Purdue University, based in West Lafayette, Indiana offers a fully funded Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Thesis-based Master’s includes conducting independent research and a publishable report (or thesis). Outstanding performance in the thesis option Master’s provides students with a distinct advantage when applying for a Ph.D. program or employment. All thesis-based Master’s students are guaranteed funding, including a tuition waiver and a stipend for as long as they are making satisfactory progress to degree completion and meeting the requirements of the applicable assistantships. This can come in the form of a research assistantship, teaching assistantship, or fellowship.