Mechanical engineers design, prototype, and build moving machines. Multiple industries that include automotive manufacturing, robotics, and cooling systems employ them. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these professionals earned a $99,510 median annual salary in 2023. The BLS also projects that jobs for mechanical engineers will grow 10% between 2022-2032.
Professionals must possess a bachelor's degree to enter this diverse field. An online mechanical engineering degree provides the education engineers-in-training need to apply to entry-level positions and start the licensure process. Other benefits include honing transferable problem-solving, mathematics, and interpersonal skills.
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Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees 2025
#1 Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees 2025
Arizona State University
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online
What Sets It Apart:
Arizona State University's bachelor of science in engineering (BSE) in mechanical engineering program teaches students computer programming, data science, and design processes. Bachelor's students can pursue an accelerated master's program, which can be completed in as little as one year after finishing the undergraduate program. Master's degree options include an MS in aerospace engineering, astrophysics and astronomy, exploration systems design, and more.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $744
Out of State | $744
Programmatic Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Licensure Eligibility: Yes, graduates of this program meet the educational requirements for pursuing a professional engineer license in most states.
Why Students Choose ASU:
- Flexible Start Dates: ASU's BSE in mechanical engineering program offers multiple start dates throughout the year.
- Double Majors: Undergraduates can pursue a double major and earn two degrees. Certain majors may not be eligible due to overlapping curriculums.
- Study Abroad: Students can study abroad during their studies to learn about other cultures and gain hands-on experience.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Admission Criteria: Applicants for the BSE in mechanical engineering program must meet school and program admission criteria. First-year applicants must have a minimum 1210 SAT score or 24 ACT score, or they must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA in competency courses or rank in the top 25% of their high school class.
- Out-of-State Fees: Nonresidents must pay a higher tuition rate than Arizona residents.
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees 2025
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Oregon State University offers a BS in mechanical engineering that combines traditional mechanical and computational engineering. Students must complete a capstone project that utilizes program principles to create real-world solutions. They can also pursue the bachelor's-to-master's path through the accelerated master's platform, counting up to 22 credits for both degrees.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $428 (per quarter credit)
Out of State | $428 (per quarter credit)
Programmatic Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Licensure Eligibility: Yes, graduates of this program meet the educational requirements for pursuing a professional engineer license in all states.
Why Students Choose OSU:
- Honors Degree: Attendees can pursue an honors degree online. Honors students may work on research projects or complete a thesis.
- Information Sessions: The school provides virtual information sessions about its online programs.
- Scholarships: OSU's scholarship system provides access to nearly 2,000 scholarships and awards nearly $10 million annually.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Additional Tasks: Online courses can be completed asynchronously but may require proctored exams, fieldwork, or an internship.
- Calculus Requirement: Only applicants who meet the prerequisites for calculus can receive direct admission into the program. Other applicants must initially enroll under another major or as undeclared.
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees 2025
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The University of Alabama's BS in mechanical engineering program prepares graduates to pursue roles in multiple industries, including manufacturing, robotics, or bioengineering. The degree consists of 126 credits and charges a per-credit tuition rate, with in-state and out-of-state students paying the same rate.
Cost per Credit
In State | $385
Out of State | $385
Programmatic Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Licensure Eligibility: Yes, graduates of this program meet the educational requirements for pursuing a professional engineer license in most states.
Why Students Choose UA:
- Online Scholarships: The school offers scholarships for online attendees. Applicants can complete one form to apply to all available scholarships.
- Career Services: Online students can utilize the career services center's resources, including mock interviews, resume advising, and virtual career fairs.
- Credit Transfer Policy: Students must take at least 50% of their courses from a four-year institution and 25% of their courses at UA.
Know Before You Enroll:
- In-Person Requirements: Attendees must complete three in-person labs in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Students must also complete in-person proctored exams.
- Limited Start Dates: The mechanical engineering program only offers two start dates per year.
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees 2025
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
The University of North Dakota's BS in mechanical engineering program teaches students through online courses, research, and sponsored design projects. The degree offers four optional concentrations in mechanical design, thermal sciences, manufacturing, or aerospace. Online students can enroll in the combined mechanical engineering degree program to complete a bachelor's and master's degree in just five years of study.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $612
Out of State | $612
Programmatic Accreditation: Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Licensure Eligibility: Yes, graduates of this program meet the educational requirements for pursuing a professional engineer license in all states.
Why Students Choose UND:
- Hands-On Experience: Students build a component or design a system at least once per year.
- Asynchronous Courses: The program provides asynchronous course formats and multiple learning methods, including online lectures, simulations, and video content.
- Class Interactions: Attendees can talk with professors and classmates via discussion boards and chat rooms.
Know Before You Enroll:
- On-Campus Labs: Students must complete three in-person labs over the summer. Each lab requires 4-5 days to complete.
- Credit Requirement: UND's BS in mechanical engineering requires 128 credits, and the aerospace concentration requires 133 credits. These credit requirements may be higher than those of other programs.
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula on our most affordable rankings. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This list is from 2025. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Why Get a Degree in Mechanical Engineering?
