Mechanical engineering is a great field for students who love innovation and technology. Professionals in this field play an important role in developing advanced machines, vehicles, and other devices that we use in our everyday life. If you want to learn mechanical engineering you can enroll in the cheapest online mechanical engineering degree programs to cut costs and earn your degree fast.
In this article, you will learn about the cheapest online schools for mechanical engineering as well as the job opportunities that are waiting for you after earning your degree. Learn about the tuition fee cost, courses offered, and other important information relevant to the most affordable online mechanical engineering degree programs.
Can I Get a Mechanical Engineering Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a mechanical engineering degree online. The cheapest online mechanical engineering degree programs provide intensive coursework and cover essential mechanical engineering subjects such as CAD, thermodynamics, and mechanical design. You can get an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree in mechanical engineering online.
Why Should I Get a Mechanical Engineering Degree Online?
You should get a mechanical engineering degree online because these programs provide quality education at an affordable cost, providing you with the essential skills and knowledge of mechanical engineers. They will also give you a chance to earn your degree while enjoying the flexibility of online learning.
However, if you prefer more interactive, hands-on learning, an in-person program might be more suitable for you. Online learning is appropriate for working professionals and for students who can study with less supervision.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online mechanical engineering degree programs in the US are the Associate Degree in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology at Northcentral Technical College, the Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering at University of Central Florida, and the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology at Old Dominion University. These public schools all offer competitive tuition rates.
Cheapest Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Northcentral Technical College’s Associate Degree in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology
- University of Central Florida’s Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Old Dominion University’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology
How Much Does an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Cost?
An online mechanical engineering degree costs anywhere from $300 to $1,000 per credit hour. This will depend on the degree level. Associate degrees are typically less expensive than bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees.
There are many ways to help you pay for these tuition fees. You should fill out and submit your FAFSA form during the admission process to be eligible for federal aid. You can also apply for several mechanical engineering scholarships such as the SME Education Foundation Family Scholarship, the F. W. ‘Beich’ Beichley Scholarship, and the Kenneth Andrew Roe Scholarship.
Will Getting a Mechanical Engineering Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a mechanical engineering degree online will save you money. Since you can take online courses at home or anywhere convenient to you, you can save on transportation and housing expenses. Many affordable colleges also offer online mechanical engineering degree programs that offer cheaper tuition fees compared to in-person programs.
Online Mechanical Engineering Programs vs In-Person Mechanical Engineering Programs
There are some key differences between mechanical engineering online and in-person degree programs, which we discuss in this section. This will help you determine what type of program can help you reach your career goals. Both types of online engineering programs have benefits and disadvantages, so use this information to carefully assess what program is the best for you.
Benefits of an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree
- Lower cost. Online mechanical engineering degrees can reduce your education expenses such as transportation, housing, and other school fees. Online programs typically have lower tuition fees than in-person programs.
- Flexibility. Online degrees offer flexible schedules and allow you to work on other things while you learn. This makes it a great option for working professionals as they can earn a degree without giving up their job or other commitments. Mechanical engineering degrees can be full-time or part-time for added flexibility.
- Self-paced learning. This learning method allows you to take more time to study a topic that is challenging for you. You can easily rewatch or review your topics in self-paced learning anytime and as often as you want.
- Easy access to learning materials. Through online learning, you will have easier access to all the documents and files you need for studying. All the discussions and other learning materials are accessible over the Internet. With this, you can easily go back to a topic that you missed during class discussion.
- No need to commute. Online learning will allow you to study mechanical engineering at your desired university even if it’s far away from your home. You don’t need to rent a house or travel long distances as you can join classes and communicate with your peers and professors online through chat, video conference, and more. However, some schools may allow campus visits for online students.
Benefits of In-Person Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs
- Better learning experience. In-person mechanical engineering degree programs give students a better learning experience. It enables you to interact with your classmates and faculty members directly. In-person students learn through collaboration and group activities.
- Fewer distractions. In-person mechanical engineering degree programs give students a better learning environment with fewer distractions. Sometimes, outside noise or unexpected events can distract online learners during discussions and steal their attention. In an in-person course, you can focus on your study and avoid these unexpected distractions.
- Easy communications. You can easily communicate and ask questions to your professors in an in-person program. Mechanical engineering covers complicated topics that you need to carefully study. In-person students receive better attention and advice from professors so they can have a better understanding of their courses.
- Easy access to school labs and facilities. Mechanical engineering requires hands-on learning through laboratory works and projects. Schools provide appropriate research facilities and laboratories for mechanical engineering students for learning applications. In-person classes allow you to access the school laboratories, equipment, and tools to conduct meaningful projects with the help of your professors. You can also collaborate with your classmates on these projects.
- Networking. College gives you a chance to come into direct contact with colleagues and professionals in your field. The connections you make during this stage of your life can help you immensely as you step into your professional career.
Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Career Options
Earning a mechanical engineering degree online will qualify you for various high-paying jobs such as industrial engineers, petroleum engineers, and aerospace engineers. You can start your career in the manufacturing, automotive, defense, construction, or chemical industry. Many employers hire associate degree holders for entry-level jobs but applicants with a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree will most likely stand out in the application process.
