Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The Master of Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology combines advanced technical coursework with applied design and systems work. Program structure typically includes a set of core engineering courses that build analytical and modelling skills, discipline-specific electives, and a culminating experience in the form of a project or thesis. Core topics commonly studied across specialisations include advanced mathematics and numerical methods, systems engineering and integration, engineering design and optimisation, materials and manufacturing processes, and research methods.

• Core modules – Advanced engineering mathematics, systems modelling and simulation, design methodology, professional engineering practice.
• Specialist modules – Depending on the chosen concentration (for example mechanical, electrical, industrial, or systems engineering), students select electives such as control systems, robotics and mechatronics, power electronics, embedded systems, advanced materials, fluid dynamics, thermofluids, reliability engineering, and manufacturing systems.
• Capstone / thesis – Students complete a substantial applied project or a research thesis supervised by faculty. Projects often partner with industry or use RIT’s labs and centres for hands-on prototyping and testing.
• Flexible delivery – The programme can be taken full-time or part-time; some courses and specialisations are available in on-campus and blended formats to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in engineering, technology, or a closely related scientific discipline from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include official academic transcripts, a current CV or resume, a personal statement outlining academic and professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Candidates with significant relevant professional experience but a non-engineering undergraduate degree may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or provide evidence of prior education in English; specific score thresholds and accepted tests are listed by the university. RIT may also require additional preparatory coursework for applicants whose undergraduate training did not cover key engineering fundamentals. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) may vary by year or specialisation, so applicants should check the programme requirements before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of RIT’s Master of Engineering enter a wide range of technical and leadership roles across industry, government and research. Typical job titles include design engineer, systems or controls engineer, manufacturing or process engineer, test and validation engineer, project engineer, and engineering manager. The degree also prepares graduates for roles in product development, quality and reliability engineering, automation and robotics, and technical consulting.

Alumni often move into positions that combine technical responsibilities with project leadership or business-facing duties; others use the programme as a stepping stone to doctoral study. RIT’s strong employer connections, career services and co-operative education network help students access internships and graduate roles with regional and national engineering employers.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT is known for its applied, career-focused approach to engineering education, emphasising experiential learning and industry collaboration. The university’s engineering programmes benefit from well-equipped laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres and partnerships with local and global companies, giving students practical opportunities to build prototypes, run experiments and participate in sponsored projects.

Small class sizes, faculty with industry and research experience, and an active career services team help students develop technical depth and professional skills sought by employers. The institution’s flexible study options and support for part-time or working students make the Master of Engineering a practical choice for those seeking to advance technical expertise while maintaining career commitments.