Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA: Universities, Costs & Career Scope

Mechanical engineering courses in USA focus on system design, mechanics, and applied physics, addressing practical engineering challenges. Programs combine core subjects, such as thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, with hands-on lab work and project-based learning.

Students can pursue these at bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD levels, with specialization tracks in aerospace, robotics, energy, and AI automation. With over 100,000 students enrolled and 37,000+ bachelor’s degrees awarded yearly, it ranks among the top 20 most-chosen majors in the country.

Around 370 U.S. colleges offer mechanical engineering courses, including nearly half of the nation’s top 100 universities. For those planning to study in the USA, the field offers access to strong research, institutional variety, and direct links to industry.

Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA: Overview

Mechanical engineering courses in USA are offered across all academic levels, from 4-year bachelor’s degrees to PhDs spanning up to 6 years. 

With tuition averaging between $24,000 and $66,000 (INR 20.5L to INR 56.6L) per year, programs often include multiple specializations, flexible intakes, and research-intensive tracks.

The table below outlines the essential features of the course, including duration, eligibility requirements, fees, and top institutions.

With this structural overview in place, it’s worth asking, why do thousands of international students choose the U.S. for mechanical engineering each year? The reasons go well beyond just rankings or resources.

Why Pursue Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA?

The United States remains a prime destination for mechanical engineering, with institutions such as MIT and Stanford consistently ranked among the world's top 10. Known for their advanced technical curriculum and strong job placement outcomes, U.S. programs blend academic depth with hands-on research, equipping graduates to meet the current needs of the industry.

Here are some key reasons why studying mechanical engineering in the U.S. is a smart move:

• Strong Job Market: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects around 19,800 new mechanical engineering openings each year through 2033, with growth driven by sectors like automation, aerospace, and energy.
• Competitive Salaries: Mechanical engineers earn a median salary of $102,320 (INR 85L) annually, with experienced professionals exceeding $160K (INR 1.3Cr) per year.
• Specialized Learning Tracks: U.S. programs offer in-depth specializations such as robotics, thermofluids, renewable energy, computational mechanics, and material science (MS) programs.
• Practical Training Opportunities: Most programs feature co-operative education (co-op) or industry internships, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering problems.
• Access to Top Employers: Companies like Boeing, Ford, Tesla, Lockheed Martin, and GE actively hire graduates from U.S. mechanical engineering schools.
• Advanced Infrastructure: Universities are equipped with labs, wind tunnels, 3D printing facilities, and simulation software that mirror industry settings.
• STEM OPT Benefit: International students benefit from up to 3 years of post-study work eligibility under the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, enhancing job prospects after graduation.

These advantages come to life at institutions that lead global innovation and research. A closer look at top universities offering these programs reveals where academic excellence meets real-world engineering.

Top Universities Offering Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

Some of the highest-ranked U.S. institutions for mechanical engineering, like MIT, Stanford University, and Caltech, offer programs with semester fees ranging from $34,000 to $85,000 (INR 29.1L to INR 72.8L), depending on degree type and university tier.

Many of these programs, including the BS in Mechanical and Ocean Engineering, emphasize interdisciplinary research and are housed in schools consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the world. 

Below is a comparison of select top-tier universities with tuition, duration, and deadlines.

While elite institutions draw global attention, many other universities also offer high-quality mechanical engineering courses in USA with strong faculty and infrastructure.

Popular Universities to Study Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

Outside the top global tier, several respected U.S. universities, including Scranton, Penn, and Johns Hopkins University, offer well-regarded programs with fees generally in the $30,000 to $64,000 (INR 25.7L to INR 54.8L) range per semester.

These schools are known for strong faculty support, research funding access, or niche strengths like aerospace or applied mechanics. 

The table below highlights these popular choices along with key admission details.

Before targeting any institution, whether top-tier or popular, you need to meet specific academic and language qualifications. Let’s explore what eligibility looks like across degree levels.

Eligibility Requirements for Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

Eligibility for mechanical engineering courses in USA spans academics, test scores, and visa documentation. Most universities including California Institute of Technology and Stanford University expect a GPA between 3.0–3.5, with standardized test flexibility.

GRE is often optional, while English scores like TOEFL 79–90 or IELTS 6.0–6.5 remain standard. Below is a detailed breakdown of criteria and required documents across academic and immigration categories.

Meeting eligibility is the first step; guiding the application process is the next. From documentation to timelines, here's what you need to know to apply effectively.

Application Process to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

Securing admission into a U.S. mechanical engineering program requires careful project planning, competitive credentials, and adherence to administrative timelines. Leading institutions like Georgia Tech maintain acceptance rates between 10% and 16%, while elite schools like MIT and California Institute of Technology acceptance rates are as low as 4-5% for engineering applicants.

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to the application process:

• Step 1: Research Programs: Identify your specialization, such as robotics, thermal systems, or materials science, and list schools that align with your goals (e.g., Stanford, UIUC, Georgia Tech)
• Step 2: Prepare for Required Exams: Register early for the GRE (optional or waived at elite schools). Prepare for TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo, with a minimum score of 90+ on the TOEFL, 6.5–7.0 on the IELTS, or 105–120 on the Duolingo.
• Step 3: Complete University Application: Apply via related portals (e.g., ApplyWeb, Slate), and submit:
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • 2–3 Letters of Recommendation
  • GRE/English test scores
  • Resume/CV
  • Proof of funding or financial support documents
• Step 4: Attend Interviews (if required): Some competitive programs, especially those offering funding or research positions, may require an interview to assess your technical knowledge, fit, and motivation.
• Step 5: Accept Offer & Explore Funding: Respond before your deadline. Seek funding opportunities such as Graduate Assistantships (GA) or scholarships, which are offered by many engineering schools.
• Step 6: Apply for F‑1 Student Visa: Upon offer acceptance, obtain Form I‑20, then:
  • Pay SEVIS I‑901 fee ($350 or INR 30K for F‑1)
  • Complete DS-160 form ($160 or INR 13.7K)
  • Schedule a visa interview and carry required documents, including passport, I‑20, a DS‑160 confirmation, a SEVIS fee receipt, and proof of funds.

