Affordable Universities in USA for MS in Mechanical Engineering

USA is renowned for its world-class education, innovative teaching, and cutting-edge research facilities. US universities consistently rank among the best globally, offering diverse specializations and strong industry connections. International students choose US universities for their master’s programs due to high academic standards, extensive practical experience opportunities, and a robust job market. 

On the positive side, working in a multicultural setting provides opportunities to network with people from different parts of the globe and self-development. Moreover, students are offered other forms of remunerations that enables them study in the USA such as scholarships and assistantships. All in all, education in the USA empowers students with knowledge and contacts for desirable professions. Read the below blog to know about the affordable universities in the USA that provides MS in Mechanical Engineering .

Why choose universities in the USA for an MS in Mechanical Engineering ?

There are several reasons why students should consider US universities in their pursuit of an MS in Mechanical Engineering. American educational facilities are respected worldwide due to their stringent academic programs, effective educational infrastructure, and skilled educators. The academic qualification one acquires when obtaining this degree from a university in the United States is recognized all over the world and employment opportunities are offered in various fields.

American universities focus on the technical aspect and skills, offering students opportunities to engage in the process of engineering design, robotics, materials science, and more. This emphasis on practicality guarantees that students intent on getting an MS in Mechanical Engineering are ready for vitalities in the market

Additionally, there is a large variety of specializations in the US, meaning students will be able to easily find a specialization that is in line with their choice of interest and career path. The fact that students, post graduates and faculty members of the United States Universities discussed their ideas in inter disciplinary groups and developed numerous networking opportunities beneficial for a more enriched learning environment and professional development.

Particularly, scholarships and assistantships available for students can help to alleviate the cost of studying in the US and get an MS in Mechanical Engineering. Further, many cultural and social activities available in US universities contribute positively to the growth of the student by availing them the opportunity to experience a world view 

Top Ten affordable universities in the USA for an MS in Mechanical Engineering

Here are the top ten mechanical engineering universities in the USA along with key details about each institution

1. Iowa State University

Iowa State University, located in Ames, Iowa, is known for its strong engineering programs and vibrant research community. The MS in Mechanical Engineering program is renowned for its robust curriculum and excellent faculty.

Tuition Fees: Approximately $26,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Around $10,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships are available.
Cost of Living: Moderate, with Ames being a relatively affordable city.
Specializations: Robotics, Thermal Sciences, Systems and Control, Materials Processing, and Design.
Faculty & Research: Strong research focus with experienced faculty involved in cutting-edge projects.
Career Prospects: High employment rates in aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors.

2. University of Arkansas

Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the University of Arkansas offers a top-tier MS in Mechanical Engineering program with a focus on innovation and practical applications. Its affordable tuition and excellent faculty make it an attractive choice for students.

Tuition Fees: About $22,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Approximately $11,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Assistantships, fellowships, and grants are available.
Cost of Living: Low, Fayetteville is a cost-effective place to live.
Specializations: Thermal-Fluid Sciences, Dynamics, Control Systems, and Materials Engineering.
Faculty & Research: Active research in areas like nanotechnology and energy systems.
Career Prospects: Graduates find jobs in manufacturing, research labs, and tech firms.

3. San Jose State University

San Jose State University, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers an MS in Mechanical Engineering program with strong industry ties and a focus on practical experience. The university’s location provides unique opportunities for internships and job placements.

Tuition Fees: Roughly $17,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Living Expenses: Around $14,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Limited scholarships; work-study and assistantships available.
Cost of Living: Higher due to location in Silicon Valley.
Specializations: Mechatronics, Aerospace, Computational Mechanics, and Sustainable Energy.
Faculty & Research: Faculty engaged in industry collaborations and applied research.
Career Prospects: Excellent opportunities in tech industries, especially in Silicon Valley.

4. University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)

UTEP, located in El Paso, Texas, provides an affordable MS in Mechanical Engineering program with a strong emphasis on research and industry collaboration. The university’s diverse environment and comprehensive curriculum are key highlights.

