Is an Engineering Degree Right for Me?

Engineering is a viable career choice, but it isn't right for everyone. Ask yourself key questions to help determine if this program is right for you.

An engineering career is a viable choice for high school students who want to use math and science in their daily lives.

If you have a strong passion for STEM coursework, the field of engineering might be for you. Learning more about branches of engineering could help you determine if this should be your career path.

What Is an Engineering Degree?

An engineering degree focuses on the practical application of math and science through physical results. There are many different types of engineering and career options that range from work with robotics as a computer engineer to environmental manipulation as a civil engineer.

An engineering degree program covers the math and physics fundamentals required for different problem-solving types in your chosen discipline. Because you can pick from many types of engineering jobs, there will also be highly specialized courses as your degree develops.

What Does An Engineering Major Study?

Engineering students cover various topics, both in general math and science, as well as more specialized courses as they get further into their engineering education.

Regardless of engineering discipline, students take core classes, like calculus, in the first years of their program to prepare them for the advanced calculations they will need to do their jobs.

In the later years of engineering school, students will begin to focus on their chosen concentration. Different engineer professions will require different coursework. For example, a civil engineer will take courses in geology and physics, while a computer engineer will take classes more related to programming.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Engineering

Beyond the ability to use your math and science skills daily, there are several other reasons to consider a degree in engineering.

Many Specializations

One of the biggest advantages of engineering as a career is the number of specialties available. Whether you want to work with computers and robots or want to help design bridges and work in structural engineering, there are degree programs and career paths for you.

Engineering is a broad term that encompasses a variety of disciplines. If you have a specific inclination toward technology or physical applications, there's probably a kind of engineering work that will help you chase your career goals.

Opportunities For Travel

Engineering can be done just about anywhere, which is helpful since the demand for engineering skills is universal. Certain kinds of engineering, such as civil and structural engineering, often require travel, where engineers can employ their skills around the country and the world.

An advantage to a career in engineering is that you can travel without forced relocation. Many engineering firms do work outside of their direct community but remain based in a single area. This helps engineers support their work-life balance more than some other careers.

Future-Proof Careers

Engineering work is in high demand, and there isn't any expectation of this slowing down. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering as an industry will grow at much higher rates than other occupations, with some engineering disciplines projected to grow at over three times the national average.

As society becomes more reliant on technology, having engineers who can make this technology possible will continue to be critical.

Creative Work

Despite being a highly scientific and hands-on field, engineering work often veers into more creative outputs. The world of civil and structural engineering often includes design and aesthetic elements, but that's not where creative engineering ends. In the world of computer and mechanical engineering, finding ways to achieve goals for users often involves an innovative approach.

Engineers design new hardware and software for many industries, including medical devices and computers. Beyond the practical application, engineers need to consider factors like ergonomics and visual appeal in their final products.

Convenient Scheduling

Most engineers work traditional hours, meaning they can achieve a better work-life balance than some other careers. Consistent hours and a regular schedule often appeal to students looking to work without sacrificing their lives outside of work.

Traveling engineers will often be subjected to different hours than those working in a single location.

Work That Matters

Engineers do work that matters. With the growing demand for environmentally conscious practices, engineers are redesigning old processes and creating new technologies that preserve the planet while still serving current user needs.

Engineers are also responsible for efforts to rebuild after natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, which can help save lives and make it easier for people to live their lives again.

Higher Salaries

Salary ranges vary among the different engineering disciplines, but all engineering branches have generally high median salaries, especially those who continue into graduate school. Although money isn't everything, having a reliable salary in a career can be a big draw to many students looking to enter an engineering program.

Opportunities To Work Alone and On Teams

Engineering projects come in multiple forms, allowing engineers to work independently and in large teams. Whether you like working in collaboration or alone, you will be able to find roles that fulfill your goals.

Job Opportunities for Engineering Degree Majors

If you are considering a degree in engineering, you'll probably look ahead to what careers will be available to you. Becoming an engineer can open many doors based on your specialization.

Some of the common career opportunities for engineering majors include:

Engineers can also work in research and development outside of these designated engineering fields. Different engineering degrees open up different options. For example, a software engineering degree provides the skills necessary to create apps or other computer programs for a business startup.

Engineering Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Before enrolling in an engineering program, you must fully determine that it is the right degree and career program for you.

To make this decision easier, start asking yourself some questions like:

Do I want to use math and science daily?
Do I like using my skills alone and as a member of larger teams?
Do I want to have opportunities to travel for work?