Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Engineering Majors
As you’re choosing which college major to pursue, know that one field that has numerous possibilities is engineering! There are so many types of engineering majors out there!
Believe it or not, engineering is not just one field, but rather a diverse range of specializations. Each major offers its own set of unique opportunities and career paths.
Before majoring in any type of engineering, it’s important to know a few things.
First and foremost, engineering requires a strong foundation in mathematics and science. Be prepared for rigorous coursework in these subjects, as they form the basis of engineering principles.
Additionally, engineering relies on problem-solving skills, as engineers are tasked with finding innovative solutions to complex problems.
Technical aptitude is also crucial, as you’ll need to acquire knowledge and skills in various software, tools, and technologies.
Engineering is a rapidly evolving field, so there is emphasis on continuous learning as an essential.
Effective teamwork and communication skills are necessary for collaborating with professionals and stakeholders on engineering projects.
It’s also important to research the different career paths and job opportunities within the engineering field. This includes gaining practical experience through internships or co-op programs.
You definitely need to consider these factors to make an informed decision about pursuing an engineering major. Not only that, but especially the type that aligns with your skills, interests, and long-term career goals.
Specific coursework requirements may vary between different institutions for the different types of engineering majors.
Make sure to check specific requirements of the specific engineering program that they are interested.
Mechanical Engineering
One of the first types of engineering majors out there is Mechanical Engineering!
Mechanical engineering involves a combination of coursework and skills development to prepare students for a career in the field.
In terms of classwork, mechanical engineering majors study subjects such as math, physics, thermodynamics, mechanics, materials science, fluid mechanics, and control systems. These courses provide the foundational knowledge needed to understand and analyze mechanical systems.
Additionally, programs often include hands-on laboratory work and design projects to give students practical experience in applying engineering principles.
In terms of careers, mechanical engineers apply principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science to design, analyze, and develop mechanical systems and devices. They work on a wide range of projects, from small components to large industrial machinery.
Mechanical engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop detailed models and drawings.
They use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze the performance and behavior of mechanical systems. This includes evaluating factors like stress, strain, vibration, and heat transfer to ensure the systems meet specifications and can withstand operating conditions.
Mechanical engineers also build and test prototypes of mechanical systems to evaluate their functionality and performance.
Electrical Engineering
Within different types of engineering majors falls Electrical Engineering!
Students typically complete a combination of coursework and hands-on experience that prepares them for a career in the field.
In terms of coursework, a strong foundation in math and physics is essential for electrical engineering majors.
Core electrical engineering classes include courses in circuits, electronics, electromagnetics, digital signal processing, and systems and controls.
Students also have the opportunity to take elective classes in areas such as power systems, communications, or computer engineering. Electrical engineering majors need to have knowledge of industry-standard software tools and technologies, such as CAD and simulation software.
Electrical engineering typically requires the completion of a number of lab courses, as well as hands-on projects and design work. It is recommended that students pursue lab work or internships outside of their college classes.
In terms of career, electrical engineers work on a wide range of projects, spanning various industries like electronics, power generation, telecommunications, and more.
Main responsibilities include creating and developing electrical systems, components, and devices, ensuring they meet required specifications and performance standards.
Additionally, they design and test electronic circuits, ranging from microchips to power distribution systems, considering factors like safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Not to mention, electrical engineers work on the design and operation of power systems, including generators, transformers, transmission lines, and distribution networks.
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering is also within the types of engineering majors to look into.
If you want to major in civil engineering, classes include subjects such as structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, and hydraulic engineering.
Math courses like calculus, differential equations, and statistics, as well as science courses like physics and chemistry, are also essential.
Civil engineering programs may offer specialty electives in areas like architectural engineering, construction management, water resources engineering, or sustainable design.
Laboratory sessions and design projects provide hands-on experience, while cooperative education or internships offer a chance to gain professional experience.
Once graduated and as a fulltime career, civil engineers design, construct, supervise, operate, and maintain large-scale infrastructure.