Tuition Fees: Approximately $14,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Around $9,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Various scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid available.
Cost of Living: Low, El Paso offers an affordable lifestyle.
Specializations: Energy Systems, Manufacturing, Materials Science, and Thermal-Fluid Sciences.
Faculty & Research: Faculty involved in interdisciplinary research with strong industry ties.
Career Prospects: Good placement rates in manufacturing and defense sectors.

5. Cleveland State University

Cleveland State University in Ohio offers an MS in Mechanical Engineering program that combines rigorous academics with practical experience. The university’s urban location provides ample opportunities for internships and industry partnerships.

Tuition Fees: About $19,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Approximately $12,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships available.
Cost of Living: Moderate, Cleveland offers a reasonably low cost of living.
Specializations: Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Biomechanics, and Design.
Faculty & Research: Faculty engaged in significant research projects and industry partnerships.
Career Prospects: Strong connections with local industries for internships and jobs.

6. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, this university offers an MS in Mechanical Engineering program with a focus on hands-on learning and research. It is known for its affordability and strong ties to the engineering industry.

Tuition Fees: Around $15,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: About $10,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships are available.
Cost of Living: Low, Rapid City is affordable for students.
Specializations: Robotics, Sustainable Energy, Advanced Manufacturing, and Materials Engineering.
Faculty & Research: Focus on practical, hands-on research with faculty expertise in various fields.
Career Prospects: High employment rates in engineering firms and research institutions.

7. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota, located in Grand Forks, offers an MS in Mechanical Engineering program with a strong emphasis on aerospace and energy systems. Its affordable tuition and dedicated faculty make it an excellent choice for students.

Tuition Fees: Approximately $18,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Around $11,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Various scholarships, assistantships, and grants available.
Cost of Living: Low, Grand Forks offers an affordable living environment.
Specializations: Aerospace Engineering, Energy Systems, Robotics, and Materials Science.
Faculty & Research: Strong research focus with active faculty involvement in innovative projects.
Career Prospects: Good job opportunities in aerospace and energy sectors.

8. Missouri University of Science and Technology

Located in Rolla, Missouri, this university is renowned for its engineering programs and research facilities. The MS in Mechanical Engineering program offers a comprehensive curriculum and excellent career prospects.

Tuition Fees: About $23,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Approximately $12,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Merit-based scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships available.
Cost of Living: Moderate, Rolla is an affordable city for students.
Specializations: Control Systems, Manufacturing, Energy Conversion, and Materials Engineering.
Faculty & Research: Faculty involved in extensive research with numerous publications and projects.
Career Prospects: Strong placement rates in manufacturing, automotive, and defense industries.

9. Wichita State University

Wichita State University in Kansas offers an affordable MS in Mechanical Engineering program with a strong emphasis on research and practical experience. The university’s strategic location provides great opportunities for internships and jobs.

Tuition Fees: Around $15,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Approximately $10,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid options are available.
Cost of Living: Low, Wichita is cost-effective for students.
Specializations: Aerospace Engineering, Biomechanics, Materials Science, and Renewable Energy.
Faculty & Research: Active research in collaboration with local industries and government agencies.
Career Prospects: High employability in aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.

10. New Mexico State University

New Mexico State University, located in Las Cruces, offers a highly affordable MS in Mechanical Engineering program. The university is known for its research facilities and strong industry connections.

Tuition Fees: About $17,000 per year for international students.
Living Expenses: Around $9,000 per year.
Scholarships & Aid: Various scholarships, assistantships, and grants available.
Cost of Living: Low, Las Cruces is an affordable city.
Specializations: Thermal-Fluid Sciences, Robotics, Control Systems, and Materials Engineering.
Faculty & Research: Faculty engaged in innovative research with substantial industry ties.
Career Prospects: Good placement rates in manufacturing, energy, and research sectors.

These universities offer quality education in Mechanical Engineering at an affordable cost, making them attractive options for international students.

