Mechanical Engineering

FLUIDS scaled
Master the principles of mechanical systems and engineering innovation with Iowa State University's Mechanical Engineering graduate program. Our program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in industry, research, and academia. Collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge studies in areas such as robotics, advanced materials, renewable energy systems, fluid mechanics, and biomechanics.
Program Homepage Program Handbook

We want to thank you for the opportunity to learn about your career goals and research interests and to highlight how our program can meet your needs. The Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) offers two major research degrees: a master of science (M.S.) or a doctoral degree (Ph.D.). Our graduate programs offer you the opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research directed at addressing global needs that positively impact society and individual lives. You will work closely with our accomplished faculty in state-of-the-art facilities to achieve scientific breakthroughs and innovative engineering solutions in core ME disciplines. The professional independence, creativity and leadership you will explore in our program will provide you with a rewarding educational experience highly sought after by industry and academia.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)

Area(s) of Specialization: (may appear on ISU transcripts after graduation)

  • Predictive Plant Phenomics (Ph.D.)

Area(s) of Emphasis:

  • Bioengineering
  • Cyberphysical Systems and AI
  • Complex Fluids
  • Advanced Manufacturing
  • Energy and Sustainability

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.6 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 2.0 years (Methods)
Online Degree Information

Bri Enearl

megradapp@iastate.edu
515-294-0838
If you do not have the ability to upload supplemental materials to your application please email a PDF to megradapp@iastate.edu. Please no paper materials.

Learning Goals

  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a broad knowledge in the field of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a deep understanding and expertise in one or more focus areas of Mechanical Engineering.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to develop and demonstrate a strong theoretical and/or experimental and/or computational background through their research projects.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to discuss and apply an understanding of the current literature in mechanical engineering and related disciplines.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to identify fundamental research problems and propose innovative solutions to these problems.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to plan and execute an original research project, analyze the relevant findings, and organize their results into a coherent argument.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to organize research findings into a coherent thesis and will produce scholarship (articles and/or books and/or conference paper) that appear in peer-reviewed venues.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to present and defend their research findings effectively through oral and written presentations and through the development of supporting materials.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to effectively communicate in written, verbal, and nonverbal methods to a broad range of audiences, including the ability to describe complex and technical materials or concepts.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate an understanding of current societal issues, particularly related to the mechanical engineering field.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.
  • Graduates with a PhD in Mechanical Engineering will be able to demonstrate a commitment to the thoughtful consideration of fundamental principles of ethical professional conduct.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 79 (for exams taken before January 21, 2026; 4.5 (for exams taken on or after January 21, 2026)
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo 115

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:
Fall: PhD and MS - February 7th
       MEng and Certificate - 4 weeks before semester begins (domestic applicants), 8 weeks before semester begins (international applicants)

Spring: PhD and MS - September 1st
            MEng and Certificate - 4 weeks before semester begins (domestic applicants), 8 weeks before semester begins (international applicants)

 

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

 

Graduate Admissions Application Information