Master in Mechanical Engineering

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena is internationally renowned for its focus on science and engineering and for a research environment that emphasizes discovery and innovation. Founded in 1891, Caltech combines small class sizes with world-class faculty and a culture that encourages independent inquiry. The institute’s achievements in fundamental research and technology transfer make it a top choice for students seeking an intensive STEM education and close mentorship from leading scholars.

Caltech offers a compact, high-impact academic setting where undergraduates and graduate students participate directly in cutting-edge projects across physics, biology, engineering and computation. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with students contributing to labs, observatories and centers that address global challenges. The collaborative, interdisciplinary approach cultivates both deep technical expertise and the ability to work across fields.

As a relatively small campus community, Caltech provides strong academic support, mentorship and networking in the greater Los Angeles research ecosystem. For international students drawn to rigorous STEM training, Caltech delivers concentrated resources, hands-on research experiences and pathways to meaningful scientific contribution in industry, academia and public service.

The Master in Mechanical Engineering at California Institute of Technology is a 2-year program for students who hold a Bachelor's degree. It helps students gain advanced knowledge in mechanical engineering and is typically completed within the first two years of residency at Caltech.

The curriculum includes a minimum of 138 units of courses, with a focus on grades and a grade of at least C for completion. Students take courses numbered 100 or above, which meet the required master's program, and all units must be taken for grades, except for courses offered only on a pass/fail basis.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Mechanical Engineers, Aerospace Engineers, Robotics Engineers, Automotive Engineers, and Mechatronics Engineers. They can work in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, and can be employed by companies such as NASA, Boeing, and General Motors.