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A mechanical engineering professor teaches courses in mechanical engineering, such as Machine Design, Automatic Control, and CAD/CAM. They conduct research and data analysis in areas like wind energy application. They lead practical sessions, evaluate students' performance, and provide tutoring services in subjects like mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Mechanical engineering professors also develop curriculum, prepare lab manuals, and administer quizzes and exams. They may work with technologies like AutoCAD and CNC machining, and may teach in languages other than English. Some professors also contribute to engineering design projects.
It typically takes 10-12 years to become a mechanical engineering professor:
During the Bachelor's and Master's programs, students will learn foundational engineering principles, advanced mathematics, physics, materials science, and computer-aided design. In the Doctorate program, students will conduct original research, write a dissertation, and gain teaching experience. As a postdoctoral researcher or assistant professor, they will continue to conduct research, publish papers, and develop their teaching skills.
Avg. Salary $54,405
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 12%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.28%
Asian 17.61%
Black or African American 6.22%
Hispanic or Latino 8.94%
Unknown 4.78%
White 62.17%
Genderfemale 14.12%
male 85.88%
Age - 46American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 46Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is advanced
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
A mechanical engineering professor can take various career paths. Many choose to work as mechanical engineers themselves. Others move into management positions like project managers or directors. Some even become founders or directors of their own companies. A few transition into education administration, becoming principals or assistant principals.
The educational requirements for a mechanical engineering professor are a Doctorate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. According to Dr. Jane Smith, a professor at the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, "A PhD in Mechanical Engineering is typically required for a tenure-track position, as well as significant research experience." Additionally, certifications such as an Engineer In Training Certification can also be beneficial. Top schools for pursuing a career as a mechanical engineering professor include the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Georgia Institute of Technology, Northwestern University, Cornell University, and Pennsylvania State University.
A mechanical engineering professor should be able to effectively communicate complex concepts, lead classes, and develop curricula. They need to be adept at counseling students and evaluating their performance. They should also be skilled in tutoring, data analysis, and developing competency-based programs.
Skills![]() ![]() | Percentages![]() ![]() |
---|---|
Engineering Technology | 19.25% |
Aided Design | 12.35% |
Heat Transfer | 11.88% |
Fluid Mechanics | 11.07% |
Mechanical Design | 9.08% |
Mechanical engineering professors teach a range of courses, from engineering fundamentals to specialized topics like machine design and thermal dynamics. They also play a crucial role in guiding students through practical sessions, such as engineering drawing using AutoCAD. As Charles Jenckes, an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, points out, "For new graduates, the most important things are where the candidate went to school and what was studied, their GPA, any successful internships, and projects completed by the student."
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The average Mechanical Engineering Professor salary in the United States is $54,405 per year or $26 per hour. Mechanical engineering professor salaries range between $28,000 and $105,000 per year.
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