M.S. in Aerospace Engineering
The M.S. in Aerospace Engineering at UCF is a 30-credit hour program, typically complet...
M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Orlando, Florida
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) at UCF requires a total of 30 graduate-level credit hours. It offers flexibility through both thesis and non-thesis options, catering to students interested in research-intensive careers or those aiming for direct industry application. Students can choose from three distinct tracks: Mechanical Systems, Thermofluids, and Guidance Control and Dynamics. There's also an accelerated B.S. to M.S. pathway for qualified undergraduates, allowing for the dual counting of graduate-level courses towards both degrees. The program aims to advance students' knowledge and skills in areas such as GPS navigation and guidance, mechanical systems, or thermodynamics, emphasizing the latest modeling and mathematical methods used in mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Curriculum: The MSME curriculum at UCF is structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation complemented by practical application. While specific required courses may vary slightly by track, common themes include advanced topics in dynamics, continuum mechanics, and classical thermodynamics. For example, the Mechanical Systems track delves into mathematical models, mechanics of materials, and engineering design. The Thermofluids track concentrates on heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and energy systems. The Guidance Control and Dynamics track focuses on courses related to guidance control and dynamics with applications in aerospace engineering. The curriculum emphasizes the synthesis of theory and application to solve complex mechanical engineering problems, ensuring graduates possess state-of-the-art knowledge.
Research Focus: Research is a central pillar of the MSME program at UCF, with faculty members actively engaged in diverse and cutting-edge investigations supported by local and national industry, as well as federal agencies. Key research areas within Mechanical Engineering at UCF include: Dynamics and Control, focusing on dynamic modeling and simulation, nonlinear systems, real-time simulation, and robust control; Mechanical Systems, encompassing computational mechanics, engineering design, mechanical properties of materials, plasticity and fracture, and structural impact; Thermofluids, with research in areas like adsorption cooling, desalination, energy systems (including wind energy), renewable energy utilization, heat transfer in various systems, hybrid fuel cells, microfluidics, phase change, and power plants; Materials, covering bulk metallic glasses, ceramics, mechanics of materials, modeling and simulation, nanomaterials and nanocomposites, and non-equilibrium processing; and Manufacturing, including additive manufacturing, AI-enabled smart manufacturing, lightweight design, metal sheet forming, micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), microfabrication, and nanoscale manufacturing.
Industry Engagement: UCF's Mechanical Engineering program boasts exceptionally strong industry engagement, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in prominent companies. UCF is recognized as a leading supplier of graduates to the aerospace and defense industries, with strong ties to major companies such as Lockheed Martin, Siemens, Northrop Grumman, Mitsubishi, Aerojet Rocketdyne, GE, and NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The university's location near the Central Florida Research Park, a hub for modeling, simulation, and training, further enhances internship and employment opportunities. Many faculty members have direct industry experience, and the curriculum is designed to be highly relevant to industry needs. Programs like the Cooperative Work Experience Program (CWEP) with companies like Lockheed Martin provide invaluable hands-on experience, putting students in a strong position for full-time employment post-graduation.
Global Perspective: A global perspective is an integral aspect of the M.S. in Mechanical Engineering program at UCF, reflecting the international nature of engineering challenges and technological advancements. UCF's Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering boasts an esteemed and diverse international faculty and a broad student body from around the world. This fosters a rich multicultural learning environment where students gain exposure to varied engineering philosophies and global industry practices. Research conducted within the department often addresses issues with global implications, such as renewable energy utilization, sustainable manufacturing, and advanced materials for global applications. The program prepares graduates to collaborate effectively in multinational teams and to contribute to solutions that transcend national borders in a globally interconnected engineering landscape.
Location
Orlando, Florida
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 21603
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $31
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden and recognize the outstanding achievements and potential of students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UCF provides merit-based scholarships for international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships are highly competitive and can significantly reduce tuition costs. Some notable merit scholarships include the Global Knight Scholarship, which is awarded to high-achieving international freshmen based on GPA and standardized test scores.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid is more limited for international students at UCF compared to domestic students, some resources may be available through external scholarship programs or private organizations. UCF encourages international students to explore scholarships offered by their home countries or international foundations.
College-Specific Scholarships: Several colleges within UCF offer scholarships tailored to students pursuing specific fields of study. For example, the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Business Administration have dedicated scholarships that international students can apply for based on merit, research potential, or career interests.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: International graduate students at UCF have access to various funding options, including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and graduate fellowships. These positions often provide tuition waivers and stipends, allowing students to gain valuable professional experience while funding their education.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Central Florida (UCF) offers graduates a significant advantage in a field that is fundamental to virtually every industry. This advanced degree builds upon undergraduate knowledge, providing deeper specialization and research capabilities in areas such as thermofluids, mechanical systems, and guidance control. UCF's strong ties to local industries, particularly aerospace and defense, further enhance career prospects for its mechanical engineering alumni.
Mechanical Design Engineer: This is a core role where graduates are responsible for the conceptualization, design, and development of a vast array of mechanical components and systems. This can involve anything from consumer products and industrial machinery to complex parts for aerospace vehicles or medical devices. An M.S. allows for more sophisticated design challenges, often incorporating advanced materials and simulation.
Thermal Engineer / HVAC Engineer: Specializing in heat transfer and fluid mechanics, these engineers design and optimize systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and refrigeration in buildings, vehicles, and electronic equipment. They also work on heat management in power plants and industrial processes.
Stress Analyst / Structural Engineer: Focusing on the integrity and behavior of mechanical structures under various loads and environmental conditions. They use advanced computational tools (like FEA) to analyze stress, strain, and fatigue, ensuring the safety and durability of components in aerospace, automotive, and construction industries.
Robotics Engineer: Combining mechanical design with control systems and automation, robotics engineers design, build, and program robots for a wide range of applications, including manufacturing automation, medical procedures, and exploration. An M.S. provides the depth needed for complex robotic systems.
Aerospace Mechanical Engineer: Working within the aerospace and defense industries, these engineers design and analyze components for aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and propulsion systems. Their expertise is crucial for optimizing performance, weight, and safety in extreme environments.
Automotive Engineer (R&D/Design): In the automotive sector, mechanical engineers contribute to the design and development of various vehicle systems, including engines, powertrains, chassis, braking systems, and HVAC. With an M.S., they often engage in research and development for new technologies like electric vehicles or autonomous driving systems.
Manufacturing Engineer (Advanced): Focused on optimizing manufacturing processes for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality. They design production layouts, select manufacturing equipment, implement automation, and solve production problems. An M.S. can lead to roles in advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing (3D printing).
Power Generation Engineer: Specializing in the design, operation, and maintenance of power plants (e.g., fossil fuel, nuclear, renewable energy sources like wind and solar). They work on turbines, generators, heat exchangers, and energy conversion systems to maximize efficiency and reliability.
Research & Development (R&D) Engineer: Often employed by large corporations, government labs, or universities, R&D engineers conduct cutting-edge research to develop new mechanical technologies, materials, and processes. This role is highly innovation-driven and can lead to patents and scientific publications.
Consulting Engineer: Mechanical engineers with an M.S. often provide specialized consulting services to a variety of clients. They offer expertise in areas like product design, process optimization, forensic engineering (investigating failures), energy efficiency, or HVAC system design for diverse industries.
