Graduate Education

Our graduate program emphasizes not only depth in fundamental mechanical engineering disciplines, but also an interdisciplinary approach to understanding technologies where mechanical engineers can and should take a leading role. It is this combined emphasis on fundamentals, the ability to think and work outside of one's area of expertise and the ability to frame complex problems that best defines our graduate program.

Whether pursuing a Master’s degree or a Ph.D., the Carnegie Mellon mechanical engineering graduate student participates in an intense program designed to hone professional skills and talents. Academic activity is balanced with hands-on research opportunities to create an interdisciplinary approach to problem solving. It is this combined emphasis on fundamentals, the ability to think and work outside of one's area of expertise and the ability to frame complex problems that best defines our graduate program. 

Graduate Research Activities
Research is an important component of graduate education. In contrast to graduate courses, which typically consider multiple topics or applications, your research allows you to learn by studying a single problem in-depth, in close collaboration with a faculty member. Much of our research activity can be loosely categorized into the discipline areas as listed in the Graduate Degree Programs section. Visit those links for a brief description of that area as well as a sample course of study for graduate student.

Research Areas & Faculty
Research projects of individual faculty are described under links for each faculty member on our Faculty Directory. A concise one-page listing of research topics in the department is contained in the Research Areas form we have applicants to our graduate program fill out as part of their application package. (see online submission )

For More Information
Our diverse student body currently includes post-doctoral researchers, part-time students and over 100 full-time graduate students. At the graduate level, the department offers both one-year course work and two-year research oriented Master's degrees, as well as a research-oriented Ph.D. degree. Our high faculty/student ratio makes for a close-knit and exciting environment for research and mentoring. For more information on degree options and the application process, students are encouraged to contact the Graduate Admissions Office directly.

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