With a thesis
Nine courses + thesis
Those interested in being a researcher in academic, industry, or government laboratories should choose the MS with thesis track.
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Learn to integrate mechanical sciences, computation, and design to shape the future
With its collaborations across departments and institutions, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern University educates the engineers of the future while conducting leading-edge research in robotics and autonomy, biosystems and health, AI and design, advanced manufacturing, micro/nanoengineering, energy and sustainability, and computational engineering.
Led by award-winning educators, our MS program is designed to provide students with advanced technical knowledge as well as exposure to research at the cutting edge of today's technology. Our MS degree puts graduates on the fast track for a career in a broad range of industries or serves as a springboard for PhD and post-doctoral studies.
Degree Tracks and Options
The basics at-a-glance
It is possible for students to complete the program in as little as nine months, although most students take between 12 and 15 months to complete all the requirements.
Earn your master’s or combined BS/MS degrees with the following options:
Without a thesis
12 units, including 1 or 2 optional units of research project
Those interested in industry careers may wish to enter the MS without thesis track.
Add a specialization or minor
Many students choose to customize their curriculum with one of our in-demand specialization areas or add a “mini-MBA” like the engineering management minor.
Chicago
Take advantage of strong research ties to Chicago-area partners
Mechanical engineering faculty and students have a strong history of collaboration with Northwestern's Feinberg School of Medicine, Argonne National Laboratory, and Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, a first-ever “translational” research hospital where clinicians, scientists, innovators and technologists work together to apply research in real time to physical medicine and rehabilitation.
Why Northwestern?
Broaden your knowledge and perspective while networking with accomplished faculty in a welcoming environment
Study with top-tier, interdisciplinary faculty
Our highly interdisciplinary faculty — one-third of whom have joint appointments with other departments — include nine members of the National Academy of Engineering and eight editors-in-chief of leading journals. Many have also received the top teaching awards at the University.
Join a diverse community
Among top engineering schools, McCormick is highly ranked in our percentage of female and underrepresented minority students. We have developed numerous initiatives to ensure that students of all backgrounds feel welcome. In addition, we are enriched by the cultural diversity of Northwestern, Evanston, and the Chicago area.
Engage with our supportive community
Work-life balance is essential to a fulfilling graduate education experience. Beyond the classroom, the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Students’ Society (MEGSS) plans social events and provides mentoring and guidance, and Northwestern offers services and benefits to nurture students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Wei Chen
Professor and Chair of Mechanical Engineering
“Building on the core groups of mechanics, design and manufacturing, and robotics and biosystems, our pioneering research is addressing some of the most current and future needs of our society.”
Career Paths
Where do we go from here?
In addition to the extensive career placement resources available through both Northwestern’s Engineering Career Development office and Northwestern Career Advancement, the department supports student career development and placement through career talks with panels of graduates working in different sectors, teaching and research experience, and networking through faculty.
Our graduates pursue careers in:
Academia
Industry
Government
Request Your Program & Application Guide
Request a customized program guide about the master of science in mechanical engineering.