Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

The degree requires either completion of a research thesis or a project-based practicum. The latter is often completed in conjunction with local industry, providing students with both enrichment and exposure to a variety of companies in the Boston area. The choice lies with our students and depends upon their career goals and interests. Our graduates go directly to work in industry and government laboratories. Some may also elect to continue their training toward a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering, applied mechanics, or a related field.

Accepting applications for Fall 2024: GRE is not needed from applicants to all master’s programs (except LEAP) who have earned or will earn, a 4-year degree from a U.S. institution. For these applicants, not submitting GRE scores will not have a negative impact on the evaluation of your application.

Non-Thesis Option

Ideal for students wishing to complete the MS degree in 1–1.5 years and use their advanced degree as a foundation for a career in industry R&D, design and analysis, testing, consulting, management, or sales.

The course planning sheet is similar to the thesis option. Students will take two 500-700 level graduate courses in Mechanical Engineering to replace the 2 research courses. 

Can be completed in 1 year if a student takes four courses each semester.

Thesis Option

Ideal for students wishing to experience an in-depth, focused exploration of a current research area while making an original intellectual contribution. This path prepares students for research-oriented careers as well as careers in design and analysis, testing, consulting, and management. 

Students must identify a research advisor and a suitable thesis project (in consultation with the research advisor) and then defend the thesis before a committee of faculty upon completion of the thesis, prior to completing the program.

The current research interests of the ME faculty are listed on our website.  

Students are encouraged to begin the process of identifying a research advisor and thesis topic prior to matriculating, and as early as during the application process. However, students are not required to have secured a research advisor or thesis topic prior to matriculating. 

For information on specific course requirements, please see the program planning sheet.

Late Entry Accelerated Program (LEAP) for Non-Engineering Graduates

LEAP enables students with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, business, fine arts, or education to earn a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Photonics, Manufacturing, or Systems Engineering. LEAP is designed for individuals who seek new career opportunities but may lack the required background in engineering.

Learn more.

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Internship Program Option: Engineering with Practice

Master’s students may add the optional “with Engineering Practice” designation to their degree by completing an approved internship in their field of study. The program option recognizes the power of combining rigorous academic coursework with supervised real-world research or industrial applications. Participating students add value to their academic experience with a related internship that enables them to both develop and apply their technical, project management, and leadership skills.

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“My internship allowed me to apply everything I learned in the classroom to the work environment. It added value to my resume/CV, and served as a platform to launch my career.”

Master of Science Alum Anish Shah