University of Dayton

What you'll study

The programme combines coursework and research or project work to develop analytical, experimental and computational competence in mechanical engineering. Students typically choose between a thesis (research) option and a non-thesis (project/coursework) option, allowing focus on academic research, applied design or professional development.

• Core topics: advanced mechanics of materials, dynamics and vibrations, heat transfer and thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and computational methods.
• Specialist areas: students can specialise in areas such as structural mechanics, thermal-fluids, machine design, controls and robotics, materials engineering, and computational modelling/finite element analysis.
• Laboratory and experimental work: laboratory courses and research projects make use of the department's facilities for materials testing, fluid and thermal laboratories, CAD/CAM, rapid prototyping and machining workshops.
• Computational and design practice: emphasis on finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), system modelling and use of industry-standard software for component and system design.
• Research and capstone: thesis students undertake supervised research leading to a dissertation; non-thesis students complete a capstone design project or applied research project demonstrating problem-solving and design integration.

Typical modules and activities

• Advanced Solid Mechanics or Fracture Mechanics
• Advanced Fluid Mechanics or CFD
• Heat Transfer and Thermal Systems
• Design of Mechanical Systems or Advanced Machine Design
• Control Systems and Mechatronics
• Numerical Methods and Computational Techniques
• Graduate Seminar and Professional Development

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related engineering discipline from an accredited institution. Typical academic preparation includes undergraduate coursework in mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials and mathematics (calculus, differential equations).

Additional considerations that strengthen an application include relevant industry experience, a satisfactory undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining research or career objectives, and, for international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency. Applicants whose background does not fully meet the requirements may be advised to take prerequisite undergraduate courses before or during the early part of the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the master's programme go on to technical and leadership roles in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy and utilities, manufacturing, defence, medical devices and instrumentation, and consulting. Common job titles include mechanical design engineer, research and development engineer, thermal systems engineer, project engineer, systems analyst, and controls/mechatronics engineer.

Those pursuing the thesis route frequently continue to doctoral study or enter research-intensive roles in industry and government laboratories. The programme also supports engineers aiming for professional registration and roles that require advanced analytical or modelling skills.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering offers a balance of hands-on laboratory experience, applied research and industry-relevant coursework. The programme benefits from access to well-equipped labs, prototyping and fabrication facilities, and collaborative research centres that partner with local and regional industry.

Smaller class sizes enable close mentorship from faculty who are active in research and applied projects, while connections with regional manufacturers and research organisations provide internship and employment pathways. The university's emphasis on experiential learning and multidisciplinary collaboration helps graduates develop practical skills and professional readiness for modern engineering roles.