Rochester Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The master's programme builds on core mechanical engineering foundations while allowing specialisation through elective tracks and research. Students typically complete advanced modules in areas such as:

• Solid mechanics and advanced dynamics: elasticity, plasticity, vibration, multibody systems and structural analysis.
• Thermal-fluid sciences: heat transfer, fluid dynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and thermal systems design.
• Design and manufacturing: computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), design optimisation, and advanced manufacturing including additive manufacturing and machining processes.
• Controls and robotics: control systems, mechatronics, embedded systems and autonomous systems engineering.
• Materials and processing: materials selection, characterization techniques and the behaviour of engineering materials under service conditions.
• Modelling and simulation: numerical methods, multiphysics simulation and data-driven modelling for engineering systems.

Programme options commonly include coursework-only and thesis or project routes. The thesis route emphasises original research and is supervised within a faculty research group; the project or coursework route focuses on advanced technical electives and may include a substantial capstone design experience. Students have access to laboratory facilities for experimental mechanics, materials characterisation, additive manufacturing, robotics and control, and high-performance computing for simulation work.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering or physics discipline. Typical academic preparation includes undergraduate coursework in calculus, differential equations, mechanics (statics and dynamics), thermodynamics, materials science and basic circuits or control for mechatronics pathways.

Standard application materials include:

• Official academic transcripts from prior institutions.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals and intended area of focus.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant experience and skills.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the university).

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores depending on programme requirements and background. Applicants with non‑engineering degrees but strong quantitative experience may be admitted conditionally and be required to complete prerequisite undergraduate courses.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue a broad range of technical and leadership roles in industry, government and academia. Typical positions include:

• Design engineer or mechanical systems engineer working on product development and design validation.
• Manufacturing and process engineer focusing on production optimisation, automation and additive manufacturing.
• Thermal systems or fluid systems engineer in energy, HVAC, aerospace and automotive sectors.
• Controls, robotics and mechatronics engineer for automation, robotics, and embedded systems applications.
• Research and development engineer in corporate R&D labs or national research centres, and preparation for doctoral study for careers in academia.

RIT's emphasis on hands-on experience and industry partnerships helps graduates move into roles that require practical lab skills, simulation and prototyping expertise, and the ability to integrate multidisciplinary teams.

Why study at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT combines a strong applied-engineering curriculum with extensive experiential learning opportunities. The university is known for its cooperative education and industry engagement, enabling students to gain practical work experience and professional contacts. On-campus research centres and specialised laboratories support student research in areas such as advanced manufacturing, robotics, thermal sciences and materials engineering.

Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty with industry and research experience, and access to state-of-the-art facilities for fabrication, testing and simulation. The programme’s flexible structure—allowing thesis, project or coursework pathways—lets candidates tailor their studies to career goals ranging from immediate industry employment to preparation for PhD study.