Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer
Purdue University’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer (AHT) provides specialized knowledge and practical skills in thermal systems and heat transfer mechanisms, preparing individuals for elevated roles that require this expertise.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer
Purdue University’s online Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer (AHT) provides specialized knowledge and practical skills in thermal systems and heat transfer mechanisms, preparing individuals for elevated roles that require this expertise.
Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer Overview
The 100% online Graduate Certificate in Applied Heat Transfer is designed to meet the needs of engineering professionals and managers seeking to increase their knowledge of AHT and its implementation in emerging technologies in less time than a traditional master’s degree. This flexible program allows students to balance their education with professional and personal commitments while gaining industry-relevant expertise.
Students will learn from the world-renowned faculty of Purdue’s School of Mechanical Engineering which is the home of the #1 ranked online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (U.S. News & World Report, 2025). Build foundational skills by selecting from a variety of courses in gas dynamics, mechanical vibrations, computational fluid dynamics, and advanced mathematics.
With a focus on real-world applications, this certificate provides stackable skills that can be utilized immediately in the workplace or applied toward Purdue’s online Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, helping you to stay competitive in an evolving industry.
A graduate certificate is a specialized credential that provides advanced knowledge in a specific field. Available to those with a bachelor’s degree, Purdue’s 100% online graduate certificates take less time than a full master’s degree program. They are valuable for individuals looking to quickly advance their careers or pivot to a new industry. Graduate certificates also can serve as a stepping stone toward a master’s degree since they allow students to earn academic credits that may apply to a future graduate program. Ask your enrollment counselor for details or learn more about graduate certificates here.
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More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Curriculum Required Courses – 6 credits
- ME 50500: Intermediate Heat Transfer (3 credits)
Choose one of the following:
- ME 59700/51100: Heat Transfer in Electronic Systems (3 credits)
- ME 60800: Numerical Methods in Heat and Mass Transfer (3 credits)
Electives – 6 credits
- MA 52700: Advanced Mathematics for Engineers & Physicists I*
- MA 52800: Advanced Mathematics for Engineers & Physicists II*
- ME 51000: Gas Dynamics
- ME 56300: Mechanical Vibrations
- ME 58100: Numerical Methods in Mechanical Engineering
- ME 61400: Computational Fluid Dynamics**
*Only one Math (MA) course may be selected
**This course cannot be utilized if ME 60800 is taken More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Criteria for Admissions
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area (Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or Technology) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent (A=4.0).
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Applied heat transfer prepares professionals for specialized engineering roles focused on thermal systems, energy efficiency, and process optimization. These include Mechanical Engineer, Thermal Engineer, and Mechanical Design Engineer, each contributing to the analysis and design of systems that manage heat and energy flow. Additionally, Process Engineer and Thermal Mechanical Engineer play key roles in improving thermal performance, supporting manufacturing processes, and ensuring reliable operation across complex engineering applications.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer strong career opportunities for professionals specializing in applied heat transfer. These include Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing and Engineering Services, both of which rely on advanced thermal analysis to support high-performance systems. Additionally, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences, Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing, and Automobile and Light Duty Motor Vehicle Manufacturing depend on heat transfer expertise to drive innovation, ensure safety, and improve energy efficiency across complex technologies.
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