The Master of Mechanical Engineering (MME) is a non-thesis degree program designed for those who wish to work in industry after graduation. Students select a Specialization Area to obtain depth in industry-relevant topics such as Aerospace, Energy, Biomedical, or Robotics. The degree is typically completed in three or four semesters, and competitive merit-based scholarships are available.
Students interested in pursuing a research-oriented academic career should apply to PhD or MS program.
Program Director
Coursework Overview
The MME degree plan is designed to help students gain graduate-level breadth in foundational ME courses, while providing flexibility and depth in an industry-relevant Area of Specialization. Students also benefit from courses on Engineering Communication, and obtain project-based or research-based experience through the Applied Mechanical Engineering requirement.
| Category | Requirement | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations in ME | 3 courses | 9 |
| Engineering Communication | 1 course | 3 |
| Area of Specialization | 3 courses in one area | 9 |
| Applied Mechanical Engineering | 2 courses | 6 |
| ME Elective | 1 course | 3 |
| Total | 10 courses | 30 |
A student’s course of study is formulated with close consultation with the MME advisor. Detailed information on the course requirements and options is provided in the General Announcements.
Specialization Areas
MME students select one of the following Specialization Areas to deepen their technical expertise in industry-relevant focus areas.
| Aerospace Engineering | Bring your mechanical engineering skills to the aerospace industry by designing materials, structures, and systems for next-generation aerospace missions. |
| Biomedical Engineering | Design biomedical devices, sensors, and assistive technologies that lead to improved human health and wellbeing. |
| Energy | Improve the efficiency and performance of energy devices and systems using your training in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, tribology, and thermal-fluid sciences. |
| Robotics | Build, design, and control advanced robotic systems to enable applications ranging from manufacturing to health and aerospace. |
| Mechanical Engineering | Gain experience on diverse ME topics to explore different graduate-level career opportunities for MECH graduates. |
Applied Mechanical Engineering
MME students put their knowledge into practice by working on a two-semester capstone project (MECH 601/602) or an independent research project (MECH 621/622). This project-based learning structure allows MME students to demonstrate their creativity and technical expertise, preparing students to quickly contribute to real-world mechanical engineering projects.
Engineering Communication
MME students get a leg up on their competition in the workforce by leveraging their Engineering Communication training. Students work closely with Engineering Communication experts to level-up their written and oral communication skills, providing outstanding preparation for job interviews and success in industry.
Fifth-year Rice Students
Current Rice undergraduates can often complete the MME in two semesters, with sufficient planning and discussion with the MME advisor about the senior year undergraduate schedule. Merit scholarships are available. More information can be seen at “Fifth-Year Master’s Degree Option for Rice Undergraduate Students.”
Apply Now
Ready to apply? Visit our Graduate Admissions to review the requirements and submit your application to Rice University.