University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme builds on undergraduate fundamentals and offers depth in areas such as solid mechanics, materials, dynamics and controls, thermal-fluid sciences, design and manufacturing, and robotics. Students typically choose between a thesis-based Master of Science (research focus) and a project/coursework-based Master of Engineering or MS non-thesis option.

• Core topics: advanced mechanics of materials, continuum mechanics, dynamics, vibration, heat transfer and fluid mechanics.
• Specialist areas: computational mechanics and finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), micro/nano systems, thermal management, energy systems, controls and mechatronics, biomechanics and biofluidics, and additive manufacturing.
• Laboratory and practical work: experimental methods, instrumentation, materials testing, thermal and flow laboratories, and design-build-test projects using campus maker spaces and machine shops.
• Research and project options: thesis students conduct original research under a faculty adviser and participate in seminars; non-thesis students complete advanced coursework plus a capstone project or practicum.
• Course examples: graduate dynamics, advanced thermodynamics, finite element analysis, experimental methods in mechanical engineering, control systems, and elective seminars in robotics or energy systems.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or a closely related discipline. Key application components typically include:

• Academic transcripts showing strong performance in engineering, mathematics and science coursework.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé detailing technical experience, projects and any publications.
• A statement of purpose describing academic and professional goals, research interests and intended faculty advisers if known.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant's technical capabilities.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted tests unless exempt.

Some applicants may be asked for additional materials such as a portfolio of design work or GRE scores where relevant. Admission decisions consider prior coursework, grades, recommendations and alignment between the applicant's interests and faculty expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of technical and leadership roles across industry and academia. Typical careers include mechanical design engineer, thermal systems engineer, aerospace engineer, manufacturing and process engineer, controls and automation engineer, systems integration specialist, and research engineer. Alumni also pursue doctoral study or transition into engineering management, product development, consulting, and entrepreneurial ventures in sectors such as aerospace and defence, automotive, energy, biomedical devices, robotics and advanced manufacturing.

The programme’s combination of theoretical training, laboratory experience and applied projects equips graduates to work on multidisciplinary teams, lead development of complex engineering systems, or continue in research and development roles.

Why study at University of Arizona

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is housed within the university's engineering schools that provide a collaborative research environment with strengths in aerospace, energy, materials, robotics and bioengineering. Students benefit from access to specialised research laboratories, machine shops and maker spaces for prototyping, as well as high-performance computing resources for simulation and modelling.

Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona has strong regional connections to aerospace and defence companies, research organisations and a growing advanced manufacturing sector, providing opportunities for internships, industry projects and applied research. The department’s faculty are active in funded research, offering students opportunities to participate in cutting-edge projects and to pursue customised study plans that match career or research goals.