University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines core mechanical engineering topics with advanced electives and a choice of thesis or non‑thesis options. Typical core and advanced subject areas include:

• Advanced Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer – studies of convective, conductive and radiative heat transfer and their application in energy systems and propulsion.
• Fluid Mechanics and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) – continuum mechanics, turbulence modelling and numerical simulation techniques.
• Solid Mechanics and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) – stress analysis, stability, fracture mechanics and computational methods for structural design.
• Dynamics, Controls and Robotics – modelling of mechanical systems, control theory, mechatronics and robotic systems design.
• Advanced Manufacturing and Materials – manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing, materials selection and failure analysis.
• Energy Systems and Sustainability – design and analysis of power systems, HVAC, renewable energy integration and systems optimisation.
• Research Methods and Computational Tools – applied numerical methods, optimisation, programming for engineering and laboratory techniques.

Students typically complete a combination of graduate coursework and either a supervised research thesis or a project/capstone sequence for the non‑thesis option. The programme normally requires around 30 credit hours, with variations depending on the chosen route and prior coursework.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering or scientific discipline. Typical requirements include:

• A transcript demonstrating satisfactory undergraduate performance; a competitive GPA is normally expected.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests or professional goals and how the programme aligns with them.
• Two or three academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant’s technical ability and potential for graduate study.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency (for example TOEFL or IELTS) in line with university regulations.
• Depending on the applicant’s background, the department may require prerequisite undergraduate coursework in areas such as calculus, differential equations, mechanics, thermodynamics and basic fluid mechanics; bridge courses can sometimes be assigned.

Some applicants may be asked to submit a CV/resumé and examples of academic work or a portfolio. Standardised tests such as the GRE are sometimes considered but are not universally required; check the department’s admissions guidance for current practice.

Career prospects

Graduates from the master’s programme move into a wide range of technical and leadership roles across industry and research. Common career paths include:

• Design and application engineering in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, defence and industrial machinery.
• Research and development roles in energy, propulsion, thermal systems and advanced manufacturing.
• Systems engineering, controls and automation positions in robotics and mechatronics.
• Manufacturing engineering and process optimisation in production and additive manufacturing environments.
• Consulting and technical project management for engineering services firms.
• Continuation to doctoral study for careers in academia or specialised research institutes.

Students benefit from UND’s connections with regional industry and research centres, which can support internships, applied projects and pathways into employment across the Upper Midwest and beyond.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a focused graduate environment with access to modern laboratories, computational resources and hands‑on experimental facilities. The engineering faculty maintains active research programmes across thermal‑fluid science, materials and manufacturing, dynamics and controls, and energy systems, enabling students to pursue applied and fundamental research under experienced supervisors.

UND’s collaborative links with regional research organisations and industry—particularly in energy and aerospace—create opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and real‑world experience. Small cohort sizes allow for close faculty mentorship, and the campus community in Grand Forks provides a supportive, affordable setting for graduate study with access to professional development and career services tailored to engineers.