Frequently Asked Questions
What degree would I earn through the Online Master's program?
- You would earn a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University, the same as our residential program students. Your diploma will not indicate you earned your degree online.
May I complete this program as a part-time student?
- Yes, you may complete the MSME program as a full time or part time student. A full-time student takes at least 8 semester credit hours every term; a part-time student takes less than 8 semester credit hours every term. As a full-time student, you may be able to complete this 30-hour program within 12 to 18 months. As a part time student, you may be able to complete the program within 2 to 5 years. If you need to take time off, you may take a maximum of 2 consecutive semesters.
Are there research opportunities available to online students?
- No. Online MS program students are in the non-thesis track.
Are scholarships or funding offered for Online MSME students?
- Scholarships and funding are not available; this program is a course-based self-funded Master's program. US Citizens and Permanent Residents are eligible for Federal Financial Aid. All federal financial aid benefits and restrictions apply to enrolled MS ME Engineering students. Federal aid enrollment requirements apply.
Can I switch to an on-campus (residential) program later?
- You will have to satisfy ME’s transfer requirements, including GPA requirements and submission of GRE scores. To transfer into thesis-track program, you’ll also need to find a ME research advisor and funding support. (A research advisor is not needed for transfer into the Professional Master’s Program.)
Can I access the same resources as on-campus students?
- Yes, you can access the same remote resources as on-campus students, including memberships, software downloads, organizations, etc. However, you would not have access to on-campus benefits like sports facilities or healthcare, since you do not pay the appropriate student fees to access them.
Can I visit the Purdue campus?
- Yes! You are welcome to visit the West Lafayette campus in-person, as well as virtually. Please note that faculty and staff tend to be very busy, so if you want to see specific people you need to reach out to them and make arrangements beforehand!
Are there career services or resources after graduation?
- Yes, students will have access through the Purdue Center for Career Opportunities (CCO). Here are links for more information on career services and resources:
Is Purdue's Online Masters program accredited?
- A leader in online graduate studies in engineering, Purdue has been offering distance degrees for engineers since the late 1960s. Purdue's engineering programs have been accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, which means its programs have been thoroughly vetted and documented by objective third parties. Additionally, our graduate programs have been accredited with the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) since 1913.