Admission process for an MS in US 

The admission process for an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the US involves several steps and requires meeting specific eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for admission, prospective students must hold a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Many universities require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. International students must also demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Admission Process:

1. Research and Shortlist Programs: Engineering students should start by researching various universities and their MS programs in Mechanical Engineering. Consider factors like faculty expertise, research facilities, specializations offered, and tuition fees.
2. Prepare for Standardized Tests: Most US universities require GRE scores for admission. Mechanical engineering graduates should prepare for and take the GRE, aiming for a competitive score.
3. Gather Required Documents: Applicants need to submit several documents, including:
   • Transcripts from previous institutions
   • Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
   • A statement of purpose outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing a master’s degree
   • A resume or CV detailing academic and professional experience
4. Apply Online: Engineering students must apply through the university’s online application portal, ensuring all required documents and application fees are submitted before the deadline.
5. Interview (if applicable): Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
6. Financial Aid and Scholarships: Research and apply for scholarships, assistantships, and other financial aid options to help manage tuition and living expenses.
7. Wait for Decision: After submitting applications, students must wait for the universities to review their applications and make decisions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid to study an MS in the USA 

Scholarships and financial aid for MS in the USA are both numerous and easily accessible by international students. These are everybody’s financial assistances which enable students to cater for the expenses incurred in the course of their studies and this also applies to mechanical engineering students.

1. University-Specific Scholarships: International students get scholarships from many universities including those pursuing mechanical engineering. These scholarships are available and most of them are based on merit: intelligence, research abilities, and leaders. Others, such as the Global Excellence Scholarship offered by the University of Minnesota and the International Student Excellence Scholarship offered at the University of Arizona.

2. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantships are some of the most popular types of the Financial aids that helps students to study without facing heavy charges. Assistantships are of two types namely teaching assistantships or Teaching Assistant (TA) and research assistantships or Research Assistant (RA). These positions do not only cater for the needs of the students in terms of providing them with an allowance for their living expenses but also cover tuition payments for them. Assistantships can be particularly advantageous or students in mechanical engineering since this affords opportunities to teach or engage in research as they meet their tuition fees.

3. External Scholarships: International students on the other hand can find a lot of external scholarships to apply for. These scholarships are provided by funding institutions, social foundations, and state offices. Examples include, Fulbright foreign student program, and Japan/World Bank graduate scholarship program. These scholarships may include those for tuition fees, living expenses, and other related charges, and this means that students, irrespective of their course of study, mechanical engineering students inclusive, do not have to struggle to finance their studies.

4. Fellowships: Fellowships are similar to scholarships but are often more prestigious and competitive. They are usually awarded based on academic achievement and research potential. Fellowships provide financial support without any work requirements, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies and research. Examples include the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and the AAUW International Fellowship for women.

5. On-Campus Employment: International students are often allowed to work part-time on campus. Jobs can range from library assistants to lab technicians. These positions help students earn extra income to cover daily expenses while also gaining work experience. Mechanical engineering students can find relevant on-campus jobs that align with their field of study.

6. Country-Specific Scholarships: Some countries offer scholarships to their citizens for studying abroad. For instance, the Indian government provides scholarships like the Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships and the Tata Scholarships. These scholarships help students from specific countries fund their education in the USA.

7. Private Loans: While not the first choice for many, private loans can be an option to bridge the financial gap. Some US-based lenders offer student loans to international students with a creditworthy US co-signer. These loans can help students cover tuition and living expenses when other forms of financial aid are insufficient.

8. Tuition Payment Plans: Many universities offer tuition payment plans that allow students to pay their tuition fees in instalments rather than a lump sum. This option can help students manage their finances better and spread the cost over a more extended period.

Job Opportunities after studying an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA 

Here is a detailed overview of various job opportunities after studying an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, along with information on work permits:

Job Opportunities and Salaries

Job Title	Average Salary (Annual)	Description
Mechanical Engineer	$78,000	Design, develop, and test mechanical devices and systems.
Aerospace Engineer	$116,500	Work on the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles.
Manufacturing Engineer	$76,000	Focus on improving manufacturing processes and ensuring efficient production operations.
Automotive Engineer	$82,000	Design, develop, and test vehicle systems and components.
Robotics Engineer	$88,000	Design and create robots and robotic systems for various applications.
Thermal Engineer	$84,000	Work on the design and analysis of heating and cooling systems and processes.
HVAC Engineer	$75,000	Design and develop heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings.
Research and Development Engineer	$85,000	Conduct research and develop new products or processes.
Project Engineer	$81,000	Manage engineering projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Energy Engineer	$80,000	Focus on improving energy efficiency and developing renewable energy sources.