Mechanical Engineering Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the mechanical engineering job is expected to grow by seven percent between 2020 and 2030. Despite this limited job growth, More than 20,000 job openings are expected every year for mechanical engineers.
Mechanical Engineering Salary
The average salary for a mechanical engineering graduate is $95,300 a year. This will depend on which industry you work in. For instance, those who work in machinery manufacturing can earn an average salary of $79,770 every year.
Mechanical engineers who work in computer and electronic product manufacturing can earn a yearly average wage of $99,640, while those who work in scientific research and development services have a higher salary potential and can earn an average annual wage of $102,050 every year.
Can I Enroll in an Online Mechanical Engineering Program for Free?
No, you can’t attend mechanical engineering school for free, but financial aid could cover most of or all of your fees. You can apply for FAFSA, grants programs, private or government loans, or get a part-time job from work-study programs. Online mechanical engineering students typically pay for tuition fees and other expenses, but costs are cheaper than in-person mechanical engineering degree programs.
Cheapest Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Northcentral Technical College | Associate Degree in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology | $10,105/Program |
| University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | $327.32/Credit (In-state); $$1,151.72/Credit (Out of state) |
| Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology | $374/Credit (In-state); $407/Credit (Out of State) |
| The University of Alabama | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | $385/Credit |
| University of North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | $427.86/Credit (In-state); $479.20/Credit (Minnesota residents); $641.78/Credit (non-residents) |
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering | $5,489/Term (In-state); $6,624/Term (Out-of-state) |
| University of Michigan – Dearborn | Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering | $455.00/Credit (In-state); $856.00/Credit (Out of state); $567.00/Credit (Out of state in online program) |
| East Coast Polytechnic Institute University | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology | $8,712/Semester |
| Purdue University | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | $750/Credit (In-state); $750/Credit (Out of state) |
| Missouri University of Science And Technology | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | $1,200/Credit |
Mechanical Engineering Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Programs
We chose the most affordable mechanical engineering degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Common Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Courses
Below are some common courses that you will learn from the cheapest online mechanical engineering degree programs. They cover essential topics in this field, such as fluid mechanics, computer-aided drafting (cad), manufacturing processes, material science, and thermodynamics.
Fluid Mechanics
Fluid mechanics is concerned with the study of fluid behavior. Since mechanical engineers work on turbines and steam engines, they should know how fluids operate under different conditions. Aside from mechanical engineering, it is a vital course in other engineering fields such as civil engineering, chemical engineering, and aerospace engineering.
Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD)
In this course, mechanical engineering students learn how to use different CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Inventors. This is one of the important courses in this field because mechanical engineers use these software tools in designing, sketching, and analyzing systems for a design project. They also use CAD software to determine the specifications of mechanical components or devices.
Manufacturing Processes
This course will teach you the manufacturing best practices and procedures. You will learn how to use different manufacturing materials and equipment and study their properties and functionalities. This course is vital to those who want to pursue a career in industrial design or manufacturing engineering.
Material Science
Material science courses introduce students to the properties of materials including their composition, structure, and mechanical and chemical properties. This course teaches students about material inspection in manufacturing. Knowing the properties of materials also helps mechanical engineering in designing mechanical components.
Thermodynamics
In this course, students study the transfer of energy and its relation to heat, temperature, and work. They also learn about the basic laws of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid properties. Mechanical engineers use the principles of thermodynamics in developing heat engines, air conditioning systems, water heaters, and other devices that we use in our everyday life.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Mechanical Engineering Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online mechanical engineering degree. This will help you cover your expenses, although you’ll need to make sure you are applying to a program and school with official accreditation. You can also use private loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs to cover your tuition.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree
There are multiple options to help pay for an online mechanical engineering degree. The cheapest online schools for mechanical engineering allow prospective students to apply for financial aid. These are federal and state grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs.
Federal and State Grants
Grants are financial aid that helps students with their education expenses. Unlike scholarships, students can acquire grants based on their financial needs and not on academic standards. Grants usually do not require students to repay the money.
The two types of grants are federal and state grants. Federal grants come from the federal government wherein students need to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form during their admission application. The information they provide will determine their eligibility for this financial aid.
State grants are financial aid from the state to their resident students. Some of these grant programs are PA State Grant Program, California’s Cal Grant Program, and Texas’ Towards Excellence, Access, and Success program.
Federal and Private Loans
Loans are money borrowed that requires students to pay back with interest. These can be from the federal government or private organizations. Federal loans typically have fixed and lower interest rates than private loans. They also offer more flexible repayment terms. You can also acquire these loans based on your eligibility and not on your credit history.
Work Study
Work-study programs offer part-time jobs for students who demonstrate financial needs to support their school finances. These jobs can be community service or work related to their field of study.
Cheapest Mechanical Engineering Degree Programs Online
In this section, we provide you with a list of the most affordable mechanical engineering programs per degree level. Learn about the educational experience, courses, and other important details of each program below.
Most Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Associate Degrees
- Northcentral Technical College | Associate Degree in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology. This program includes technical drawing courses such as Technical Drafting/CAD, Technical Detailing, AutoCAD Applications, and SolidWorks. The school also partners with several universities and allows its graduates to transfer credits into a bachelor’s degree.
