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Mechanical engineering has contributed significantly to the many advancements we enjoy today. If you love learning about mechanics, observing motion, or developing designs, an online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering fuels your curious and innovative mind. Along with other disciplines, this versatile branch of engineering is responsible for the development of state-of-the-art vehicles, aircraft, and industrial machinery.
Mechanical engineers design, build, and control devices, machines, processes, and systems using the principles of Mathematics and Physics, among other disciplines. Today’s industrialized society is built on foundational skills, which online Mechanical Engineering programs offer.
The Labor Statistics Bureau sees a 10% growth in this specific engineering job within the next decade.
Quick Summarization
A mechanical engineer designs highly complex tools, engines, mechanical systems, and other mechanical products. This expertise takes years and intensive training, but earning an online bachelor’s degree is a step in the right direction! Upon completing a Mechanical Engineering online bachelor program, aspiring professionals become qualified for careers that fit their interests and professional goals.
Methodology
Prospective students considering a Mechanical Engineering degree should review our list of the best online bachelor programs! Each online degree was selected using these criteria:
- Offers learning formats such as entirely online or combined with in-person classes,
- Features a Mechanical Engineering program curriculum designed by mechanical engineers and industry experts,
- Incorporates foundational mechanical engineering knowledge that graduates can apply to the workplace,
- May provide specializations in Mechanical Engineering to give students a broad range of career possibilities,
- Complements mechanical engineering tasks with both technical and soft skills,
- Provides online learners with access to their mechanical engineering courses through their convenient and cutting-edge virtual platforms,
- Offers federal aid and financial assistance to undergraduates as well as transfer credit programs, thereby reducing tuition and fees,
- Offers opportunities to network with mechanical engineering professionals,
- Awarded accreditations by a regional accrediting institution that supports high standards in teaching.
Our Methodology page provides an overview of how we select the best schools and programs.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
Arizona State University
Arizona State University runs the online Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering degree program. With this degree, students can pursue jobs in robotics, automotive research, and more, and land the most diverse jobs. After all, many modern industries rely heavily on this specialty of engineering.
To name some, here are the industries that are always in need of mechanical engineers:
- Transportation
- Aerospace
- Technology
- Power
- Construction
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering has a rigorous curriculum covering mechanical design, energy transfer, and sensors. In addition to learning these principles, you will also learn how to apply them to real-world engineering problems.
Some of the coursework to expect in this Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering degree are:
- Basic computer programming
- Fundamental concepts in fluid engineering
- Construction techniques
- Thermodynamics
- Dynamics of physical systems
- Technical drawing conventions
These mechanical engineering courses are designed to give you a broad perspective on all aspects of the engineering field. During this course, you will study the energy and momentum principles governing particles.
University of North Dakota
In the Upper Midwest area, only the University of North Dakota offers the online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. They have an ABET accreditation, which most employers prefer when hiring engineering graduates.
One thing that makes this online degree stand out is its cost. Unlike most accredited online Mechanical Engineering degrees, this one is the most affordable. The cost of online tuition is affordable no matter where the student lives. In addition, the Mechanical Engineering program provides financial assistance to more than two-thirds of its students.
Most of your courses are offered online, but you’ll need to visit campus for some of them. After all, hands-on activities expand and apply your online learning. This is the best time to interact with your instructors and peers engagingly.
The University of North Dakota has a club called The Society of Distance Engineering Students, open to all online engineering students. You can study and collaborate with online and on-campus students despite the physical distance between you and your classmates.
You do not have to attend asynchronous classes simultaneously every day. With this flexible format, you can learn anywhere at any time if you must balance work, family, and other commitments. You’ll be able to learn mechanical engineering from anywhere through activities such as online simulations, virtual libraries, video content, or posted lectures. They even have discussion boards, chat rooms, and polls to maximize learning.
Indiana State University
Indiana State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology that integrates design with management. Concerning the design area, you can expect to learn how to design machines, products, and mechanical tools. On the other hand, the management aspects prepare students for managing people, resources, and manufacturing systems.
Mechanical engineering technology is taught both theoretically and practically throughout the program, as well as providing students with hands-on experience in mechanical design working with computer-aided design. A mechanical engineering degree prepares graduates for design, manufacturing, installation, evaluation, management, or technical sales careers.
Here are the courses:
- Applied Statics
- Fluid Power Technology
- Solid Modeling and Design
- Applied Mechanisms
- Engineering Analysis
- Fluid Power Technology Laboratory
- Power Systems
Oregon State University
Oregon State University has an online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree. In this program, you’ll acquire traditional mechanical and computational engineering skills. To anticipate issues and quickly prototype to solve complex engineering problems, you’ll also learn to use computational models and algorithms.
