Graduate Degree Programs
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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD applicant must demonstrate strong scholastic ability, potential to perform and complete independent research, and the ability to contribute creatively to advanced developments in engineering. Admission to the PhD program generally requires a Masters Degree, preferably in Mechanical Engineering, though applicants will be considered with degrees in related fields. The Department expects full-time students to complete the PhD degree within three to four years.
Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
The MSME degree is intended for students with an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field, such as Aerospace Engineering. Students' undergraduate backgrounds should include core courses in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics of materials, dynamics of mechanical systems, systems analysis, machine design, manufacturing, and design. A few deficiencies in these undergraduate core areas can be made up as part of the Masters program, but if a large number need to be made up, they should be taken before the student officially enters the graduate program.
MSME students must decide within their first quarter whether to pursue the thesis or non-thesis option. The thesis option is for those desiring research experience or for those who plan to continue in the PhD program. The non-thesis option requires 12 hours of additional coursework in place of the thesis. Both options require a total of 42 credits, which are usually completed within 24 months for full-time students. Part-time students must complete the MS degree within four calendar years.
Masters of Science in Engineering (MSE)
The Department of Mechanical Engineering also offers an interdisciplinary Engineering Degree (MSE). Information on this program is available at http://www.me.washington.edu/academic/admissions/applications_summary.php
Education at a Distance for Growth and Excellence (EDGE)
About 30% of the graduate students in the department work full time in industry and pursue their Masters Degree part time through the Education at a Distance for Growth and Excellence (EDGE) program. The EDGE program is the distance-learning program of the University of Washington College of Engineering, and delivers instruction locally, regionally and nationally through the use of web-based communications and satellite technology. More information about this program is available at http://www.engr.washington.edu/edge
Graduate Non-Matriculated (GNM)
The GNM program permits students to take graduate courses or advanced undergraduate courses without being matriculated as a degree-seeking student. Although the applicant must present an official transcript and have earned a GPA of 3.0 or above, GRE scores and recommendation letters are not required. Only 12 credits taken as a GNM student can be applied toward a degree program if the student enters as a regular matriculated student at a later date.