The best mechanical engineering schools' and their online programs will prepare students to enter a growing field with numerous career opportunities. Other benefits include qualifying for a state-issued professional engineering license. Additional licensure requirements involve obtaining at least four years of professional experience and passing an examination.
A mechanical engineering degree online program may use an asynchronous curriculum. Asynchronous programs allow students to view recorded lectures and contribute to discussion boards at convenient times. This academic flexibility allows many degree-seekers to continue working while earning a degree. Other online learning benefits may include specialized support services and the ability to attend a top U.S. school without relocating.
Courses in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering degrees emphasize the knowledge and skills necessary to develop moving devices and systems. Coursework prepares students to apply mechanical engineering fundamentals when navigating real-life problems. Typical programs conclude with a senior project wherein degree-seekers design and create a product. Graduation requirements also include general education courses, such as history and literature.
Typical mechanical engineering schools online require some, if not all, of the following foundational courses. However, course expectations and academic requirements vary among schools. Please visit a program's website or contact an admissions advisor to learn more about the student experience and graduate outcomes.
Engineering Graphics Communication
Engineering graphics communication introduces students to drafting software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Pro/E. Coursework involves developing simple blueprints and creating 3D models. Degree-seekers take this course in their first year of a mechanical engineering online program, as advanced courses require learners to complete assignments using these software suites.Materials Science
Mechanical engineers must consider which materials best suit a product in development. Materials science introduces learners to different materials' mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. Coursework also emphasizes materials' inspection best practices, as selecting the wrong metal, plastic, or polymer during production may lead to a project's failure or put users in physical danger.Applied Strengths of Material
Mechanical engineers create durable products by considering how stress and strain affect moving systems. Course topics include how constant loads wear down materials and formulas engineers use to calculate these effects. Learners examine advanced materials' strength topics, such as materials' failure points when applying different loads simultaneously.
How Much Does a Mechanical Engineering Degree Cost?
Prospective students on a budget should determine whether any in-state public colleges and universities offer a mechanical engineering degree, as these schools charge residents competitive tuition rates. Learners attending a private school may pay more for their degree. Applicants determine a school's return on investment by researching graduate outcomes.
An online mechanical engineering degree may feature cost savings in addition to lower tuition. Some colleges and universities exempt online learners from specific fees. Students do not pay for multiple services that on-campus learners use, such as housing, meals, and transportation. Also, many students with small children circumvent childcare costs.
Institutional financial aid reduces students' tuition. Many schools award grants and scholarships to incoming first-year and transfer students. Active-duty service members may also qualify for an automatic tuition reduction. Please contact your prospective school's financial aid office to learn more about tuition-reduction programs.
How Much Do Mechanical Engineering Majors Make?
Professionals with a mechanical engineering degree working in scientific research and development services earn the highest median annual salary. Other fields offering a competitive salary include computer and electronic product manufacturing, architectural services, and transportation equipment manufacturing. Workers in these sectors earn over $90,000 annually.
Geographic location affects how much mechanical engineering majors make. Workers in New Mexico, Washington, D.C., and California earn significantly more than professionals in other states. Positions in Massachusetts and Louisiana also offer a median salary exceeding $115,000 annually. However, students should consider a state's cost of living before deciding where to start their career.
In addition to becoming a licensed mechanical engineer, workers can increase their salary potential with industry certifications. A certification demonstrates mastery of mechanical engineering topics and dedication to the field. Certification requirements may include possessing relevant experience and passing examinations.
Certifications and Licensure for Mechanical Engineering
Professionals with a mechanical engineering degree may continue their education and earn professional engineering licensure and industry certifications. Licensure and certification requirements involve gaining professional experience and passing an examination. Potential benefits include qualifying for a supervisory position, earning a raise, or exploring new job opportunities.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) awards the CHD to candidates who pass a 115-question examination. ASHRAE members receive a certification discount. Professionals recertify every three years, completing at least 45 professional development (PD) credits. More than 30 U.S. government agencies recognize ASHRAE certifications as a gold standard in the field.
CQEs possess the honed quality control (QC) skills necessary to develop new systems, analyze improper QC causes, and promote QC best practices. Eligibility requirements for professionals with a mechanical engineering degree include four years of experience and passing a 175-question examination. Recertifying involves completing PD credits or taking another examination.
Although recent graduates do not need a license to apply to entry-level positions, licensure helps experienced mechanical engineers advance their career. Eligibility requirements include passing the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and working as an engineer-in-training for at least four years. Candidates then attempt the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam. Other requirements vary by state.
Mechanical Engineering Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a mechanical engineering degree online?
Top colleges and universities offer a fully online mechanical engineering degree. Students experience the same learning outcomes as on-campus degree-seekers, such as the ability to troubleshoot problems and collaborate with peers.
Is a mechanical engineering degree worth it?
The mechanical engineering field offers job opportunities in different industries. As a result, students and recent graduates explore careers aligning with their values and interests.
What degree do I need to become a mechanical engineer?
Professionals need a bachelor's in mechanical engineering degree to apply to entry-level positions. Other options include a 5- to 6-year BS/MS program.
Do mechanical engineers make good money?
A typical mechanical engineer earns approximately $50,000 more annually than the average U.S. worker. The top 10% of earners in this field make over $140,000.
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