Oregon State Ecampus consistently ranks among the nation’s top 10 online education providers. Their on-campus students also earn a diploma just like their e-campus counterparts.
Some of their course topics include the following:
- Materials science
- Engineering computation
- Mechanical component design
- Thermodynamics
- Design engineering and problem-solving
- Engineering graphics and 3D modeling
With this online mechanical engineering program, students can access helpful resources such as success coaching, library services, tutoring services, and career guidance. All these can improve your online learning experience with Oregon State University.
The Mechanical Engineering degree online focuses on robotics, design, mechanics, manufacturing, materials, thermal science, and control. Furthermore, you’ll receive computer science, simulation, algorithms, data structures, and programming coursework in addition to mechanical engineering courses.
This program ends with a capstone project in which real-world engineering problems will be solved using engineering methodologies. Completing this project will teach you how to plan projects, design products, select and train personnel, and develop long-term policies and strategies.
The University of Alabama
The University of Alabama’s primarily online Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering is convenient for anyone who’s always mobile. It comes with a rigorous curriculum and is identical to its in-person counterparts. This program will prepare you for a challenging and rewarding career full of challenges and rewards.
Among the most versatile engineering degrees, a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering is considered to be among the broadest.
Here are the courses you need to study in this online mechanical engineering degree:
- Engineering Foundations
- Statics
- Small-Scale Engineering Graphics
- Thermodynamics I
- Dynamics
- Engineering Materials I
- Fluid Mechanics
With this program, you will learn complex machine design and manufacturing processes. The majority of courses are taught online, except for three lab courses, which require some face-to-face interaction. For these, you must attend their Tuscaloosa, Alabama campus.
You can study the design of components, machines, and systems in a process as a student. After graduating with this degree, most students pursue careers in various fields, including power, automotive, electronics, bioengineering, robotics, textiles, aerospace, manufacturing, and research and development. Furthermore, you can pursue a master’s degree in engineering or related studies.
Industries that Mechanical Engineers Work in
Automobile Industry
Demonstrating one of the fastest growth rates globally is the automobile industry, which provides numerous work opportunities for graduates of the best mechanical engineering programs.
According to Zippia, the manufacturing of motor cars and their components employs 923,000 Americans, while auto dealers employ 1,251,600. Several of the world’s leading automakers are also investing heavily in research and development to develop cutting-edge automotive solutions. Mechanical engineering professionals can work in this ever-growing field.
Construction Industry
Another industry in need of mechanical engineers is the construction industry. Mechanical engineers must pay close attention to detail when working on large construction projects. In construction, they can work in the design and building of structures, installation of heating and cooling systems, or create foundations for houses and other projects.
Aerospace Industry
The US aerospace industry—a minefield of discoveries and inventions—is the largest in the world. The Aerospace Industries Association estimates that the aerospace industry generated $874 billion in revenues in 2020. From cutting-edge satellites to skyrockets, this industry has seen an enormous transformation. Due to these, employers are in demand more than ever for mechanical engineers with degrees from top universities.
Defense Industry
The military industry in the US offers mechanical engineers positions in the areas of design and development. Many defense tasks are made possible Through 3D modeling and numerous other fully automated techniques. Mechanical engineers are responsible for ensuring that all defense equipment is structured and designed to operate on land, sea, and air.
Power Industry
Everywhere needs the power to live or operate their businesses successfully. And with this, the world is propelled by the labor of mechanical engineers. Energy is produced and supplied by them. The process could involve the creation of new long-distance grid connections. The power industry is also currently busy developing other sources of energy like solar, nuclear, and many others.
Railway Industry
Mechanical engineering is a pillar in railway development and innovation. Mechanical engineers are in charge of everything related to railways. They develop railway structures, systems, tracks, and tunnels. Mechanical engineers work in this industry, especially in urban settings where railways are more common. New solutions are needed to handle record passenger numbers, build high-speed rails, and provide faster propulsion methods.
Biomedical Industry
If you love engineering and medical technologies, you should be a mechanical engineer in the biomedical field. Mechanical engineers who work in the biomedical field transform lives. To enhance the quality of life for injured and disabled individuals, scientists are developing better, more realistic mechanical body parts. Mechanical engineers are also currently busy innovating medical robots, pacemakers, or artificial valves for instance.
Chemical Industry
The chemical sector needs mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineers are responsible for ensuring dependability and reliability in the chemical industry, as well as providing technical support when needed in process areas. In terms of technical assistance, the company offers several fully automated production tools and equipment.
Materials and Metals Industry
In the materials and metals sector, they often hire mechanical engineers. They primarily work on the design, testing, and development of mechanical systems. They usually work on the complete maintenance lifecycle of a manufacturing plant’s entire systems, and check their fans, gas turbines, valves, and pipes.