- East Coast Polytechnic Institute University | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. In this program, you will learn applications of mechanical engineering technology, prepare technical reports and documentation, and how to use your mechanical engineering technology skills in solving real-world problems.
- Lone Star College | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This program is composed of 60 credits courses such as Electric Circuits, Programming for Engineers, Engineering Graphics, and Engineering Mechanics. You can complete this program over two years.
- Seminole State College of Florida| Mechanical Engineering Pathway Associate in Arts. This associate degree in mechanical engineering is a 60-credit program that includes courses in Engineering Analysis, Statistics, and Engineering.
- Ivy Tech Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Production and Operations. This two-year program will require you to complete 60 credits of courses. Its curriculum includes Lean Manufacturing, CNC Operations, Production Technology, capstone, and elective courses.
Most Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s Degrees
- Old Dominion University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. This ABET-Accredited program will allow you to qualify for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. This will help you take a licensure examination and be a professional engineer.
- The University of Alabama | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The program’s curriculum includes 37credit hours of General Education courses, six credit hours of Computer courses, nine credit hours of Mechanical Engineering and Technical Electives, and 49 credit hours of Mechanical Engineering Core courses.
- University of North Dakota | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This program will require you to take 39 credits of Mechanical Engineering required courses, 21 credits of Technical Electives, and 20 credits of College of Engineering and Mines requirements.
- Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. In this program, you will study sensors, control devices, and mechanical devices. Its curriculum also includes Programming, CAD techniques, Statistics, and Rapid Prototyping. This program also received accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
- Indiana State University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. Indiana State University offers an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering that will teach you mechanical design and management skills. It requires 120 credits of courses that you can finish in four years.
Most Affordable Online Mechanical Engineering Master’s Degrees
- University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Enrolling in this program will teach you GPS navigation, mathematical methods for mechanical engineering, and applications of mechanical engineering. You will also need to take core courses and electives. This program doesn’t require GRE for applications.
- University of Michigan – Dearborn | Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. In this program, students learn fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, powertrains, and heat transfer. To earn this degree, you must earn a minimum grade of B in every course and maintain at least a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Purdue University | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This graduate degree curriculum includes courses in math, electives, design, fluid mechanics, dynamics and vibration, heat and mass transfer, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, systems, measurements, and controls.
- Missouri University of Science And Technology | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The thesis option of this program will require you to complete lecture courses, a research course, math, computer science or statistics courses, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department (MAE) lecture courses, Applied Computational Methods course, and 6000-level lecture courses. The non–thesis option will require you to take MAE courses and 6000-level lecture courses.
- University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign | Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. This program at the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign consists of 32 credits courses that you can complete for two years. You can also choose from its six tracks such as Manufacturing, Energy, and Biomechanics.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Mechanical Engineering Jobs With an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree
| Mechanical Engineering Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineers | Bachelor’s Degree | 14% |
| Petroleum Engineers | Bachelor’s Degree | 8% |
| Aerospace Engineers | Bachelor’s Degree | 8% |
| Mechanical Engineers | Bachelor’s Degree | 7% |
| Biomedical Engineers | Bachelor’s Degree | 6% |
Best Jobs With an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Explained
Earning an online mechanical engineering degree will help you reach your professional goals and qualify you for numerous rewarding careers in mechanical engineering fields. Mechanical engineering occupations offer job satisfaction and great annual salaries. Some of the most in-demand jobs for mechanical engineers are industrial engineers, petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, and biomedical engineers.
Is an Online Mechanical Engineering Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online mechanical engineering degree is worth it because it will allow you to learn mechanical engineering and earn a degree at a lower cost. The most affordable online mechanical engineering degree programs are suitable for you if you are a working professional who wants to level up your career. Online programs are also a practical choice for those who can study independently.
Additional Reading About Mechanical Engineering
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Cheapest Online Mechanical Engineering Degrees FAQ
Yes, you can learn mechanical engineering at home through online courses and online programs. These will allow you to study mechanical engineering at your convenience anywhere. There is also self-paced learning where you can teach yourself mechanical engineering. As long as you have appropriate devices, stable Internet, and determination, you can learn mechanical engineering at home.
The companies that hire mechanical engineers are NASA, Apple, Google, Johnson & Johnson, Ford Motor Company, Microsoft, and Tesla, among many others. These prestigious companies offer high pay, great working experience, and generous benefits packages, which can include life insurance, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) plan, and more. Working at NASA, Apple, Google, and other similar companies come with impressive benefits.
There are lots of available mechanical engineering courses and MOOCs on the Internet that will allow you to study mechanical engineering at home for free. You can also find many video tutorials on YouTube about mechanical engineering such as AutoCAD tutorials, SolidWorks tutorials, mechanical engineering for beginners, and engineering drawing.
To apply for mechanical engineering jobs, you can look for openings on sites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed, or directly on a company’s website. Carefully review all the qualifications. Most jobs will require you to fill out an online application form and provide your contact info, educational background, and previous work experience. You will also need to submit documents such as a cover letter and resume.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
