Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, MS

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Oklahoma State University

Program Overview

Oklahoma State University (OSU) offers a Master of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering for students who want to deepen their engineering knowledge and prepare for advanced technical and research-oriented careers. The program combines graduate-level coursework with independent research, allowing students to investigate complex engineering challenges and develop specialized expertise.

Students can tailor their studies to their interests through graduate courses, technical electives, and thesis research. The university also offers an option with an Unmanned Aerial Systems (UMAS) concentration for students interested in unmanned aircraft technologies and related aerospace applications.

Curriculum Structure

The standard MS program requires 30 credit hours, comprising 18 hours of graduate-level Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering courses, 6 hours of technical electives, and 6 hours of thesis research. The UMAS concentration also requires 30 credit hours, with a different distribution that includes dedicated unmanned aerial systems coursework and thesis research.

Year 1

Students typically begin by completing graduate-level coursework in their chosen areas of mechanical or aerospace engineering. Depending on their research interests and approved plan of study, they may explore subjects such as advanced fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, propulsion, or guidance and control of aerospace vehicles.

Year 2

Students advance their research through thesis work under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Those in the Unmanned Aerial Systems concentration may take courses such as MAE 5963 – Unmanned Aerial Systems Design and Analysis, MAE 5923 – Guidance and Control of Aerospace Vehicles, and MAE 5973 – Unmanned Aerial Systems Propulsion. Students complete their research thesis and oral defense, with the MS program also requiring submission of a conference or journal paper for publication.

Focus Areas

Aerospace and Mechanical Thermal Systems: Explore thermal engineering, fluid flow, and energy-related engineering challenges.
Aerodynamics and Fluid Mechanics: Study aerodynamic performance, advanced fluid dynamics, and flow behavior.
Propulsion and Power: Investigate propulsion technologies and power systems for aerospace applications.
Guidance and Control: Develop knowledge of flight control, vehicle dynamics, and autonomous flight systems.
Unmanned Aerial Systems: Explore the design, analysis, propulsion, and control of unmanned aircraft.
Experimental Fluid Mechanics and Flow Control: Investigate fluid behavior and techniques for understanding or influencing complex flows.

These areas reflect course offerings and faculty research interests within the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates can develop the ability to:

Apply advanced engineering principles to complex mechanical and aerospace problems.
Analyze fluid flow, aerodynamic performance, propulsion, and engineering systems.
Design and evaluate unmanned aerial systems and related technologies.
Conduct independent research, interpret technical results, and communicate findings.
Develop specialized expertise through graduate coursework and faculty-supervised thesis research.

Professional Alignment and Accreditation

The program is research-oriented and is designed to help students build advanced technical and analytical skills for engineering careers and further academic study. The thesis pathway includes supervised research, a written thesis, an oral defense, and a paper submitted for publication. Students should verify the accreditation status of the specific graduate degree with the university if professional or licensing requirements make this important.

Reputation and Employability

Oklahoma State University offers the program at its Stillwater and Tulsa campuses, giving students options for where to pursue their graduate studies. Graduate students may also have opportunities to work on faculty-led, funded research projects and compete for research or teaching assistantships, depending on their qualifications and available funding. The university’s research activities and specialized Unmanned Aerial Systems concentration can be particularly relevant for students interested in aerospace technology and applied engineering research.

Graduates may pursue roles such as mechanical engineer, aerospace engineer, aerodynamicist, propulsion engineer, flight-control engineer, unmanned aerial systems engineer, or research and development engineer. Career opportunities will depend on the student's specialization, research experience, and professional background.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Oklahoma State University, the MS in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for successful careers in engineering. The program emphasizes experiential learning through collaborative projects, research opportunities, and industry partnerships, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the practical skills needed in today’s competitive job market.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the program:

- Advanced Laboratories: Students can work in specialized labs such as the Aerospace Engineering Lab, the Robotics Lab, and the Thermal-Fluids Lab, where they can conduct experiments and engage in research projects.

- Research Opportunities: The program encourages participation in research initiatives, allowing students to collaborate with faculty on innovative projects in areas like propulsion, materials science, and fluid dynamics.

- Software Proficiency: Students gain experience with industry-standard software tools such as ANSYS for simulation, MATLAB for numerical analysis, and SolidWorks for 3D modeling, which are essential for modern engineering practices.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of the curriculum, fostering teamwork and communication skills as students tackle real-world engineering challenges together.

- Internships and Co-ops: The program has strong ties with industry partners, providing students with internship and co-op opportunities that offer valuable work experience and networking connections.

- Field Trips: Students often participate in field trips to local industries and research facilities, giving them insights into practical applications of their studies and exposure to potential employers.

- Libraries and Research Institutes: Access to the Edmon Low Library and various research institutes on campus supports students in their academic pursuits and research endeavors.

- Student Organizations: Joining organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) allows students to engage in extracurricular activities that enhance their learning and professional development.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enrich the academic experience but also prepare students for successful careers in mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Consider applying to the MS Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program at OSU to take advantage of these incredible opportunities!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master’s in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Oklahoma State University opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as aerospace engineer, mechanical design engineer, systems engineer, and research and development engineer. The skills and knowledge gained here not only prepare you for immediate employment but also set the stage for a successful and fulfilling career in a rapidly evolving field.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: Oklahoma State offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals. The Engineering Career Services office specifically connects students with potential employers and internship opportunities.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The employment rate for graduates in engineering disciplines is consistently high, with many securing jobs before graduation. According to recent data, the average starting salary for graduates in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is around $80,000, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Oklahoma State has established partnerships with leading companies in the aerospace and mechanical sectors, such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. These collaborations often lead to internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance your learning experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards of quality and is recognized by employers worldwide.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from this program have gone on to work for top-tier companies and have also pursued further studies in prestigious Ph.D. programs, showcasing the strong foundation provided by Oklahoma State.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master’s in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in a specialized area of engineering or related fields. This advanced degree can lead to opportunities in academia, research, and high-level industry positions, allowing you to contribute to innovative projects and advancements in technology.

Choosing Oklahoma State University for your graduate studies means investing in a future filled with possibilities. The combination of a strong curriculum, supportive services, and industry connections will empower you to achieve your career goals and make a significant impact in the engineering world.