Graduate Studies in Mechanical Engineering at Tennessee Tech
The Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) degree program at Tennessee Tech provides students advanced engineering skills and state-of-the-art knowledge in selected areas for positions in industry or pursuing a PH.D. Students can focus their programs on a variety of different areas of interest to meet their specific career goals.
The master’s program offers both thesis and non-thesis options, and the non-thesis option can even be completed fully online!
THESIS OPTION
The thesis option is research oriented, requires students to write and successfully defend a thesis, and is intended to be completed in-person on campus. Graduate faculty work with students in advanced and in-depth studies in specific research areas, provide guidance in fundamental and applied research, help students develop powers of analysis, synthesis and critical thinking, and prepare students to follow academic and research careers through doctoral-level studies. Areas of interest for the thesis option include:
- Acoustics and Vibrations
- Design / Mechanical Systems
- Energy Harvesting / Smart Materials
- Energy Storage / Fuel Cells / Battery
- HVAC
- Material Characterization and Modeling
- Robotics / Mechatronics / Controls
- Thermal Science / Fluid Mechanics
NON-THESIS OPTION
The non-thesis option offers more flexibility in format, and students can pursue this degree program in-person on campus or fully online. The fully online option is a great way for working engineers to advance their careers and develop expertise in advanced topics. Our high-quality online program employs the same rigorous, accredited curriculum and experienced faculty as its on-campus version. Getting registered for classes is easy, as each graduate course has an online section. Once enrolled, students can choose to engage with courses with synchronous or asynchronous options. Designated areas of interest for the non-thesis option:
- Dynamical Systems and Controls
- Solid Mechanics and Materials
- Thermo-fluid Science
Tennessee Tech houses three state-supported Centers of Excellence: Center for Energy Systems Research (CESR), Center for Manufacturing Research (CMR), and the Center for the Management, Utilization and Protection of Water Resources (CWR). The three centers offer excellent research opportunities, the use of state-of-the-art equipment and funding for graduate students in engineering.
- This option requires 30 credit hours, which includes 22-24 credit hours of course work and 6-8 credit hours of thesis research.
- Funding from the ME Department may be available through the department in the form of Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA). Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) are awarded by individual faculty from their research grants/contracts.
- The time it takes to complete the M.S. degree depends on the thesis project, the advisor, and the student's motivation and work ethic.
- A great option for in-person students!
- This option requires 31 credit hours, which includes 30 hours of course work and the 1credit hour ME 6910 - Intro to Graduate Research course.
- There is no funding available through the department for this option.
- With proper planning, well-motivated students can complete the M.S. non-thesis degree in three semesters.
- Offers the flexibility of in-person and fully online options!
- Complete this degree fully online and around your schedule! All graduate courses have an online section for easy registration and will feature synchronous and asynchronus learning options.
- This option requires 31 credit hours, which includes 30 hours of course work and the 1credit hour ME 6910 - Intro to Graduate Research course.
- Funding is not available through the department for this option.
Expectations for Professionalism in Mechanical Engineering
Financial Support
A graduate degree is a valuable investment in your future. Tennessee Tech University, the College of Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering Department try to provide as many opportunities as possible for you to support your studies. Various funding opportunities include:
- Graduate Assistantships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Eagle Empower Fellowship
- Fellowships in Support of STEM Disciplines
For more info go to: Graduate Financial Aid
Faculty
The faculty members of the Mechanical Engineering Department are a group dedicated to graduate teaching and research. They provide meaningful research opportunities and guidance for graduate students. A complete listing of all faculty members in the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering can be found at: Mechanical Engineering Faculty and Staff
Dr. Ethan Languri elanguri@tntech.edu
Director of M.E. Graduate Programs
or
Dr. Mohan Rao mrao@tntech.edu
M.E. Department Chair
