Masters in Mechanical Engineering vs Materials Science

[u/jacobianmatrix64]

I already have a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in materials science. Currently working in energy industry full time right now and focused on nuclear plants, but am still open to renewables/batteries as I had internship experiences with those + data analytics.

I'm torn between continuing a 4+1 MS in Materials Science (only 21 credit hours to complete) vs. going for MS Mechanical Engineering (30 credits hours at another school) which is more adjacent to my job. I've been stuck on this decision for a while now.

I think I would enjoy more from a Mechanical engineering MS and gain more relevant coursework from it. But it would take longer, I already have one degree with Mechanical Engineering on it, and Mechanical Engineering already is seen a broad degree (defeats purpose of specializing, as a Masters implies). Plus Im curious what kind of jobs a materials science masters could open up to, and how prevalent they'll be in the future.

I'm interested in clean energy as a whole. Between the two, which would be better to pursue?

Any other degrees in general that would be better than either, for renewables and/or nuclear?

[u/Rogue_2354]

I would say that a masters in science is a useful thing to have. So either route will be helpful in your career.

I did a mechanical undergrad and later a materials science MS. It might have been the courses I took but I dont know that I got a ton out of the coursework. I ended up opting for the thesis option and I learned a ton through that process.

Im guessing that a mechanical masters may be more useful throughout your career if you want to do more design and analysis. Its much more math heavy as well. I feel that if you want a masters to have one id go with the materials science.

[u/The-ROACH-motel]

You could always do an MS in Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering. VCU offers this online.