Santa Clara University - School of Engineering

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

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What makes SCU Engineering's
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Different!

Mandatory Graduate Core Curriculum in Societal and Ethical Engineering

Unlike conventional mechanical engineering programs, SCU’s MSME requires completion of a 6-unit graduate core explicitly focused on global responsibilities, ethical decision-making, and societal impact. This requirement compels students to integrate Jesuit values into technical problem-solving through courses such as Engineering and Society and Emerging Topics in Ethical Design. For example, students analyze case studies involving AI-driven manufacturing systems, assessing environmental justice implications alongside technical feasibility. This core ensures graduates are uniquely equipped to lead projects that balance innovation with moral accountability—a critical differentiator in industries like medical devices or renewable energy.

Seven Niche Technical Concentrations, Including Space Systems

The program offers seven specialized technical tracks, a rare breadth unmatched by peer institutions. Beyond standard focuses like thermofluids or materials engineering, SCU provides Space Systems Engineering—a concentration addressing orbital mechanics, satellite design, and propulsion systems. This track leverages partnerships with NASA/Ames and Lockheed Martin for capstone projects, such as designing CubeSat components for low-earth orbit missions. Additionally, the Theoretical and Computational Mechanics concentration trains students in advanced finite element analysis (FEA) and computational geometry, with required courses like CENG 205-207 (Finite Element Methods I-III) and MECH 325 (Computational Geometry for CAD). Such granular specialization allows graduates to enter niche sectors like hypersonic vehicle design or microgravity material science.

Publication Mandate for Engineer’s Degree Candidates

SCU’s Engineer’s Degree Program—a post-master’s credential—requires candidates to publish original research in a peer-reviewed journal before graduation. This mandate, absent in most U.S. mechanical engineering programs, ensures students contribute novel advancements to their field. For instance, recent graduates published work on shape-memory alloy applications in deep-sea robotics, supported by $1.3M in grants. The department’s collaboration with NOAA and DOD provides access to classified datasets, enabling research on marine autonomous systems that few universities can replicate. This requirement cultivates a culture of academic rigor and industry relevance, positioning graduates as thought leaders.

Just-in-Time Modular Learning and Industry-Led Coaching

The program employs a dynamic teaching methodology combining small-group coaching, problem-driven seminars, and modular “just-in-time” tutorials. Adjunct faculty from Silicon Valley firms like Tesla and Applied Materials deliver real-time case studies—such as optimizing battery thermal management systems for electric vehicles—during evening workshops. For example, the Mechatronics Systems Engineering certificate program integrates weekly industry challenges, where students troubleshoot robotic assembly lines using SCU’s Robotic Systems Laboratory. This approach ensures coursework remains aligned with cutting-edge industry practices, a feature particularly valuable in fast-evolving fields like additive manufacturing.

Stackable Certificates with Full Academic Credit Portability

SCU offers six graduate certificates (e.g., Controls, Thermofluids) that can be completed in 8–12 months and fully applied toward the MSME degree. This “stackable” model allows working professionals to earn credentials incrementally while maintaining full-time employment. For instance, a semiconductor engineer might first complete the Materials Engineering Certificate to address wafer fabrication challenges, then pursue the Mechanical Design Analysis Certificate to transition into R&D roles—all while accumulating credit toward the full master’s. Unlike peer programs, SCU guarantees 100% credit transfer between certificates and the degree, eliminating redundant coursework.

Know More about the SCU Engineering Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Program

Santa Clara Universitys Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering provides advanced training in robotics, thermofluids, and materials science. Located in Silicon Valley, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and industry collaboration. Graduates are prepared for innovative careers in aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. ..... Read More

Duration

24 Months

How does the Class Profile of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Program look like?

Average Class Size

27

Average Age

25.4

Average Work Experience

2.6

Want to See Who You'll Be Learning With?

Explore detailed class demographics, academic backgrounds, and industry experiences that define your future classmates.

Where do graduates of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program land? Discover More!