Electronics Industry
Designing a wide variety of machines that generate energy is primarily the responsibility of mechanical engineers, who are part of the electronics industry.
Reasons to Study Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering produces professionals adept at anything mechanical.
Being mostly hands-on, mechanical engineering may offer the chance to actively participate in projects. This practical experience may improve your comprehension of how the intricate systems in this world function, enabling you to deconstruct them into smaller and easier-to-understand parts. Mechanical engineers could have access to a wider range of technology maintenance abilities by learning how to identify and address issues in these systems.
Mechanical engineers have access to many career pathways.
Mechanical engineering consists of a variety of sub-disciplines like aerospace engineering, marine engineering, and automobile engineering. By graduating from a mechanical engineering program, you’ll have broad job opportunities at your disposal. Depending on your choice, your profession could also open more ways to specialize in specific engineering fields in mechanical aspects. Whether you prefer to work in the office or in actual plants, jobs are waiting for you.
Mechanical engineers get opportunities for career growth or advancement.
The everyday lives of individuals may be more significantly impacted by mechanical engineering. As you advance in the profession, you might learn about fascinating topics. Mechanical engineers may have the chance to become fully versed in manufacturing procedures which will enable them to focus on their interests and professional objectives.
Mechanical Engineers can take the “generalist” career path.
While there’s nothing wrong with specializing in specific fields, mechanical engineering programs allow you to be a jack of all trades or become a generalist. This allows you to grow as a multi-talented individual. You will be able to expand your knowledge in many different areas while studying this degree, including chemistry, mathematics, physics, computers, power structures, and electronics. Thus, you will increase your general knowledge as well as your expertise in your primary subject.
Mechanical Engineering satisfies the curious and the creative.
Creativity is crucial for mechanical engineers. You have the chance to develop your creative thinking abilities through mechanical engineering. You can think independently and craft original answers to any issues you may face may be enhanced as a result. Additionally, you might get the chance to experiment, which can foster your imaginative inclination and inspire new projects and ideas.
Your general education in Mechanical Engineering degree programs may prepare you to specialize in any area of technological expertise. No matter what subset of mechanical engineering you’re interested in pursuing, it will allow you to do what you love. It pays to choose online programs that truly interest you and allow you to be better in your craft.
Mechanical Engineering majors value continuous learning.
Mechanical engineering is a broad discipline that covers all branches of technology and has endless growth potential. Studying this branch of engineering may provide you with the chance to keep adding to your knowledge base and skill set because there is always something new to learn. As technology advances, becoming a mechanical engineer may provide you with the tools you need to investigate novel concepts.
Mechanical Engineering is all about developing solutions.
Many engineers study mechanical engineering in hopes of being able to develop solutions to current issues and repetitive hurdles in society. You might get the chance to learn a cutting-edge new manufacturing technique or you might develop become an authority in a specific area of engineering to solve issues with your existing projects and issues. As you study mechanical engineering, you’ll end up acquiring new skill sets that will contribute to improving many situations related to engineering.
Mechanical engineers contribute to society.
Everyone aspires to contribute or impact the society in a good way. As a mechanical engineer, you can change the world with perseverance, commitment, hard work, and mechanical engineering knowledge.
No matter what specific field of mechanical engineering you work for, you can contribute something and make people’s lives better. It would be impossible for people to have high-tech gadgets without mechanical engineers since future technologies are primarily developed by mechanical engineers. Be a part of this revolving evolution in humanity and life.
Tips to Become a Mechanical Engineer
Earn a bachelor’s degree.
The first step in becoming a mechanical engineer is to acquire an online bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering. Most employers require mechanical engineers to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree. Engineering degrees are available in mechanical, civil, electrical, and general fields.
It would be beneficial to choose a program that comes with the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology accreditation. It is a licensure exam for graduates of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and other programs. During your bachelor’s degree, you may choose to specialize in one sub-field or learn electives that are helpful in your mechanical engineering journey.
Set goals.
This next tip is a no-brainer and applies to many things in life. Setting goals is crucial for mechanical engineers to succeed in both their personal and professional lives. Setting objectives gives you direction, concentration, and motivation—essential for personal development and career advancement.
Develop technical skills.
As a mechanical engineer, you’ll use computers frequently, so it makes sense to become knowledgeable in related IT and computer science fields. While you develop all your mechanical skills and knowledge, your technical skills will also grow. This allows you to be a good asset in any company you work for.
Consider business skills.
