Posted by The top Mechanical engineering schools in Texas listed in this article, have been able to create a niche for themselves as a place that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of Mechanical engineering.
In this article, we will explore 20 of the top mechanical engineering schools in Texas, delving into what makes each of them unique. Also, in the following chapter, we will discuss why studying Mechanical engineering in Texas is a good idea. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Study Mechanical Engineering in Texas?
Studying Mechanical Engineering in Texas can be a great choice for several reasons:
- Diverse Opportunities: Graduates are equipped to go into various fields, including technology, engineering, business, government, and more.
- Industry 4.0 Ready: The primary objective of some programs is to prepare students to enter the Mechanical Engineering workforce with the ability to understand and implement Industry 4.0 concepts.
- Top Ranked Programs: The University of Texas at Austin, for example, has a top-10-ranked engineering school and the No. 1 program in Texas.
- Experienced Faculty: Many of the faculty members have industry experience and innovative research programs.
List of the Top Mechanical Engineering Schools in Texas
Below is a list of the top Mechanical Engineering schools in Texas:
- University of Houston
- Rice University
- The University of Texas at Arlington
- Texas Tech University
- Baylor University
- Southern Methodist University
- The University of Texas at Austin
- The University of Texas at Dallas
- University of North Texas
- LeTourneau University
- University of Texas at El Paso
- Lamar University
- University Of Texas at San Antonio
- Angelo State University
- Texas State University
- Lee College
- Tarleton State University.
20 Top Mechanical Engineering Schools in Texas
1. University of Houston
- Founded: March 7, 1927
- Location: Houston, Texas, United States
The University of Houston (UH) is a renowned institution that offers a comprehensive range of academic programs. One of its prominent departments is the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The Mechanical Engineering department at UH is part of the Cullen College of Engineering. The department is dedicated to engineering all that makes our society go, from mechanical and electromechanical machinery to new materials and technologies to engineering sensors and medical devices. Their academic programs offer in-depth knowledge in fluid mechanics, dynamics, materials, and thermal and mechanical system design.
2. Rice University
- Founded: September 23, 1912
- Location: Houston, Texas, United States
Rice University, formally known as William Marsh Rice University, is a top-ranked private research university located in Houston, Texas, United States
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Rice University seeks to combine high educational standards with research distinction and service to the community. The department offers two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree with a Major in Mechanical Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) Degree.
The BA program is flexible for students looking to pursue areas of interest outside of engineering, while the BSME program prepares students for the professional practice of engineering or a career in academia.
3. The University of Texas at Arlington
- Founded: 1895
- Location: Arlington, Texas
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is a public research university located in Arlington, Texas. UTA offers over 180 baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. It is classified among “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” and is the third-largest producer of college graduates in Texas.
The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) at UTA offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees and minors in both mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering. The department is home to a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of mechanical and aerospace engineering.
The department also offers Certificate Programs in Automotive Engineering, Electronic Packaging, and Unmanned Vehicle Systems. This wide range of programs and specializations allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals, preparing them for success in the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering.
4. Texas Tech University
- Founded: February 10, 1923
- Location: Lubbock, Texas, United States
Texas Tech University (TTU) is a public research university located in Lubbock, Texas. It is the flagship institution of the five-institution Texas Tech University System. The university offers degrees in more than 150 courses of study through 13 colleges and hosts 60 research centres and institutes.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering is part of the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering. It is the largest major in the engineering college at Texas Tech University.
The Department offers state-of-the-art instructional labs, including a Materials Testing Lab, Controls Lab, Thermo-Fluid Lab, and Manufacturing Lab. It also offers an Aerospace Engineering Minor. The Department’s research areas include advanced energy systems, healthcare engineering, computational sciences, and complex fluids and soft materials.
5. Baylor University
- Founded: February 1, 1845
- Location: Waco, Texas, United States
Baylor University is a renowned institution known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life. One of the prominent departments at Baylor University is the Mechanical Engineering Department.
The Mechanical Engineering Department at Baylor University offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to enter a variety of industries, graduate schools, and nonprofit organizations.
The department aims to equip its graduates with fundamental technical, communication, and teamwork skills. They strive to empower their students with innovative problem-solving creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset.
6. Southern Methodist University
- Founded: April 17, 1911.
- Location: Dallas, Texas
Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private research university located in University Park, Texas, with a satellite campus in Taos County, New Mexico.
The Mechanical Engineering Department at SMU is part of the Lyle School of Engineering.
It has a long tradition of offering a superb engineering education within an environment that fosters creativity and innovation. Small classes, a trademark of the program, allow for strong mentoring and promote academic excellence through cooperation and teamwork.