Civil engineers work on various aspects of the built environment, such as buildings, bridges, roads, dams, airports, water supply, sewage systems, and more.
They collaborate with architects and other professionals during the planning and design stages of projects to ensure safety, functionality, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.
They analyze structural integrity, evaluate soil and rock properties for building foundations, oversee construction projects, manage transportation systems, and design water resources and environmental projects.
Chemical Engineering
There are a variety of types of engineering majors, and one of them is chemical engineering.
The major involves mastering a combination of chemistry, physics, and math concepts to design and create a variety of products.
Core coursework includes studying thermodynamics, kinetics, transport phenomena, materials science, and process design, while also gaining hands-on laboratory experience to develop skills in conducting experiments and analyzing chemical products.
Computer programming skills are also essential for tasks like modeling chemical systems and analyzing data.
A lot of chemical engineering majors look for internship opportunities to expand on their experience.
Students may have the option to specialize in areas such as nanotechnology, biochemical engineering, materials processing, and energy and environmental engineering.
Graduates can enter industries such as petrochemicals, food and beverage, water treatment, and polymers.
They are involved in process design, optimization, and research and development efforts, exploring new technologies, materials, and processes.
They also contribute to environmental engineering, designing systems for waste treatment and pollution control, as well as implementing sustainable practices.
Chemical engineers play a significant role in the energy and petrochemical industries. They can working on oil refining, natural gas processing, and the production of fuels and plastics.
They also contribute to the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields, working on drug formulation, drug delivery systems, and medical device development. Chemical engineers often take on consulting and management roles, providing expertise or overseeing projects and teams.
Chemical engineering can also take the route of entrepreneurship and innovation. You can start your own companies and commercialize new products or technologies.
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace Engineering, as a major, focuses on the design, development, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment.
Students typically study a range of subjects including aerodynamics, flight dynamics and controls, propulsion, and aerospace structures.
Some of the courses include fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, structural analysis, orbital mechanics, and aircraft design. The principles and theories taught in classes are crucial for understanding various aspects of aerospace vehicles and systems.
A lot of students within the major seek out hands-on experience in either a lab setting and/or internships.
Aerospace engineers can find employment in a variety of industries, including aerospace manufacturing companies, government agencies, defense contractors, and research institutions.
Aerospace engineers are involved in designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on aerospace systems, including aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, and controls.
Professionally, aerospace engineers can find employment in a range of industries, such as aerospace manufacturing companies, government agencies, research institutions, and defense contractors.
Environmental Engineering
Students pursuing a major in Environmental Engineering study a range of subjects, including ecology, microbiology, chemistry, and physics, as well as engineering principles such as fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena.
The coursework for students usually entails addressing environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change.
Typical courses include environmental chemistry, water and wastewater treatment, air pollution control, hazardous waste management, and sustainable design.
Like all the other engineering majors, having experience in labwork and internships helps with gaining more overall experience professionally.
Post-graduation, engineers can find employment in a variety of fields. This ranges from environmental consulting firms, government agencies, utilities, to manufacturing companies.
They work on a range of projects, such as designing and implementing pollution control systems, conducting environmental assessments and evaluations, or developing sustainable water treatment technologies.
Biomedical Engineering
If you’re interested in the major of biomedical engineering, know that it applies engineering principles to biomedical and healthcare challenges.
Students in this major study biology, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and materials science to develop innovative solutions in medicine and biology.
Biomedical engineering programs inckude courses such as anatomy, physiology, biomaterials, biomedical imaging, biomechanics, medical instrumentation, and signal processing.
It is an interdisciplinary field that combines engineering principles with biological and medical sciences. So students gain a solid foundation in both engineering and life sciences to understand the complexities of the human body and develop technologies and devices to improve healthcare.
Hands-on laboratory experiences and design projects are emphasized in many biomedical engineering programs. This gives students the opportunity to work with medical equipment, conduct experiments, and develop prototypes of medical devices.