Median Earnings after Graduation

USD 90,000/- year

Graduation Rate

89.70 %

Recruiters

Tesla Ford Motor Company General Motors John Deere Caterpillar GE Aviation SpaceX Boeing Raytheon Northrop Grumman Siemens Honeywell Medtronic 3M Lockheed Martin

Prospective Job Roles

Mechanical Design Engineer Thermal Engineer HVAC Engineer CAD Engineer Product Development Engineer Manufacturing Engineer Robotics Engineer Automotive Systems Engineer Acoustics Engineer Mechatronics Engineer CFD Engineer Finite Element Analyst Materials Engineer Aerospace Mechanical Engineer Tooling Engineer 3D Printing Engineer Maintenance Engineer Stress Analyst Testing & Validation Engineer Systems Integration Engineer

Eligibility Criteria for SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering in Management program ?

Credential Evaluation Requirement

Mandatory English Proficiency Test

Mandatory GRE / GMAT Requirement

4 Year Bachelor’s Degree Requirement

Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities!

Tuition Fees

USD 43416/- PER YEAR

Application Fee

USD 95/-

Scholarship Opportunities upto

USD 6 Million

Connect with SCU Engineering’s
current graduate students in one click...

Want the Inside Scoop from Students?

Discover real experiences, day-in-the-life stories, and tips from students currently enrolled in the program.

SCU Engineering's Global Alumni

Wondering Where This Program Can Take You?

See the impact through successful alumni—where they’re working, what they’re doing, and how this program helped shape their journey.

Upcoming SCU Engineering Events

We will be back Soon with Upcoming Events

On Demand Events

img-blur-shadow

Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage: The Ohlone AR Tour at Santa Clara University

Bridging History, Technology, and Career Paths: An Immersive Exploration of Ohlone Culture and Alumni Insights on Navigating the U.S. Job Market""
Register to access the video

Know More about the SCU Engineering Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Program

Santa Clara Universitys Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering provides advanced training in robotics, thermofluids, and materials science. Located in Silicon Valley, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and industry collaboration. Graduates are prepared for innovative careers in aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. ..... Read More

Duration

24 Months

How does the Class Profile of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Program look like?

Average Class Size

27

Average Age

25.4

Average Work Experience

2.6

Want to See Who You'll Be Learning With?

Explore detailed class demographics, academic backgrounds, and industry experiences that define your future classmates.

Where do graduates of SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program land? Discover More!

Median Earnings after Graduation

USD 90,000/- year

Graduation Rate

89.70 %

Recruiters

Tesla Ford Motor Company General Motors John Deere Caterpillar GE Aviation SpaceX Boeing Raytheon Northrop Grumman Siemens Honeywell Medtronic 3M Lockheed Martin

Prospective Job Roles

Mechanical Design Engineer Thermal Engineer HVAC Engineer CAD Engineer Product Development Engineer Manufacturing Engineer Robotics Engineer Automotive Systems Engineer Acoustics Engineer Mechatronics Engineer CFD Engineer Finite Element Analyst Materials Engineer Aerospace Mechanical Engineer Tooling Engineer 3D Printing Engineer Maintenance Engineer Stress Analyst Testing & Validation Engineer Systems Integration Engineer

Eligibility Criteria for SCU Engineering's Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering in Management program ?

Credential Evaluation Requirement

Mandatory English Proficiency Test

Mandatory GRE / GMAT Requirement

4 Year Bachelor’s Degree Requirement

Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities!

Tuition Fees

USD 43416/- PER YEAR

Application Fee

USD 95/-

Scholarship Opportunities upto

USD 6 Million

What makes SCU Engineering's
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering Different!

Mandatory Graduate Core Curriculum in Societal and Ethical Engineering

Unlike conventional mechanical engineering programs, SCU’s MSME requires completion of a 6-unit graduate core explicitly focused on global responsibilities, ethical decision-making, and societal impact. This requirement compels students to integrate Jesuit values into technical problem-solving through courses such as Engineering and Society and Emerging Topics in Ethical Design. For example, students analyze case studies involving AI-driven manufacturing systems, assessing environmental justice implications alongside technical feasibility. This core ensures graduates are uniquely equipped to lead projects that balance innovation with moral accountability—a critical differentiator in industries like medical devices or renewable energy.

