What Will I Learn in a Mechanical Engineering Degree Program?

If you love working with machinery and want to someday take an active role in designing such items as cars or the robots that build them, a degree in mechanical engineering can be the first step. Students will learn how to think creatively, solve problems and apply their knowledge to real world situations. Courses will cover such topics as energy conversion, mechatronics, automotive engineering, kinematics, control theory, physics, drafting, chemistry and mathematics. Additionally, students will need to complete projects, lab work and internships to help them get hands-on experience that will be essential to future success in the working world.

What Can I Do With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Every mechanical device you use on a daily basis had a mechanical engineer involved in its design and creation at some point, and grads will soon find out that their degree can lead to a diverse assortment of careers. One common career path for mechanical engineers involves designing engineering systems, such as those involved with heating and cooling, industrial operations and manufacturing. Others will prefer to work in more specific engineering projects, perhaps in automotive or instrument design. There are also positions available for those who prefer to work on the small scale, designing and refining hand held machinery and electronics. Higher level degrees can lead to management positions or allow grads to educate the next generation of engineers as a college professor.

What Is the Career Outlook for Mechanical Engineering Degree Students?

Employment opportunities for mechanical engineers are expected to rise on par with most other careers. Positions should be available in a wide range of specializations, but especially in emerging areas such as nanotechnology and biotechnology. As technology is implemented in ever more ways in society, qualified engineers could see a number of new jobs appearing. Salaries for mechanical engineers vary depending on education and experience, but on average those with an undergraduate degree can expect to make $50,000 a year and with a master's, $60,000.