Work Permit after Studying an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA

1. Optional Practical Training (OPT):

• Duration: Mechanical engineering students are eligible for 12 months of OPT after completing their degree. Additionally, students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, including mechanical engineering, can apply for a 24-month extension, giving a total of 36 months.
• Process: Apply for OPT through the Designated School Official (DSO) at your university. The application is then submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Benefits: OPT allows graduates to gain practical work experience in their field of study, helping them transition into the US job market.

2. H-1B Visa:

• Duration: The H-1B visa is valid for three years and can be extended for another three years.
• Process: To apply for an H-1B visa, you must have a job offer from a US employer who is willing to sponsor you. The employer files a petition with USCIS on your behalf.
• Benefits: The H-1B visa allows you to work in the US in a specialty occupation related to your field of study. It also provides a pathway to permanent residency (green card).

3. STEM OPT Extension:

• Duration: An additional 24 months beyond the initial 12 months of OPT, specifically for STEM graduates.
• Process: Apply for the STEM OPT extension before the initial OPT period expires. The application involves coordination with your employer and the university’s DSO.
• Benefits: The extension allows for an extended period of work experience, increasing the chances of securing an H-1B visa or other long-term employment opportunities in the US.

After completing an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA, graduates have access to various job opportunities with competitive salaries. The work permit options, including OPT and H-1B visas, provide pathways for international students to gain valuable work experience and potentially build long-term careers in the US.

MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA – Placement rate and Top Recruiters

Graduates with an MS in Mechanical Engineering in the USA enjoy high placement rates due to the robust demand for skilled engineers in various industries. The placement rate typically ranges from 80% to 95%, depending on the university and the individual’s performance. Renowned universities often have higher placement rates due to their strong industry connections, comprehensive career services, and alumni networks. These institutions provide engineering degrees that are highly respected in the job market, increasing the employability of their graduates.

Top Recruiters

Mechanical engineering graduates from US universities are sought after by top companies across various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, and technology. Below are some of the major recruiters:

1. General Electric (GE):
   • Industry: Energy, Manufacturing
   • Description: GE is a leading global company known for its innovative solutions in energy and manufacturing. They hire mechanical engineers for roles in design, development, and maintenance of advanced systems.
2. Ford Motor Company:
   • Industry: Automotive
   • Description: As one of the world’s largest automakers, Ford recruits mechanical engineers to work on vehicle design, manufacturing processes, and new automotive technologies.
3. Boeing:
   • Industry: Aerospace
   • Description: Boeing, a major aerospace manufacturer, hires mechanical engineers for aircraft and spacecraft design, development, and testing.
4. Lockheed Martin:
   • Industry: Defence, Aerospace
   • Description: Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs mechanical engineers in roles related to defenc
   • e systems, aircraft design, and advanced technologies.
5. Tesla:
   • Industry: Automotive, Energy
   • Description: Tesla is known for its electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions. They recruit mechanical engineers for vehicle design, energy storage systems, and innovative manufacturing processes.
6. Apple:
   • Industry: Technology
   • Description: Apple hires mechanical engineers for product design and development, focusing on creating cutting-edge consumer electronics and innovative hardware solutions.
7. NASA:
   • Industry: Aerospace
   • Description: NASA offers opportunities for mechanical engineers in space exploration projects, spacecraft design, and research in aeronautics.
8. Siemens:
   • Industry: Engineering, Manufacturing
   • Description: Siemens is a global technology company that hires mechanical engineers for roles in automation, digitalization, and smart infrastructure projects.
9. Honeywell:
   • Industry: Aerospace, Manufacturing
   • Description: Honeywell recruits mechanical engineers for advanced manufacturing, aerospace systems, and innovative product development.
10. 3M:
    • Industry: Manufacturing, Technology
    • Description: 3M hires mechanical engineers to work on product innovation, manufacturing processes, and research and development projects.

Conclusion

It is always important to be aware of the best universities to pursue Mechanical Engineering in the USA to find your ‘one’. Choosing an affordable university for an MS can significantly reduce financial stress while ensuring quality education.

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