Engineering Degrees: Education and Career Paths

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What Is Engineering?

Engineering is the application of scientific principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, systems, and processes that solve real-world problems. It is a broad and dynamic field that spans multiple disciplines, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.

Engineers use their expertise to innovate and create solutions that improve our daily lives, from constructing bridges and buildings to developing cutting-edge technology and sustainable energy systems.

At its core, engineering is about problem-solving and innovation. Engineers are trained to think critically, analyze complex systems, and develop practical solutions that meet societal needs. Whether designing safer transportation networks, advancing medical technologies, or improving environmental sustainability, engineers play a crucial role in shaping the future.

If you have a passion for science and technology and wish to make a tangible impact on the world, a career in engineering could be the perfect path for you.

Browse by Engineering Subject Area

Explore the various engineering degrees below to discover each field’s unique opportunities and career paths.

Mechanical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Computer Engineering

Whether you’re interested in designing cutting-edge technology or solving critical environmental challenges, there’s an engineering degree that can help you achieve your career goals.

Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Mechanical Engineering is one of the oldest and broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, from small components to large machinery.

They work on anything that moves, including engines, tools, and machines used in everyday life.

Key topics: Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and mechanical design
Applications: Automotives, aerospace, manufacturing, and robotics
Skills: Problem-solving, analytical thinking, CAD (Computer-Aided Design), and project management

This discipline also intersects with robotics, automotive engineering, and aerospace technology.

Biomedical Engineering Degrees

Biomedical Engineering combines engineering principles with medical and biological sciences to create technology and devices that improve healthcare. This field focuses on the development of medical equipment, artificial organs, prostheses, and healthcare technologies.

Key topics: Bioinstrumentation, biomaterials, medical imaging, and tissue engineering
Applications: Hospitals, medical device companies, research institutions, and pharmaceuticals
Skills: Creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, understanding of human physiology, and design skills

Biomedical engineers work closely with doctors and medical researchers to innovate in diagnostics, treatment, and patient care.

Civil Engineering Degrees

Civil Engineering is concerned with designing, constructing, and maintaining roads, bridges, buildings, water systems, and other infrastructure. Civil engineers ensure that structures are safe, sustainable, and built to last.

Key topics: Structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering
Applications: Public infrastructure projects, construction companies, and environmental agencies
Skills: Project management, structural analysis, sustainability practices, and technical drawing

This field is critical for urban development and environmental protection, making it a key area for public safety and societal growth.

Chemical Engineering Degrees

Chemical Engineering involves the application of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to convert raw materials into valuable products. Chemical engineers design and operate processes for large-scale manufacturing, including pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and food processing.

Key topics: Process engineering, thermodynamics, chemical reaction engineering, and material science
Applications: Chemical manufacturing, energy production, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management
Skills: Analytical thinking, process optimization, safety management, and technical expertise in chemistry

Chemical engineers play a crucial role in the safe and efficient production of chemicals, materials, and energy.

Electrical Engineering Degrees

Electrical Engineering focuses on the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems, including power generation equipment, electric motors, and communication systems.

Key topics: Circuit analysis, electromagnetics, control systems, and power systems
Applications: Power generation, telecommunications, electronics manufacturing, and automation
Skills: Circuit design, problem-solving, innovation, and understanding of electrical safety standards

This field is fundamental to modern technology, powering everything from household appliances to large industrial machines.

Environmental Engineering Degrees

Environmental Engineering focuses on solving environmental challenges like pollution, waste management, and sustainable development. Environmental engineers work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control.

Key topics: Water resources management, air pollution control, waste management, and environmental impact assessment
Applications: Government agencies, environmental consulting firms, and non-profit organizations
Skills: Environmental modeling, regulatory knowledge, sustainability practices, and project management

This field is critical in addressing climate change and protecting natural resources.

Aerospace Engineering Degrees

Aerospace Engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. This field combines elements of mechanical and electrical engineering with specialized knowledge in aerodynamics and propulsion.

Key topics: Aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and materials science
Applications: Aviation industry, space agencies like NASA, defense contractors, and aerospace manufacturers
Skills: Precision, attention to detail, problem-solving, and knowledge of aerospace materials

Aerospace engineers work in many fields, from commercial planes to satellites to space exploration missions.

