Ideal preparation for industry, a research career or doctoral study
The Duke Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science provides a unique combination of opportunities that only Duke can offer:
- World-class research integrated with project-based learning
- Flexible, individualized curriculum combined with a research project or thesis
- Three-semester study plans which allow you to focus on your defense
- Excellent career placement in PhD programs and industry
"Duke allowed me to choose from dozens of classes to create a curriculum specific to my thesis and interests."
Meghan Booze, MS '20
United States Air Force Pilot
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Mentorship From Top Researchers
Our Master of Science students are mentored by our world-class faculty researchers:
- Duke MEMS faculty are consistently ranked in the Top 15 in research productivity
- Their research is translated into our Master of Science courses and research projects
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Innovative Concentrations and Hands-On Learning
- Cutting-edge concentrations that access our faculty's current research—
- Autonomous, Intelligent Machines and Systems
- Energy, Propulsion, and Structures for Land and Space
- Multi-scale, Advanced, and Bio-Inspired Materials
- Optimal Design of Physical and Virtual Systems
- Master's Capstone Course which provides unparalleled—
- Experiential, project-based design work
- Training to develop a digital portfolio
- Development of oral and written technical communication skills
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3 Semesters + 1
Our flexible study plans cover two years of study and research, but:
- Take courses and pay tuition for just three semesters—about 1 1/2 years
- In your fourth semester focus on defending your research—without paying full tuition
See a typical Master of Science study plan »
Excellent Career Outcomes
- Nearly half of our master’s students go on to PhD programs, often at Duke
- Recent graduates who obtained industry jobs had an average starting salary over $78,000
More Details
- Typical Study Plan
- 10 Courses
- 5 Core courses (4 ME courses and 1 qualifying MATH/STAT course)—all 500-level or above
- 5 Elective courses—which may include up to 6 credits of independent study
- And, a research project or thesis
Research Work Concentration Courses Elective Courses Semester 1 Identify MS Project Math Course Elective Core Course Semester 2 Independent Study or Elective Core Course Elective Core Course Semester 3 Independent Study or Elective Core Course Elective Semester 4 Defend Research (Only 1 credit "continuation" tuition charged) - 10 Courses
- Admissions Profile
Averages of recently admitted applicants:
- GRE Quantitative: 167
- GRE Verbal: 154
- UGPA: 3.5
- Cost of Attendance
Master's students are required to enroll in and pay tuition for at least three semesters of full-time study. After that, students are charged per credit. Subject to change each year. Tuition typically increases by no more than 4 percent per academic year.