Aside from mechanical and technical skills, business skills are also paramount to succeed in mechanical engineering. In addition to mechanical engineering-specific talents, having a solid understanding of business fundamentals may make you stand out to companies. Engineering businesses are looking for qualified engineers who know how total production costs impact the choices they must make. Understanding income statements and balance sheets could offer you an advantage over competitors.
Gain experience.
Mechanical engineers need to gain experience for their careers to flourish. Most employers would love to hire someone who has gained hands-on experience. Do internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or shadow professionals during your undergraduate degree to develop your Mechanical Engineering skills. Not only will you graduate with an excellent diploma, but you will also gain valuable practical experience. Your experience can make or break your future employment, so acquiring as many as early in your mechanical engineering journey is best.
Get mentored.
Being mentored has always been proven effective if you want to become successful in your career. Collaborating with someone with more industry experience when you’re just getting started can be beneficial. This individual may shape your job path. To find a mentor to help you, check with the HR department at your employment or internship, join engineering societies, or make connections on social media.
Prepare a strong CV.
Believe it or not, many employers create their first impression through the CV or resume that you send. Ensure that your resume highlights the relevant skills for each engineering position you apply for. Include relevant work history and education in your highlight list. To assist your resume go passed automated systems, make sure to include it with keywords and industry-specific terminology.
Build your network.
It’s imperative to broaden your network as early and as much as possible. You might find your next excellent job through your school’s career support resources, mechanical engineering clubs, and networking events. Keeping in touch with old contacts and seeking new ones is key to growing your network. To stay current on the latest methodologies and technologies, it’s important to continue studying even after landing a job.
Join internships.
Students studying mechanical engineering must do an internship as part of their degree requirements at several institutions and universities. Even though this is not a requirement at your school, an internship might still benefit your career. Internships with engineering corporations, manufacturing businesses, or research and development groups are frequently available. You may put your knowledge to use and pick up practical skills while working as an intern for an experienced engineer.
Grow your communication skills.
Employers search for applicants who can effectively communicate their ideas to clients and coworkers who may not be familiar with mechanical engineering vocabulary or systems. With exceptional communication skills, you can be one step higher than most applicants in mechanical engineering. You might also be required to write reports, so you must be skilled at written communication. Presentation skills can also be useful as you communicate reports about mechanical engineering projects and other data.
Consider pursuing higher education.
After completing their undergraduate studies, mechanical engineers can pursue their master’s degrees. Some universities offer a combined curriculum to get both degrees, and this accelerated pathway typically lasts five years to complete.
Even while you can get entry-level positions with a bachelor’s degree, getting a master’s in mechanical engineering can help you learn more about the field. You might be able to find additional employment opportunities or have a higher earning potential with an advanced degree. To decide whether to pursue a master’s degree, research various programs and universities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mechanical Engineering?
Mechanical engineering is a field of science and technology that examines the procedures used in creating, producing, and maintaining any machine-based system. As it concentrates on the general information surrounding all branches of mechanical activity, engineering science at this level is rather wide.
Plumbing, elevators, heating and cooling systems, and other technological components may all be included in mechanical systems. There are various reasons why students study mechanical engineering, including its adaptability and wide range of career options after graduation.
How do you study an online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering?
You will be taught through online lectures, seminars, discussions with peers, tutorials, laboratory sessions, design classes, and hands-on workshops, similar to most other engineering subjects. In addition to exam-based testing, you will be evaluated continually through reports, computer exercises, lab work, and essays.
Mechanical engineers will be entrusted with estimating project prices and time frames, producing manuals, and advancing and upgrading new technologies. Hence, there are diverse coursework that will be integrated into the curriculum. After graduation, you can prepare to sit for the engineering licensure exam.
Is it a good decision to pursue Mechanical Engineering?
The average compensation for mechanical engineers is $91,554, according to Indeed, and jobs needing a degree in mechanical engineering frequently have competitive pay rates. Additionally, depending on the jobs they take, mechanical engineers frequently qualify for commissions and incentives.
Note that many other factors can influence salaries and pay rates for mechanical engineers. For instance, urban settings or established companies may offer higher rates. Taking an online Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering is a sound decision if you want to earn well, pursue your passion, and help societies and industries.
Key Points to Ponder
- Mechanical Engineering involves designing, producing, testing, and maintaining machines. It allows you to have a successful profession that benefits society and many industries.
- Given the wide range of employment options available in mechanical engineering, you might pursue your interest in machine equipment, robots, shipping, electronics, energy, elevators, escalators, cars, aeronautics, or nanotechnology.
- Lectures, laboratory work, capstone projects, seminars, tutorials, design classes, and hands-on workshops will be used to teach the subject as most other engineering courses are. In addition to exam-based testing, you will be evaluated continually through reports, computer exercises, lab work, and essays.
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