematics

Average Mechanical Engineer Salary by Education Level

Mechanical engineers with a Doctorate degree earn more than those without, at $88,203 annually. With a Masters degree, mechanical engineers earn a median annual income of $82,626 compared to $74,718 for mechanical engineers with an Bachelors degree.

Mechanical Engineer Education LevelMechanical Engineer Salary
Master's Degree$82,626
Bachelor's Degree$74,718
Doctorate Degree$88,203

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