Seven Niche Technical Concentrations, Including Space Systems

The program offers seven specialized technical tracks, a rare breadth unmatched by peer institutions. Beyond standard focuses like thermofluids or materials engineering, SCU provides Space Systems Engineering—a concentration addressing orbital mechanics, satellite design, and propulsion systems. This track leverages partnerships with NASA/Ames and Lockheed Martin for capstone projects, such as designing CubeSat components for low-earth orbit missions. Additionally, the Theoretical and Computational Mechanics concentration trains students in advanced finite element analysis (FEA) and computational geometry, with required courses like CENG 205-207 (Finite Element Methods I-III) and MECH 325 (Computational Geometry for CAD). Such granular specialization allows graduates to enter niche sectors like hypersonic vehicle design or microgravity material science.

Publication Mandate for Engineer’s Degree Candidates

SCU’s Engineer’s Degree Program—a post-master’s credential—requires candidates to publish original research in a peer-reviewed journal before graduation. This mandate, absent in most U.S. mechanical engineering programs, ensures students contribute novel advancements to their field. For instance, recent graduates published work on shape-memory alloy applications in deep-sea robotics, supported by $1.3M in grants. The department’s collaboration with NOAA and DOD provides access to classified datasets, enabling research on marine autonomous systems that few universities can replicate. This requirement cultivates a culture of academic rigor and industry relevance, positioning graduates as thought leaders.

Just-in-Time Modular Learning and Industry-Led Coaching

The program employs a dynamic teaching methodology combining small-group coaching, problem-driven seminars, and modular “just-in-time” tutorials. Adjunct faculty from Silicon Valley firms like Tesla and Applied Materials deliver real-time case studies—such as optimizing battery thermal management systems for electric vehicles—during evening workshops. For example, the Mechatronics Systems Engineering certificate program integrates weekly industry challenges, where students troubleshoot robotic assembly lines using SCU’s Robotic Systems Laboratory. This approach ensures coursework remains aligned with cutting-edge industry practices, a feature particularly valuable in fast-evolving fields like additive manufacturing.

Stackable Certificates with Full Academic Credit Portability

SCU offers six graduate certificates (e.g., Controls, Thermofluids) that can be completed in 8–12 months and fully applied toward the MSME degree. This “stackable” model allows working professionals to earn credentials incrementally while maintaining full-time employment. For instance, a semiconductor engineer might first complete the Materials Engineering Certificate to address wafer fabrication challenges, then pursue the Mechanical Design Analysis Certificate to transition into R&D roles—all while accumulating credit toward the full master’s. Unlike peer programs, SCU guarantees 100% credit transfer between certificates and the degree, eliminating redundant coursework.

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering's Current Students

Want the Inside Scoop from Students?

Discover real experiences, day-in-the-life stories, and tips from students currently enrolled in the program.

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering's Global Alumni

Wondering Where This Program Can Take You?

See the impact through successful alumni—where they’re working, what they’re doing, and how this program helped shape their journey.

Upcoming SCU Engineering Events

We will be back Soon with Upcoming Events

On Demand Events

img-blur-shadow

Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage: The Ohlone AR Tour at Santa Clara University

Bridging History, Technology, and Career Paths: An Immersive Exploration of Ohlone Culture and Alumni Insights on Navigating the U.S. Job Market""
Register to access the video

Connect with SCU Engineering's Faculty in one click ...

Curious About Who Will Be Teaching You?

Explore other SCU Engineering programs

Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering (MSAE)

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Bioengineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Civil Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Engineering Management and Leadership

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Power Systems and Sustainable Energy

Duration
24 MONTHS

Master of Science in Robotics and Automation

Duration
24 MONTHS
View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Get all your questions answered about Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering by SCU Engineering

Santa Clara University’s program focuses on areas such as robotics, thermofluids, computational mechanics, materials science, control systems, and sustainable energy systems.
Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a closely related discipline. Required documents include transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and optionally, GRE scores.
Yes, students can work in state-of-the-art labs and participate in cutting-edge research, with opportunities to collaborate with faculty and industry partners on real-world projects.
The university offers career services including resume workshops, interview prep, job fairs, and direct connections with top engineering firms located in Silicon Valley.
Yes, the MS in Mechanical Engineering is STEM-designated, which benefits international students through extended OPT and eligibility for specialized career opportunities.

Contact us

For any queries, please feel free to reach out to us!

email
Email

admission@scu.edu

call
Phone

+408-554-4600