It provides excellent training for those aiming toward industrial employment as well as for those continuing toward a PhD. The PhD program provides in-depth research training in a specific area. Graduates with these advanced degrees find employment in industry, government labs, universities and industrial research establishments. The graduate programs cover a wide spectrum of courses, allowing each student to select the program which meets his or her particular educational needs. A typical student at the MS level choosing the thesis option would take six formal courses and write a thesis on a selected research topic. A master's student selecting the non-thesis option would take 10 courses in engineering subjects and must pass a written examination.
Students choose courses in mechanical engineering and from other departments.
Most students complete the MS requirements in one to one and one-half years. Students electing to pursue a PhD select and carry out research projects with input from their advisors. The thesis represents original work which makes a significant contribution to the selected field of knowledge. PhD students also take relevant courses in and outside the department, with full-time students normally completing their degrees in about four years. The department offers formal graduate programs in each of the research-oriented areas.