The department offers several degree programs:
- Bachelor’s Programs: B.S. Mechanical Engineering, B.S. Mechanical Engineering (pre-medical/biomedical track)
- Master’s Programs: M.S. Manufacturing Management, M.S. Mechanical Engineering
- Doctoral Programs: Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, D.E. Mechanical Engineering
7. The University of Texas at Austin
- Founded: September 15, 1883
- Location: Austin, Texas
The University of Texas at Austin is a renowned institution with a strong focus on research and innovation. One of its prominent departments is the Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering.
The department is known for its comprehensive and rigorous programs, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is ranked as the #12 Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Program and the #11 Graduate Mechanical Engineering Program.
The department’s curriculum covers a broad range of areas, including thermal/fluid systems, mechanical systems and design, materials, manufacturing, and other emerging areas.
This breadth is reflected in the department’s research areas, which include but are not limited to:
- Acoustics
- Advanced Manufacturing and Design
- Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
- Analytics and Probabilistic Modeling
- Biomechanical and Biomedicine
- Clean Energy Technology
- Complex Systems
- Computational Engineering
- Engineering Education
- Nano and Micro-scale Engineering
- Nuclear and Radiation Engineering
- Robotics and Intelligent Mechanical Systems
8. The University of Texas at Dallas
- Founded: February 14, 1961
- Location: Richardson, Texas
The University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) is a public research university located in Richardson, Texas. UTD offers more than 140 academic programs across its seven schools and hosts more than 50 research centres and institutes.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UTD focuses on problems of global significance and is consistently one of the top choices for UT Dallas students. Its degree programs are expressly tailored to meet the most current needs of the 21st-century mechanical engineer, providing instruction in micro-thermodynamics, microfluidics, and other key areas.
The faculty members, who have industry experience and innovative research programs, prepare graduates for careers in various fields, including energy, medicine, defence, aerospace, automotive, electronics, food processing, and nano-/micro manufacturing.
9. University of North Texas
- Founded: September 16, 1890
- Location: Denton, Texas
The University of North Texas (UNT) is a public research university located in Denton, Texas. It is one of the nation’s largest universities, offering 114 bachelor’s, 97 master’s, and 39 doctoral degree programs.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UNT provides a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Energy Engineering, which prepares students for careers in the ever-growing fields of energy and sustainability.
The department also offers graduate programs that provide opportunities to learn fundamental and applied knowledge compatible with mechanical engineering, renewable energy, energy modelling, manufacturing, and fossil fuels.
The B.S. in Mechanical & Energy Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
10. LeTourneau University
- Founded: 1946
- Location: Longview, Texas
LeTourneau University is an interdenominational, evangelical Christian university located in Longview, Texas.
The Mechanical Engineering Department at LeTourneau University is one of the most diverse engineering disciplines dealing with the design, development, and manufacturing of every kind of vehicle, power system, and machine.
The Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) degree prepares students for registration as a Professional Engineer and provides the educational background for professional employment or graduate study.
The curriculum includes a unique blend of mathematics, sciences, and engineering topics, together with communications, humanities, social sciences, and Biblical studies.
Graduates from this program hold professional positions in research, development, design, production, applications engineering, and management in many industries including aerospace, automotive, aviation, robotics and manufacturing, electronics, microelectronics and computers, telecommunications, and information systems.
11. University of Texas at El Paso
- Founded: April 16, 1913
- Location: El Paso, Texas, United States
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is a public research university located in El Paso, Texas. It is a member of the University of Texas System and is the second-largest university in the United States to have a majority Mexican American student population.
The Mechanical Engineering Program at UTEP is dedicated to providing students with a set of skills, knowledge, and attitudes that will permit its graduates to succeed and thrive as engineers and leaders.
The Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering prepares students to meet the increasing demand for more robust, efficient, and economical engineering designs for the workforce.
12. Lamar University
- Founded: 1923
- Location: Beaumont, Texas, United States
Lamar University is a nationally ranked public university located in Beaumont, Texas. The university offers more than 100 programs, from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees.
The Mechanical Engineering Department at Lamar University is part of the College of Engineering. The department offers a curriculum that combines mechanical engineering fundamentals with applied research projects and experiential learning.
The bachelor’s program in Mechanical Engineering at Lamar University is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
The department offers the following degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Engineering (non-thesis)
- Master of Engineering Science (thesis)
- Doctor of Engineering
The Mechanical Engineering curriculum offers many practical, hands-on experiences and state-of-the-art education.
