The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) degree is intended for students with undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering or a closely related field.
Students' undergraduate backgrounds should include mechanical engineering core courses in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics of materials, dynamics of mechanical systems, systems analysis, machine design, manufacturing, and design. This degree is intended for students presenting themselves as professional mechanical engineers.
Learn more about the MSME curriculum and graduation requirements.
Online option
In addition to the on-campus program, the MSME curriculum is offered in an online format that uses the latest internet and video technologies and is taught by expert UW faculty. Students can enroll on a full- or part-time basis to accommodate their work schedules. Additionally, distance learning students can enter the program any quarter.
MSME core undergraduate courses
Those with a bachelors in Mechanical Engineering applying to the MSME program should have taken the following undergraduate mechanical engineering courses or their equivalent:
- ME 323 - Thermodynamics
- ME 331 - Heat Transfer
- ME 333 - Fluid Dynamics
- ME 354 - Materials Laboratory
- ME 355 - Manufacturing Processes
- ME 356 - Machine Design
- ME 373 & 374 - Systems, Dynamics, Controls
- ME 395 - Introduction to Design
Students with non-ME undergraduate backgrounds
If you have completed standard math, natural science, and engineering fundamental courses, you may qualify for admission to the MSME degree. Students with undergraduate degrees in disciplines other than mechanical or aerospace engineering are encouraged to take our recommended engineering prerequisite courses before applying. For more information, review our frequently asked questions about applying to our program with a non-ME background.
Mathematics
- One year of college calculus (Math 124, 125, 126)
- One quarter of differential equations (Math 207 or Math 307)
- One quarter of linear algebra (Math 208 or Math 308)
Natural science
- Two quarters of college chemistry (Chem 142, 152)
- Three quarters of college physics (Phys 121, 122, 123)
Engineering fundamental courses
- One quarter of introductory computer graphics (ME 123)
- One quarter of introductory programming (CSE 121 or AMATH 301)
- One quarter of fundamental material science (MSE 170)
- One quarter of statics (AA 210)
- One quarter of introductory mechanics of materials (CEE 220)
- One quarter of dynamics (ME 230)
- One quarter of circuit theory (EE 215)
Admission
Applications must be submitted through the UW Graduate School Online Application. For detailed information, visit our application procedures page to guide you through your application journey.