Online mechanical engineering programs teach students how to research, test, design, and implement mechanical devices. These programs are best suited for individuals who are creative, have strong mathematical and problem-solving skills, and are mechanical. Online mechanical engineering degree programs are available at the associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, while select schools may offer a career diploma or certificate option.

Graduates may seek employment in government, research and development sectors, or in manufacturing. Programs may provide these students with the skills and training for a career as a mechanical engineer, mathematician, architectural manager, drafter, or petroleum engineer.

Available Degree Levels

• Career Diploma: Varies
• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

An online diploma program in mechanical engineering provides students a strong foundation in the field and an opportunity to seek entry-level employment. Students may take courses in finite elements, product and mechanism design, and introduction to mechanical engineering.

Graduate certificate programs in mechanical engineering provide students with additional knowledge in research and innovation in the field. These programs are ideal for individuals who seek additional experience or desire advanced training. Typical coursework may cover biomedical robotics, renewable energy, fluid and gas dynamics, thermodynamics, engine basics, vibration, and turbomachinery.

Students interested in obtaining an online associate’s degree in mechanical engineering gain additional training in the field as well as a comprehensive education. These programs train individuals in mathematical and scientific principles based on the design, development, and operation of physical systems. Courses may include mechanism design, thermodynamics, mechanical engineering basics, and introduction to engineering.

Online bachelor’s-level programs in mechanical engineering emphasize communication, critical thinking, and creativity skills. Students may design projects that blend their scientific knowledge and solar engineering skills. In addition to general education requirements, students may complete coursework in chemistry, statistics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and mechanical vibrations.

Individuals enrolled in online master’s degree programs in mechanical engineering learn about systems and dynamics, materials and manufacturing, mechanics, and energy. These programs are ideal for individuals who already work as engineers and wish to gain new skills, advance their careers, or enhance their job performance. Courses may include computational biomechanics, scientific computing, system science optimization, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics.

Doctoral-level programs in mechanical engineering help students advance their careers through a research-based curriculum. Coursework may cover combustion, renewable energy, gas dynamics, fluid mechanics, and rubber elasticity.

Career Options

Online mechanical engineering programs may provide students with the necessary skills to work in manufacturing, research and development, or for the government. Graduates of mechanical engineering programs may have the skills to analyze and solve problems on mechanical devices, develop prototypes, and oversee the manufacturing process. Possible careers include:

• Mechanical Engineer
• Drafter
• Architectural Manager
• Petroleum Engineer
• Mathematician