Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of California offers a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education designed to prepare students for innovative careers in the engineering field. The program combines rigorous coursework, cutting-edge research, and hands-on practical experience to equip students with the skills necessary to develop advanced mechanical and aerospace systems. Students can explore a broad range of topics, including aerodynamics, propulsion, materials science, robotics, control systems, thermodynamics, and design principles. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and real-world applications, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical proficiency. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and industry experts dedicated to providing high-quality instruction and mentorship. The university provides state-of-the-art laboratories, wind tunnels, computational facilities, and collaborative research opportunities that enable students to engage in innovative projects. The program also promotes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from computer science, electronics, and materials engineering to address complex engineering challenges. Graduates of the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program are well-prepared for careers in aerospace companies, automotive industries, research institutions, and governmental agencies. Many alumni pursue advanced degrees or secure leadership roles in technology development, design, manufacturing, and systems analysis. The program additionally supports entrepreneurial initiatives and innovation, fostering an environment where students can translate ideas into practical solutions. With a vibrant academic community, extensive industry partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, the University of California's Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering program aims to cultivate the next generation of engineers who will drive technological progress and contribute to society.

Students may choose either Plan I or Plan II. We highly recommend that students not make this decision until the completion of at least one quarter of course work.

MS faculty advisors are assigned after one quarter of MS coursework in the department. The decision is a mutual agreement between the student, the faculty member, and the MAE Student Affairs Office. At the time that a faculty advisor is chosen, students should also decide between Plan I and Plan II. Students in Plan I must have the approval for a thesis from their faculty advisor. The MAE Student Affairs Office will assist students with the faculty advisor assignment process.

Master’s Plan I- Thesis Defense

MS Planner
MS Preparation for Thesis Defense

This plan of study involves both coursework and research, culminating in the preparation of a thesis. A total of 36 units of credit are required: 24 units (6 courses) must be in course work, and 12 units must be in research. The student's program is arranged, with approval of the faculty advisor, according to the following policies:

1. Course work must include 16 units (4 courses) of MAE 200-level courses.
2. Units obtained in MAE 205 or 299 may not be applied toward the course work requirement.
3. A maximum of 8 units of MAE 296 and 298 may be applied toward the course work requirement.
4. A maximum of 12 units of upper-division 100-level courses may be applied toward the course work requirement. However, if you choose 12 units of 100-level courses, you most likely will not have the required knowledge to complete a successful thesis.
5. Twelve units of MAE 299 must be taken to fulfill the research requirement.

Students must maintain at least a B average in the courses taken to fulfill the degree requirements.

These 36 units should be arranged into three areas of specializations, organized as follows:

   Specialization 1: 3 classes (4 units each course)
   Specialization 2: 3 classes (4 units each course)
   Specialization 3: 12 units of research

At least two of these three areas of specialization must be chosen from the list below of MAE research areas. The third specialization can be one of the listed MAE areas or a Math/Science area. The final two courses are free for the student to decide. Students must maintain at least a B average in the courses taken to fulfill the degree requirements.

Current MAE Research Areas:

   Applied and Solid Mechanics
   Material Sciences
   Fluid Mechanics
   Thermal Sciences
   Engineering Physics
   Dynamics Systems & Controls
   Environmental Engineering
   Biomechanics
   Design

Students should reference the MAE Graduate Course Structure for MS and PhD students to see which courses fall into which of the research areas.

There are no specific course requirements for the MAE Master’s program; however, it is important to follow the guidelines listed above, have your curriculum approved by your faculty advisor, and follow the polices below:

Following advancement to candidacy, the student electing Plan I must submit a thesis. The thesis committee, selected by the student and their faculty advisor, consists of at least three faculty members (including their advisor), of which two must be from MAE.

Information covering thesis preparation is contained in the publication: Preparation and Submission for Masters Thesis. The completed thesis is submitted to the thesis committee for review. The review typically includes an oral defense of the thesis. A student can take the oral defense twice. If the student does not pass the oral exam the second time, there will not be a third exam and the student will be asked to leave the program.

The student must make two separate appointments with the Office of Graduate Studies. The first appointment will be scheduled prior to defending and will cover, in person, formatting of the MS Thesis and forms required to graduate. The second appointment is when the candidate submits the thesis and all final paperwork to the Office of Graduate Studies and upon approval by the Dean of Graduate Studies, files the thesis with the university archivist, who accepts it on behalf of the Graduate Council. Acceptance of the thesis by the archivist with a subsequent second approval by the Dean of Graduate Studies represents the final step in the completion of all requirements by the candidate for a Master of Science degree on the UC San Diego campus.