Adhering closely to each step and differentiating your application with strong academic and extracurricular records will strengthen your overall profile during this competitive process.

Once admitted, students begin with foundational coursework before moving into niche areas that reflect their interests or industry trends. Let’s break down what the academic journey typically includes.

Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA: Course Structure & Specialization

Mechanical engineering courses in USA combine fundamental theory with flexible pathways for specialization. 

Core subjects like fluid systems, advanced dynamics, and CAD form the academic base, while electives span rapidly evolving types of engineering fields such as robotics, biomechanical engineering, and renewable energy.

Here’s how the coursework is structured, including thesis and capstone options.

Understanding the course structure is key, but so is budgeting for it. Tuition, housing, insurance, and living costs all add up, here’s a detailed look at expected expenses.

Cost of Studying Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

The cost of studying engineering in the USA vary by institution and degree level, but living costs in the USA make up a substantial part of the student budget. 

Monthly housing alone can range from $500 to $2,000 (INR 43K to INR 1.7L), while essentials like food, insurance, and transportation add to recurring expenses.

The table below outlines typical monthly costs international students should plan for.

Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

To manage these expenses, students often turn to scholarships that reduce financial stress. Below are funding options offered internally by universities and through external organizations.

Scholarships for Pursuing Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

While tuition and living costs can exceed $50,000 (INR 42.8L) per year at top U.S. universities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, a range of scholarships, both institutional and external, can significantly reduce this burden.

These awards cater to merit, background, or field of study. For instance, the Stanford University scholarships like Knight-Hennessy Scholars cover full tuition and living expenses. Let’s break down key internal and external funding options.

Internal Scholarships

University-sponsored scholarships for mechanical engineering students often offer substantial support, with some awards like the Dean’s Scholarship at Scranton reaching $32,000 (INR 27.4L), and Cornell University Scholarships offering up to $60,000 (INR 51.4L).

Eligibility criteria vary, but most are tied to academic standing or enrollment in an engineering-specific program. Below are select internal scholarships with their benefits and conditions.

Beyond institutional aid, students can also apply for external awards funded by global organizations and foundations. These scholarships often support diverse backgrounds and study goals.

External Scholarships

External scholarships are open to international applicants regardless of their target university, with options like AAUW International Fellowships and the Global Citizen Scholarship at $10,000 (INR 8.6L) offering meaningful aid. 

These are typically merit-based and focus on academic promise, diversity, or leadership potential.

The table below outlines notable external awards and their core details.

Once students graduate, especially those who’ve received solid academic and financial support, they enter a job market filled with opportunities across industries. Here's what those career paths and salaries look like.

Career Opportunities After Completing Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

A U.S. degree in mechanical engineering can lead to roles across core and advanced sectors, with clear salary distinctions based on specialization. 

While entry roles like mechanical technicians earn around $58,600 (INR 50L) per year, positions in automation, robotics, or marine engineering often exceed $87,000 (INR 75L) annually.

Below is a snapshot of job roles and typical pay scales graduates can expect.

Source: US News, Indeed, bls.gov

Note: INR conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

The roles are promising, but who’s hiring? From aerospace to automation, here are the top companies that actively recruit mechanical engineering talent from U.S. campuses.

Companies Hiring After Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA

Mechanical engineering graduates in the USA have access to best career options across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, manufacturing, and Information Technology. 

Leading employers include both multinational corporations and innovative engineering firms, many of which actively recruit international talent and offer visa sponsorship.

Some of the most prominent employers include:

• GAE Aerospace (formerly GE Aerospace): Actively hiring; announced plans to recruit 900 engineers to support next-gen aerospace programs.
• Boeing: A leading aerospace manufacturer, Boeing regularly recruits mechanical engineers for roles in aircraft design, systems integration, and advanced manufacturing.
• Lockheed Martin: Focuses on defense and space systems; seeks engineers with expertise in propulsion, structural design, and thermal analysis.
• Tesla & Rivian: Key players in the automotive sector; hire mechanical engineers for EV systems, battery tech, and automation tools.
• Google, Apple, Amazon: These tech giants employ mechanical engineers for hardware design, data-center infrastructure, and robotics, especially in Bay Area facilities.
• NASA and SpaceX: Leaders in aerospace R&D recruit engineers in propulsion, materials, thermal systems, and structural dynamics.

Additionally, major industrial and energy firms such as General Electric, Honeywell, Ford, Caterpillar, and Northrop Grumman are frequently listed as top employers for mechanical engineering graduates.

Planning your mechanical engineering journey in the U.S. involves more than just choosing a course or job role. Here's how upGrad helps at every step, from admissions to career preparation.

How Can upGrad Support Your Journey to Study Mechanical Engineering Courses in USA?

Pursuing mechanical engineering courses in USA requires more than just a strong academic background. From handling program prerequisites and GRE/TOEFL scores to preparing detailed SOPs, the process can be demanding.

upGrad offers customized guidance through every step, whether you're shortlisting universities known for robotics or fine-tuning your applications. Experts also help plan finances, explore scholarships, and guide visa processes.

Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts to get personalized help at each stage, from choosing research-intensive programs to planning your application and funding strategy, so your U.S. mechanical engineering journey begins with clarity and direction.