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers, including machine design, systems design, energy resources, aerospace, oil/gas, manufacturing and production, transportation and environmental impact, materials and structures, energy conversion, and robotics and autonomous systems.
13. University of Texas at San Antonio
- Founded: June 5, 1969
- Location: San Antonio, Texas, United States
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is a public research university located in San Antonio, Texas. It is the largest university in San Antonio and the eighth largest by enrollment in the state of Texas.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UTSA is part of Klesse College. The department offers programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels that prepare students for future challenges and opportunities.
The programs include:
- B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (an ABET-accredited undergraduate program)
- M.S. in Mechanical Engineering
- M.S. in Advanced Manufacturing and Enterprise Engineering
- Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, which is a joint program with Southwest Research Institute.
The mission of the Mechanical Engineering Department is “to provide excellent educational and research opportunities to our undergraduate and graduate students who will contribute to the technological and economic development of the community, the region and the nation”.
14. Angelo State University
- Founded: 1928
- Location: San Angelo, Texas, United States
Angelo State University (ASU) is a public university located in San Angelo, Texas. The university offers 50 undergraduate programs and 31 graduate programs. It is the second-largest campus in the Texas Tech University System.
The Mechanical Engineering department at ASU offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.). The program is designed to prepare students to be practice-ready mechanical engineers upon graduation.
The curriculum includes practical experience in high-tech labs, field classes, and internships with local engineering firms. The B.S.M.E program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering program can expect to find career opportunities in mechanical design, the energy industry, computer-aided engineering, the automotive and aeronautical industries, manufacturing, and other similar fields.
15. Texas State University
- Founded: 1899
- Location: San Marcos, Texas, United States
Texas State University (TXST) is a public research university with its main campus located in San Marcos, Texas. The university offers over 200 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across its ten colleges.
The Mechanical Engineering (ME) department at Texas State University is part of the Ingram School of Engineering. The department offers one of the first B.S. Mechanical Engineering programs in the nation to be designed ‘from the ground up’ to include Industry 4.0 concepts.
Graduates of this program will have a strong foundation in traditional ME principles combined with a unique education in designing and developing mechanical systems that are intelligent, interconnected, and integrated with the virtual world and emerging digital infrastructure.
16. Lee College
- Founded: 1934
- Location: Baytown, Texas
Lee College offers a program in Manufacturing Engineering Technology (MET), which is a broad-based general science degree designed to prepare students for careers in the chemical processing industry, manufacturing, and advanced technology.
The MET program provides students with a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, combined with a good understanding of the equipment and technology associated with the operation of the manufacturing industry.
Graduates from the MET program have five options:
- Transfer to a four-year engineering program.
- Transfer to a 4-year engineering technology program.
- Seek employment as an engineering technician.
- Seek employment as a process technician, research technician, or laboratory technician.
- Transfer to a four-year school offering a BS in technology.
The program complies with the American Chemical Society’s voluntary standards and with the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology in Engineering Technology.
17. Tarleton State University
- Founded: 1899
- Location: Stephenville, Texas
Tarleton State University is a public research university located in Stephenville, Texas. It is a founding member of the Texas A&M University System and enrolled over 15,000 students in the fall of 2022. The university is classified among “R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity”.
The Mechanical Engineering department offers rigorous, hands-on programs that engage students in applying engineering principles and problem-solving to create innovative, real-world solutions.
Students have access to state-of-the-art instructional and research equipment, including industry-standard software, 3D printing, automation and robotics, a hydraulic flume, a 145-mph wind tunnel, and a 100 kN universal testing machine.
FAQs on the Top Mechanical Engineering Schools in Texas
Do these schools offer undergraduate or graduate programs in mechanical engineering?
Most of the schools included in the list offer both undergraduate and graduate programs in mechanical engineering.
Are there any specific scholarships or financial aid opportunities available for mechanical engineering students at these schools?
Each school may offer a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options specifically tailored for mechanical engineering students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the financial assistance opportunities available at each institution.
What are the admission requirements for these mechanical engineering programs?
Admission requirements vary by school but typically include a strong academic background in mathematics and science, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, essays, and possibly an interview.
Do these schools offer opportunities for research and collaboration with faculty?
Yes, research opportunities are a significant aspect of many mechanical engineering programs in Texas. Students often have the chance to work closely with faculty members on research projects spanning various areas of mechanical engineering.
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Conclusion
These institutions not only provide great academic training but also foster innovation, encourage practical experience, and facilitate research opportunities, thereby equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their future careers.
Thus, students who choose to embark on their mechanical engineering journey in Texas are not just earning a degree; they are stepping into a future of endless possibilities.
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