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UH-Extend Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programs

UH-Extend Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programs

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At a glance 

Format: 100% online; no in-person requirement
Available Programs:

Credit hours: 30 graduate credit hours
Cost: $745 per credit hour → Estimated total: $22,350 (30 × $745)
Start terms: Fall / Spring / Summer
Deadlines:

  • Fall semester: July 1

  • Spring semester: November 1

  • Summer semester: May 1

 

Why UH-Extend ME 

UH-Extend ME is designed for mechanical engineers who want an accredited University of Houston graduate degree while balancing work and life. You earn the same UH degree with the same academic standards as on-campus students - delivered in a format built for working professionals.

Good fit if you want:

  • Schedule-compatible graduate study while working full-time

  • Advanced preparation in mechanical engineering fundamentals and applications

  • A credential that supports career advancement in Houston’s major industries (energy, aerospace, manufacturing, advanced thermal systems, automation/controls)

 

Who Should Apply?

 Admission requirements vary by program. Most programs require: 

  1. Math background consisting of three semesters of Calculus, Differential Equations and Linear Algebra
  2. College-level Chemistry and Physics
  3. An undergraduate Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). 

While a background in a related engineering area is preferred, students in broader STEM fields are welcome to apply and may be offered a provisional admission consisting of a select group of leveling and introductory Master’s courses.

 

Choose your program (MME vs. MSME)

Master of Mechanical Engineering (MME)

Best for: working professionals who want a practice-oriented graduate degree with structured coursework.
Typical focus: advanced technical depth and breadth through coursework.

MME highlights:

  • Coursework pathway (30 credit hours)

  • Designed for professional growth and technical leadership

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)

Best for: students who want a more research-oriented MS pathway or a stronger foundation for research/PhD preparation (if applicable).
Typical focus: research methods and deeper specialization.

MSME highlights:

  • Coursework (30 credit hours) with [PLACEHOLDER: thesis/non-thesis options and requirements]

  • Stronger alignment with research or further graduate study

Quick decision rule:
If you want career upskilling with maximum schedule predictability, choose MME.
If you want research depth or potential thesis, choose MSME.

 

How the online format works

Delivery: Asynchronous / synchronous 

No on-campus requirement: you can complete the program online without in-person attendance.

Support: You will have access to advising and student services aligned with UH-Extend online learners.

 

Sample pacing plans (working-professional friendly)

Plan A: 1 course per term (steady pace)

  • Best if you work full-time with variable hours

  • Typical completion: ~2.5–3.5 years (depending on summer enrollment)

Plan B: 2 courses per term (typical accelerated pace)

  • Best if you can reserve consistent weekly time

  • Typical completion: ~1.5–2.5 years

Plan C: Customized (advising-guided)

  • Best if you have leveling courses, travel cycles, or shift work

  • Build a term-by-term plan with an advisor

Recommended next step: Request info and ask for a sample plan aligned to your background and schedule.

 

Application Requirements

  1. Online application
  2. Transcripts of all prior college education
  3. A summary of professional and relevant experience
  4. A supporting letter from your current employer is recommended
  5. GRE is optional for all UH-Extend Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programs
  6. International applicants: English Language Proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS or Duolingo).  See this page for more details.

 

Frequently asked questions 

Can I complete the program 100% online?

Yes. UH-Extend MAE programs are delivered online with no on-campus requirement.

Are courses live (synchronous) or on-demand (asynchronous)?

Most courses are asynchronous; some include optional live sessions.”

Is there a thesis option online?

Yes if the thesis topic fits the online format/requirements.

What if my bachelor’s degree isn’t in mechanical engineering?

Applicants with other STEM backgrounds may be considered via conditional admission with leveling coursework as needed.

Do I need the GRE?

The GRE is optional for UH-Extend graduate programs.

Can international students apply?

Yes, with English proficiency verification (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo as applicable). Online programs do not require an F-1 visa.

 

Next steps 

Step 1: Request information
Tell us your background and goals, and we’ll recommend a degree option (MME vs. MSME) and a pacing plan.

Step 2: Talk to an advisor (15 minutes)
Eugene Penzien
Academic Advisor
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Phone: 713-743-4505
Fax: 713-743-3722
Email: megrad [at] uh.edu (megrad[at]uh[dot]edu)

Step 3: Apply

 

Learn More

To view the full list of programs, frequently asked questions and more, please visit the Online Programs website.

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