Master’s Plan II- Comprehensive Exam

MS Planner
MS Preparation for Comprehensive Exam

This plan of study involves course work only and culminates in a comprehensive examination. A total of 36 units of credit (9 courses) are required. These 36 units should be arranged into three areas of specializations, organized as follows:

   Specialization 1: 3 classes (4 units each course)
   Specialization 2: 2 classes (4 units each course)
   Specialization 3: 2 classes (4 units each course)
   PLUS: Students Choice:  2 classes (4 units each course)

At least two of these three areas of specialization must be chosen from the list below of MAE research areas. The third specialization can be one of the listed MAE areas or a Math/Science area. The final two courses are free for the student to decide. Students must maintain at least a B average in the courses taken to fulfill the degree requirements.

Current MAE Research Areas:

   Applied and Solid Mechanics
   Material Sciences
   Fluid Mechanics
   Thermal Sciences
   Engineering Physics
   Dynamics Systems & Controls
   Environmental Engineering
   Biomechanics
   Design

Students should reference the MAE Graduate Course Structure for MS and PhD students to see which courses fall into which of the research areas.

There are no specific course requirements for the MAE Master’s program; however, it is important to follow the guidelines listed above, have your curriculum approved by your faculty advisor, and follow the polices below:

1. At least 16 units (4 courses) must be MAE 200-level courses
2. Units obtained in MAE 205 or 299 may not be applied toward the degree requirements.
3. A maximum of 8 units of MAE 296 and 298 may be applied toward the degree requirements.
4. A maximum of 12 units of upper-division 100-level courses may be applied toward the degree requirements. However, if you choose this option, you most likely will not have the required knowledge to complete a successful examination.
5. Only 4 units from the ENG series may be applied to the degree.

The Comprehensive Examination covers the 36 units of course material the student has taken. It typically takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours to complete. You will be asked questions based on your completed coursework (or thesis) listed in the Application for Candidacy. Faculty are looking for comprehension of concepts as opposed to simple memorization.

If an area of specialization is not completed with a passing grade, the student will be allowed to re-take that area ONE TIME within a 12-month period. If the student fails a second time, he/she will not be awarded the MS degree. Testing is on all three areas and students must pass all three.

Students must maintain at lease a B average (3.00 GPA) in the courses taken to fulfill the degree requirements.

Requirements

• Academic records from all post-secondary institutions attended since high school.
• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) test scores. The UCSD Institution Code is 4836.
• A minimum of three letters of recommendation. We accept online letters of recommendation only. For the online letter of recommendation process, you must provide the email address of each recommender.
• International applicants only: Scores for the TOEFL or IELTS Academic Training exam to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
• A curriculum vitae (resume).
• Transcripts: We will accept unofficial transcripts at the time that you apply. The transcript MUST have your name on it and the name of the institution--in English. If you are offered admission, you will be required to provide an official transcript at that time.
• All international applicants whose native language is not English and whose undergraduate education was conducted in a language other than English must take the TOEFL.  Those with the status "permanent resident" do not need to take the TOEFL. Test scores can be self-reported on the application website. If offered admission, then the official scores must be sent in to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Minimum TOEFL requirements for admission are: IBT 80, paper-based 550; IELTS 7.

Scholarships

• Global Education
• Different Fellowships and Traineeships

The University of California offers several degree programs related to Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, primarily through its esteemed campuses such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UC Davis. These programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in core engineering principles, advanced technological skills, and hands-on research opportunities. Students enrolled in these programs typically study core subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, mechanical design, control systems, and aerospace systems. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in industry, research, or further academic pursuits.

Undergraduate programs usually include a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering, which combine coursework with laboratory work, design projects, and internships. Graduate programs offer Master's and Ph.D. degrees, with research areas including aerodynamics, propulsion, robotics, materials, and systems engineering. The university fosters an innovative learning environment with state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and collaborations with leading aerospace and manufacturing companies. Students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge projects such as spacecraft design, renewable energy systems, and advanced manufacturing techniques.

The faculty comprises leading experts in engineering fields, committed to mentorship and advancing engineering knowledge. Internships and cooperative education programs are strongly encouraged, facilitating industry experience and professional development. Graduates of UC's Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering programs are highly regarded and often find employment in aerospace firms, automotive industries, energy companies, and research institutions worldwide. The programs also prepare students for graduate study and academic research, contributing to advancements in engineering sciences.

The university continually updates its curriculum to reflect the latest technological developments and industry needs, ensuring that students are well-equipped for future challenges. Students benefit from a collaborative environment that promotes innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship within engineering. Overall, UC's Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering programs offer a rigorous, comprehensive, and forward-looking education that equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in a dynamic and competitive global engineering landscape.