Industrial Engineering Degrees

Industrial Engineers optimize complex processes and systems to improve efficiency and productivity. They work in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and supply chain management.

Key topics: Operations research, supply chain management, quality control, and systems engineering
Applications: Manufacturing, logistics companies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms
Skills: Process improvement, data analysis, project management, and systems thinking

Industrial engineers are valuable members of many industries because of their abilities to analyze and design workflows, facilities, and production processes to maximize efficiency and reduce costs.

Computer Engineering Degrees

Computer Engineering combines elements of electrical engineering and computer science to develop computer hardware and software. Computer engineers design and test computer systems, including processors, circuit boards, and networks.

Key topics: Computer architecture, embedded systems, software engineering, and digital systems design
Applications: Technology companies, electronics manufacturers, and research and development labs
Skills: Programming, circuit design, problem-solving, and understanding of software-hardware integration

This field is at the heart of the digital age, driving computing, robotics, and artificial intelligence innovation.

Careers in Engineering

An engineering degree can open the door to many rewarding and lucrative careers. Here’s an overview of some of the most popular career opportunities.

Mechanical Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in mechanical engineering
Roles: Mechanical engineer, automotive engineer, robotics engineer, or HVAC engineer
Advancement: Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g. PE license) for leadership roles

Biomedical Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in biomedical engineering
Roles: Biomedical engineer, clinical engineer, medical device designer, or research scientist
Advancement: Master’s degree or Ph.D. for specialized research and development roles

Civil Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in civil engineering
Roles: Civil engineer, structural engineer, transportation engineer, or environmental engineer
Advancement: Professional Engineer (PE) license for higher responsibility roles or master’s degree for specialization

Chemical Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in chemical engineering
Roles: Chemical engineer, process engineer, product development engineer, or environmental engineer
Advancement: Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g. PE license) for leadership roles

Electrical Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in electrical engineering
Roles: Electrical engineer, electronics engineer, power systems engineer, or control systems engineer
Advancement: Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g. PE license) for specialized or leadership roles

Environmental Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in environmental engineering
Roles: Environmental engineer, water resources engineer, air quality engineer, or waste management engineer
Advancement: Master’s degree or certifications (e.g. LEED) for advanced sustainability and environmental protection roles

Aerospace Engineering Careers

Minimum education required: Bachelor’s in aerospace engineering
Roles: Aerospace engineer, aeronautical engineer, or avionics engineer
Advancement: Master’s degree or certifications for advanced roles or Professional Engineering (PE) license for leadership positions

Since engineers revolutionize many industries, earning a degree in engineering can open up many rewarding career opportunities.

How Much Do Engineers Make?

Your salary as an engineer will vary depending on your field, location, and experience. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), engineers have median annual salaries of $60,000 to over $100,000, depending on specialization. Some of the highest-paid engineers make over $180,000 annually.

Petroleum engineers, computer engineers, and aerospace engineers typically earn higher salaries. Entry-level engineers’ salaries start on the lower end of the scale, but with experience and advanced degrees, you can increase your earning potential.

What Are the Highest-Paying Engineering Careers?

Some of the highest-paying engineers are petroleum, computer hardware, aerospace, and chemical engineers. These fields often require specialized knowledge and skills, leading to higher salaries.

Petroleum engineers, for example, can earn well over $130,000 per year, reflecting the job’s high demand and technical complexity. Because they oversee engineering projects and teams, engineering managers often have some of the highest salaries, earning well over $160,000 on average (BLS).

How Do I Become an Engineer?

To become an engineer, you typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited institution. After completing your degree, gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions is crucial.

Many engineering roles, especially higher-level positions, require passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Continuing education and specialization through certifications or advanced degrees can further enhance your career prospects.

What Are the Best Engineering Jobs?

The best engineering jobs often depend on the industry and your specialization. Some of the most popular engineering jobs are in software, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Careers in these fields are known for their job stability, growth potential, and impact.

Jobs in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, robotics, and renewable energy are also highly regarded due to their future-focused nature.