Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme offers a mix of core and elective courses together with laboratory experience and the option of a thesis or project-based track. Core topics typically include advanced mechanics, dynamics and control, heat transfer and fluid mechanics, solid mechanics, and materials science. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as robotics and autonomous systems, computational methods and simulation, thermal systems and energy conversion, micro‑/nano‑systems and MEMS, and biomechanics.

Students undertake practical work in departmental facilities and research laboratories that support experimental testing, computational modelling and materials characterisation. Depending on the chosen route, study will combine graduate-level seminars, individual research under faculty supervision, and team design projects. The programme is designed to be completed with a focused set of advanced technical courses and either a research thesis, a capstone design project, or a coursework-only plan with a technical report component.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering, physics or applied mathematics discipline. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong quantitative preparation in mathematics, mechanics, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.

• Official academic transcripts from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals and areas of research or technical interest.
• Letters of recommendation, usually two to three, from academic or professional referees who can speak to research or technical capability.
• A current résumé or curriculum vitae detailing relevant experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, in accordance with the university's requirements.

Additional materials such as GRE scores may be optional or recommended in particular circumstances; applicants with substantial professional experience or prior graduate coursework are considered on their full academic and professional record. Exceptional applicants with strong research potential may be considered for admission to research tracks or direct progression to doctoral study.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for technical and leadership roles across industry, government and academia. Common career paths include mechanical design engineer, R&D engineer, systems and controls engineer, thermal and HVAC engineer, materials or process engineer, robotics and automation engineer, and biomechanical or medical device engineer.

Alumni find employment in sectors such as aerospace and defence, automotive and transportation, energy and power generation, advanced manufacturing, medical devices and healthcare technology, and software and simulation companies. The programme also provides a solid foundation for students who pursue doctoral study and careers in research and higher education.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering combines focused graduate teaching with active, faculty-led research. Students benefit from access to well‑equipped laboratories for experimental mechanics, thermal‑fluids, robotics, materials characterisation and high‑performance computing for simulation and data‑driven modelling.

The university’s location provides strong opportunities for collaboration with nearby research and clinical institutions as well as industry partners, enhancing options for internships, joint research projects and technology translation. Graduate students are supported by faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary centres, and university resources for entrepreneurship and professional development, enabling applied research experiences and clear pathways into industry or academic careers.