Graduate Programs
The Walker Department of Mechanical Engineers offers two graduate programs — in Mechanical Engineering and in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering — that provide fundamental depth with research-based education and training in a variety of fields. For questions regarding the graduate programs please contact, graduate-office@me.utexas.edu.
Mechanical Engineering
The mechanical engineering graduate program is designed to educate and advance the next generation of mechanical engineering leaders that will transform energy, robotics, healthcare, transportation, materials, and information to meet the needs of society.
Research is a critical component of graduate education. The Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering faculty are pursuing several interdisciplinary research topics and opportunities in which any student can participate.
In addition to selecting a research topic, a student’s progression through the graduate program requires aligning with an area of study offered by the department.
A student’s area of study determines what graduate coursework may be required and the format of any preliminary/qualifying exams.
Operations Research and Industrial Engineering
Operations research is a mathematical science concerned with optimal decision making and the modeling of deterministic and probabilistic systems. Its focus and field of application are interdisciplinary, embracing a broad range of quantitative techniques. Industrial engineering is concerned with the design, improvement, and installation of integrated systems of personnel, material and equipment.
Together, operations research and industrial engineering provide a rational approach to engineering and managerial problem solving through deliberate application of scientific methods.
Get To Know Us
Fall 2026 Information Session for Mechanical Engineering applicants
Planning for graduate school doesn’t have to be daunting! Attend an online information session to learn about ME program requirements, funding opportunities, and how to strengthen your application. Prospective PhD and MS applicants are encouraged to attend.
We will host information sessions about the Fall 2027 admission cycle in early October and will post dates by September 26.
Discover Mechanical Engineering (ME) at the University of Texas at Austin
October 29 – October 31, 2026 in Austin, Texas
Application Information for Discover ME for Prospective Graduate Students
Discover ME will provide a select group of prospective students with an opportunity to learn about the resources and opportunities available for ME graduate study at UT Austin. You will visit several research labs, interact with faculty members, and meet current ME graduate students. A schedule of last year’s event can be found here. A final schedule will be emailed to accepted applicants in September 2025. The event is free of charge for invited students.
REGISTER HERE between August 3, 2026 – September 4, 2026
Am I eligible to attend Discover ME?
Any prospective student interested in ME graduate study at UT Austin can apply to attend. Preference will be given to current undergraduate juniors and seniors from accredited universities and colleges in the U.S. who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Preference will also be given to those applicants interested in pursuing a Ph.D.
What is the cost to attend the event?
The event will be free of charge to all invited students. Airfare, accommodations, and meals will be provided.
How do I apply? When is the deadline to apply?
A survey must be completed to apply. The deadline to submit the survey is September 5, 2025. Be prepared to submit the following information:
- A resume or CV
- A short statement on your interest in ME at UT Austin
- Any test scores (i.e. GRE, TOEFL/IELTS) – optional
Is an application required?
An application is required as only a select number of students will be invited to attend. Please only submit one application. Multiple applications will not be considered.
How do I let you know if I have a dietary restriction or need accessibility accommodations?
Please include this information in your application.
Is there a dress code?
While there is no dress code for the event, Discover ME involves many opportunities to meet with faculty. You may consider packing casual items for Thursday and Saturday and dressy casual items for Friday. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as UT is a big campus and you will move between multiple buildings and locations on all three days.
Where should I stay? Are there other travel details I should know?
The department will work with invited students to book airfare and accommodations. Students will receive more specific details closer to the event.
Note: that students should expect to share a hotel room with a fellow prospective student. If you have any questions, please email graduate-office@me.utexas.edu.
I have questions about COVID-19 health and safety.
Your health and safety are our top concern. Please visit our Protect Texas Together website for more details.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact the ME Graduate office at graduate-office@me.utexas.edu.