Biomedical engineers often work on projects that directly impact human health and well-being. Therefore, ethical considerations such as privacy, patient safety, and the responsible use of technology in healthcare are also covered in the major.
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths. Possibilities include working in research laboratories, hospitals, medical device manufacturing companies, and regulatory agencies.
Some common roles include designing and developing medical devices, conducting medical research, or working in clinical engineering to maintain and repair medical equipment.
Industrial Engineering
Adding to the different types of engineering majors out there is industrial engineering.
Required classes typically cover a variety of topics, including probability and statistics, operations research, manufacturing systems, quality control, and human factors engineering.
Most programs require students to complete core courses in mathematics and science before taking upper-level courses in industrial engineering.
Upper-level courses vary by program but typically cover topics such as production system design, computer-aided manufacturing, supply chain management, and optimization.
Students also have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of industrial engineering. This includes operations research, quality engineering, supply chain logistics, or health systems engineering.
The curriculum for an industrial engineering major can vary by institution.
For example, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers specialized coursework in engineering analytics, healthcare systems engineering, human factors and ergonomics, and manufacturing and supply chain management.
Northwestern University requires students to complete 6 core courses in industrial engineering methods, which include probability, statistics, foundations of optimization, and others.
Career-wise, industrial engineering can involve a variety of roles. Ranges , including designing and improving production processes, managing production schedules, ensuring product quality, and optimizing supply chain logistics.
Industrial engineers may also work on projects related to workplace safety, equipment design, or environmental sustainability.
Some common positions for industrial engineering graduates include industrial engineer, manufacturing engineer, systems analyst, quality engineer, production manager, and supply chain manager.
Industrial engineering professionals often work in fast-paced environments such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, and distribution centers.
Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, can lead to higher positions like research and development director or executive management roles.
Computer Engineering
One of the more common types of engineering majors is Computer Engineering.
Majoring in computer engineering requires an understanding of both hardware and software concepts. The principles of computing and electrical engineering are also covered.
Students in this field study subjects such as mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering. A strong foundation in mathematics and physics is crucial for success in computer engineering, as they provide the theoretical framework.
Computer engineering involves a combination of hardware and software knowledge, and students learn to analyze, design, and develop computer systems, including both the physical components and the software that runs on them.
Graduates have a wide range of career options, including computer hardware design, software development, telecommunications, robotics, cybersecurity, and more. Computer engineers design, build, and maintain hardware components in modern computers.
They specialize in integrating hardware and software to create efficient and unified computer systems.
Computer engineering graduates can pursue various career paths. Some common roles include computer hardware engineer, systems engineer, software engineer, robotics engineer, and back-end developer.
These professionals may work on projects involving computer hardware design, software development, cybersecurity, systems analysis, and more.
Additionally, computer engineering offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, embedded systems, and network engineering.
Materials Engineering
For those wanting to major in materials engineering, it’s an interdisciplinary field that involves the design, development, and processing of various materials used in manufacturing.
It draws upon principles from physics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering.
Students in materials engineering programs study courses in materials processing, thermodynamics, mechanical behavior of materials, and electronic materials, and gain hands-on experience through laboratories, research projects, and internships.
Graduates of materials engineering programs can find career opportunities in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and medical devices industries, with job titles such as materials engineer, process engineer, quality engineer, and product development engineer.
Materials engineers develop, test, and improve materials used to create a wide range of products across many industries.
They work in various settings, including offices, factories, and research and development laboratories.
As a materials engineer, you may be responsible for designing materials to meet specific requirements, such as strength, durability, or conductivity.
Furthermore, you may conduct testing and analysis to ensure the quality and performance of materials in different applications.
The demand for materials engineers is driven by the need to develop advanced materials for various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biomedical devices.
Engineering is a field where innovation and creativity thrive, and with hard work and dedication, you can play a part that you’re passionate about!
The different types of engineering majors allow for so many different possibilities and careers for you to pursue.