The small New England State of Rhode Island is home to three mechanical engineering schools. Associate’s degrees are available at two of these schools, and Bachelor’s degrees are also offered at two schools. One school offers a Master’s program and a Ph.D. program. The average cost of tuition in Rhode Island is about $16,100.
If you wanted to test out the field of mechanical engineering to see if it is right for you, you may want to earn an Associate’s degree. This degree usually takes two years. Many of the 60 required credits can often be transferred to a four-year institution.
A Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering is meant to give you a thorough, comprehensive education that prepares you for entry-level work in the field. This degree usually requires you to complete 120 to 140 credits. If you attend full-time, you may be able to graduate in four to five years.
Classes you may have to take include Mechanics of Materials, Engineering and Design, and Component Design. Your time should be split between the classroom and the lab.
Higher-level degrees in mechanical engineering include a Master’s degree and Ph.D. A Master’s degree encompasses 30 credits and usually takes two years. Classes required at this level include Heat and Mass Transfer, Nonlinear Engineering Systems, and Electromechanical Systems.
The average cost of tuition in Rhode Island is $16,100. However, the cost of tuition tends to be significantly lower at two-year institutions. You may be able to save money by completing general education courses at one of these schools and then transferring. You can also save money on your tuition by applying for grants and scholarships.
The Rhode Island Society of Professional Engineers awards scholarships of $1000 to local engineering students. Rhode Island Consulting Engineers awards scholarships of $2000 to Rhode Island engineering students.
Licensing of engineers in Rhode Island goes through the State of Rhode Island Division of Design Professionals. Prior to receiving your license, you must pass the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Exam. Once you have successfully passed your exam, you can fill out a license application. Once you have your license, remember to renew it every two years to keep it active.