The graduate programs are designed to provide a broad based extension of the undergraduate experience in combination with formal course work and research in the student's selected area of specialization. Independent research is required for both the M.S.M.E. and Ph.D. degrees. A non-thesis Master's degree is also available (M.E.M.). 

The research opportunities in the department cover essentially all fundamental fields of mechanical engineering including solid and fluid mechanics, materials, dynamics, thermodynamics and heat transfer. Applied and interdisciplinary areas such as bio-, rehabilitation and ocean-engineering, controls, robotics, and design are also well represented in the ongoing research. 

The department is housed in the Robert L. Spencer Laboratory containing modern facilities for a wide range of experimental programs. These include laboratories for aerodynamics and fluid mechanics, dynamics and vibration, coating science and technology, composite materials, heat transfer and thermodynamics, and materials science. Among the facilities are a particle image velocimeter, a three-dimensional laser-Doppler velocimeter, scanning and transmission electron microscopes, high-vacuum chambers, mechanical- and ballistic-impact-testing systems, robots, real-time DSP controllers, and extensive research-grade electronic instrumentation. A fully staffed and equipped machine shop with a CNC lathe and miller, and an instrument shop, with full-time technicians, support these facilities. 

A wide variety of computers and peripherals are available which are networked into the College of Engineering and University computers, and the EDU network. 

OBEC, the Orthopedic and Biomechanical Engineering Center, conducts research aimed at reducing musculoskeletal dysfunction. OBEC acts as a focus for researchers from engineering, sports science, physical therapy, and regional medical facilities. 

The Center for Composite Materials offers opportunities for students to work on basic and applied problems. Laboratories for research in polymer, metal, and ceramic matrix composites manufacturing, and nondestructive evaluation offer state-of-the-art experimental facilities. Work on problems relevant to industrial and manufacturing needs is fostered in the center. 

The following minimum criteria will normally be applied. Satisfaction of the minimum requirements will not guarantee admission to the program: 

1. A baccalaureate degree in mechanical engineering or in a closely allied field of science or mathematics. 
2. An undergraduate grade point average in engineering, science and mathematics courses of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. 
3. A minimum of at least three letters of strong support from former teachers or supervisors. 
4. A minimum combined Quantitative and Verbal score of 1050 in the Graduate Record Examination Aptitude Test. 
5. A minimum score of 550 in the Test of English as a Foreign Language for students whose first language is not English. This test is not required of students who have received an undergraduate or post-graduate degree from a College or University in which English is the sole language of instruction. 

Please refer to the chapter "Financial Aid" in this catalog. 

The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering degree requires a minimum of 24 credit hours of course work beyond the bachelor's degree and a thesis equivalent to 6 credits. The Master of Engineering: Mechanical degree requires the completion of 30 credit hours of course work beyond the bachelor's degree and does not require a thesis.  Courses for both degrees include applied mathematics, engineering analysis, solid and fluid mechanics, and materials science.

The doctoral program in mechanical engineering allows considerable flexibility in setting up a plan of study that best suits the student's individual needs and interests.  It is possible to pursue the Ph.D. degree directly after a bachelor's degree.