Breaking Down the Types of Engineering Degrees

Are you having trouble deciding which type of engineering degree to pursue? Don't worry; you're not alone! Choosing from the various types of engineering degrees can feel overwhelming, especially if you don't know the differences between them.

To put it in perspective, imagine walking into a candy store with no idea what type of sweets you want. Rows upon rows of colorful treats with unique flavors and textures greet you. Choosing just one seems impossible, and before you know it, you've spent an hour staring at the displays without making a decision.

Now, imagine that instead of candy, you're faced with different engineering degrees. It can feel just as daunting, but fear not!

In this blog, we'll break down the various types of engineering degrees and explore why pursuing a degree in engineering could be the perfect fit for you.

So, Let’s get started!

Electrical Engineering Degrees

Electrical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the study of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems, equipment, and devices. They work on various projects, from designing electronic circuits and devices to developing power systems and renewable energy sources.

Types of electrical engineering degrees

There are several types of electrical engineering degrees available, each with its unique coursework and requirements. Some of the most common types of electrical engineering degrees include:

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) - This degree program focuses on the fundamentals of electrical engineering, including circuit analysis, electromagnetics, electronics, and control systems.

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE) - This degree program provides students with advanced knowledge in electrical engineering, including specialized coursework in areas such as power systems, signal processing, and communications.

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering (Ph.D. in EE) - This degree program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in research or academia. It includes advanced coursework in electrical engineering, as well as independent research leading to a dissertation.

Career opportunities with an electrical engineering degree

Electrical engineering graduates can pursue various career opportunities, from designing and testing electronic circuits and devices to developing power systems and renewable energy sources.

Some of the most common career paths for electrical engineering graduates include:

Electrical Engineer - responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems and devices.

Electronics Engineer - designs and develops electronic circuits, devices, and systems.

Power Systems Engineer - responsible for designing and maintaining power systems, including power plants, electrical grids, and renewable energy sources.

Control Systems Engineer - designs and develops control systems for a wide range of applications, including manufacturing, aerospace, and robotics.

Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, development, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers work on a wide range of projects, from designing and testing machines and tools to developing engines and vehicles.

Types of mechanical engineering degrees

There are several types of mechanical engineering degrees available, each with its unique coursework and requirements. Some of the most common types of mechanical engineering degrees include:

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) - This degree program provides students with a solid foundation in mechanical engineering fundamentals, including mechanics, materials, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) - This degree program is designed for students who want to specialize in a particular area of mechanical engineerings, such as robotics, automotive engineering, or aerospace engineering.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering (Ph.D. in ME) - This degree program is designed for students who want to pursue a career in research or academia. It includes advanced coursework in mechanical engineering, as well as independent research leading to a dissertation.

Career opportunities with a mechanical engineering degree

Mechanical engineering graduates can pursue various career opportunities in various industries. Some of the most common career paths for mechanical engineering graduates include:

Mechanical Engineer - responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and devices.

Automotive Engineer - designs and develops vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

Aerospace Engineer - responsible for designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.

Robotics Engineer - designs and develops robots for a wide range of applications, including manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration.

Civil Engineering Degrees

Civil engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment. It involves the planning, designing, and building of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems.

Types of Civil Engineering Degrees

There are several types of civil engineering degrees, including:

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering: This is the most common type of civil engineering degree and typically takes four years to complete. It provides students with a solid foundation in civil engineering principles and prepares them for entry-level positions in the field.

Master's Degree in Civil Engineering: A master's degree in civil engineering is a graduate-level degree that typically takes two years to complete. It provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in specific areas of civil engineerings, such as structural engineering, environmental engineering, or transportation engineering.

Doctoral Degree in Civil Engineering: A doctoral degree in civil engineering is the highest level of education in this field. It typically takes four to six years to complete and prepares students for research and academic careers.

Career Opportunities with a Civil Engineering Degree

Graduates with a civil engineering degree can pursue a variety of careers in the public and private sectors. Some of the most common career opportunities include:

Civil Engineer: Civil engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems.

Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers work to protect the environment and public health by developing solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control and waste management.

Structural Engineer: Structural engineers design and analyze structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels to ensure they are safe and structurally sound.

Transportation Engineer: Transportation engineers design and maintain transportation systems, including roads, highways, and public transportation systems.

Geotechnical Engineer: Geotechnical engineers study the behavior of soil and rock and use that knowledge to design foundations, retaining walls, and other structures that are built on or in the ground.

Chemical Engineering Degrees

Chemical engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, development, and operation of chemical processes and products. Chemical engineers use their knowledge of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to develop processes and products that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Types of chemical engineering degrees

There are several types of chemical engineering degrees to choose from, including:

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering - This degree program provides students with a foundation in chemical engineering principles, such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena. Students also learn about chemical process design and optimization, as well as safety and environmental issues.

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering - This graduate-level degree program focuses on advanced topics in chemical engineering, such as process modeling and simulation, advanced thermodynamics, and reaction engineering. Students may also choose to specialize in areas such as biotechnology, materials science, or environmental engineering.

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering - This doctoral degree program prepares students for careers in academia or research and development. Students conduct original research in a specialized area of chemical engineering and produce a dissertation based on their findings.

Career opportunities with a chemical engineering degree

Chemical engineering is a diverse field with many career opportunities. Graduates with a chemical engineering degree can work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, materials, and consumer goods. Some common job titles include:

Process Engineer - Process engineers design, develop, and optimize chemical processes and products. They ensure that processes are safe, efficient, and meet quality standards.

Research and Development Engineer - Research and development engineers conduct research and develop new products or processes. They may work on improving existing products or developing new ones.

Production Engineer - Production engineers oversee the manufacturing process and ensure that products are produced efficiently and meet quality standards.

Environmental Engineer - Environmental engineers use their knowledge of chemical engineering to address environmental issues, such as air and water pollution. They design and implement systems to reduce pollution and protect the environment.

Energy Engineer - Energy engineers develop and implement systems to generate and conserve energy. They may work on renewable energy projects or develop more efficient energy systems.

How to Choose the Right Engineering Degree

Choosing the right engineering degree can be a daunting task. With so many different options and specializations available, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, by considering a few key factors, you can make an informed decision about which engineering degree is right for you.

A. Considerations for choosing an engineering degree

First and foremost, it's important to consider your interests and strengths. Do you have a passion for math and science? Are you interested in solving complex problems? These are all important factors to consider when choosing an engineering degree.

Another important consideration is the job market. Some engineering fields are more in demand than others, so it's worth researching which areas are expected to have job growth in the coming years.

B. Factors to keep in mind when deciding on a specialization

Once you've decided on an engineering degree, it's important to consider which specialization within that field is right for you. Factors to keep in mind include your strengths and interests, job opportunities, and the coursework required for each specialization.

It's also worth considering the long-term career prospects of each specialization. Some specializations may have more opportunities for advancement or higher salaries than others.

C. Resources for researching engineering degrees

There are several resources available to help you research engineering degrees and specializations. These include college websites, engineering organizations, and online forums.

Additionally, speaking with professionals in the field or attending career fairs can provide valuable insight into different engineering careers and specializations.

By taking these considerations and factors into account and utilizing available resources, you can choose the right engineering degree and specialization for your interests, strengths, and career goals.

It’s a Wrap

And there you have it - a breakdown of the different types of engineering degrees! From electrical to mechanical, civil to chemical, there are so many exciting options. But don't forget, if you're not quite ready to commit to a full four-year program, there's always the option of pursuing an associate's degree in engineering.

When choosing the right engineering degree for you, it's important to consider your interests, career goals, and educational background. Don't be afraid to reach out to resources like guidance counselors or career centers for help in making your decision.

And remember, no matter which engineering degree you choose, you'll be joining a field of problem solvers and innovators who are making a difference in the world. So go forth, explore, and let your inner engineer shine!