Is a Mechanical Engineering Degree Right for Me?

What Does a Mechanical Engineering Major Study?

Mechanical engineering majors usually start by taking foundational courses in:

• calculus
• linear algebra
• chemistry
• physics

Once that coursework is complete, they move on to foundational mechanical engineering courses. Common topics in mechanical engineering coursework include:

• automation
• computer-aided design
• engineering design
• heat transfer
• manufacturing materials
• manufacturing processes
• materials science
• mechanical systems
• robotics and mechatronics
• structural mechanics
• thermodynamics

Mechanical engineers often work on teams with other types of professional engineers, and mechanical engineering programs may require courses in other engineering disciplines, such as:

• aerospace engineering
• biomedical engineering
• electrical engineering
• software engineering

Often, mechanical engineering degree programs will offer hands-on experiences including labs and internships to give students real-world experience in mechanical engineering. Some programs may offer specializations in mechanical engineering such as:

• automation and robotics
• manufacturing
• nuclear engineering

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Many mechanical engineers enter the field because they like to work with their hands and figure out how things work. Aside from an interest in the field, there are a few other reasons you should consider a degree in mechanical engineering, and we've broken them down below.

Mechanical Engineering Degrees Can Lead To a Variety of Careers

Mechanical engineering graduates have the opportunity to work as mechanical engineers, but also in various related fields or mechanical engineering specialties. This includes aerospace engineering, automotive engineering, and environmental engineering.

Additionally, those who go into mechanical engineering can work for many different industries, including:

• agriculture
• machinery manufacturing
• transportation equipment manufacturing
• scientific research
• computer manufacturing

This gives mechanical engineers a wide range of career options.

Mechanical Engineers Create Necessary Products

Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing, building, and testing products that people use every single day. These include things from cars to refrigerators to robots to healthcare and medical devices. As a mechanical engineer, you will:

• draw up product designs
• create prototypes
• run simulations of your product

Eventually, you may get to see your product in-store or even own one yourself!

There's Room for Career Growth in Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering graduates often start in entry-level mechanical engineering roles. With the right advanced education and certification, you may have the opportunity to move into leadership and management positions.

In many cases, to move into mechanical engineering management, you'll need a professional engineering (PE) license. This requires you to:

• hold an engineering degree from an ABET-accredited program
• a few years of work experience
• a passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
• a passing score on the PE exam

Mechanical Engineers Are in High Demand

While demand depends on where you live and your specialty, in general, mechanical engineers are in demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects jobs for mechanical engineers to grow by 10% by 2032. Additionally, mechanical engineers get paid a decent salary, with the BLS showing the average salary to be right around six figures. However, your compensation can vary based on your role, years of experience, and where you live.

You'll Develop Valuable Skills

While mechanical engineering students learn concepts that will help them on their mechanical engineering career path, they also learn skills that can help them in other engineering fields and beyond. Mechanical engineering programs teach valuable skills, such as:

• problem-solving skills
• project management skills
• basic computer science skills

These are skills you can use on the job and in your personal life.

Job Opportunities for Mechanical Engineering Degree Majors

Many mechanical engineering graduates obtain jobs as mechanical engineers. However, there are many related and specific job opportunities for mechanical engineering degree majors, including:

• aeronautical engineer
• automotive engineer
• biomedical engineer
• controls engineer
• combustion and fluid power engineer
• energy systems engineer
• environmental engineer
• HVAC engineer
• field industrial engineer
• manufacturing engineer
• packaging engineer
• process design engineer
• supply chain engineer
• thermal management systems engineer

Some mechanical engineering careers may require additional credentials or education.

Mechanical Engineering Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

If you're still on the fence about whether or not a mechanical engineering degree is right for you, there are a few questions you can ask yourself, such as:

• Will a mechanical engineering degree help me reach my career goals?
• Can I work in my field of choice with a mechanical engineering degree?
• Do I have the strong math and science skills required to be successful in a mechanical engineering degree program?
• Will a career in mechanical engineering allow me to live the lifestyle I want?
• Are mechanical engineers in demand in the area where I want to live?