If you’ve read our last engineering blog post, you already know that there are all kinds of engineering majors. But here’s the problem. We haven’t covered everything yet. that’s right. More engineering opportunities.
This post compares and contrasts some of the more mechanical engineering options. Specifically, dive into mechanical engineering, engineering mechanics, aerospace engineering, systems engineering and design. What do you study in these majors? What kind of careers do they lead to? Which one is right for you? Read on to find out.
mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering students study techniques such as the design and control of machines and systems, and the conversion or transmission of energy. As you can imagine, this broad field leaves a lot of room for flexibility and individual interest. You may have to deal with the engine. Improving health, manufacturing, or computers. Or something else entirely. Do you have a background or interest in physics? Want to learn more about how the world around you moves and uses energy? Are you ready to improve the world around you? Engineering may be the major you’ve been looking for.
What Career Options Are There for Mechanical Engineers?
Don’t feel limited by the options listed below. Mechanical engineers are in demand everywhere! Some of the most prominent are:
- car job
- Computer Software & Electronics
- defense and security
- environment
- health and biology work
- manufacturing, energy and transport
- Research and Development
Mechanical Engineering at UIUC
UIUC’s mechanical engineering major is ranked 4th in the United States (US News and World Report), which means joining the program is competitive! Stand out in your application by taking advanced math and science courses and looking for activities and STEM courses wherever possible. . To be admitted, mechanical engineering must be listed as a primary major, not a secondary major.
engineering mechanics
This major may sound like mechanical engineering with a few twists and turns, but engineering mechanics is a field of its own. Choosing this major will give you a comprehensive study of force and motion, giving you a deep understanding of statics, mechanics, materials, and more. Get the building blocks you need to solve problems in mechanics with the power of the principles of mathematics, science, and engineering. Special emphasis is placed on the physical principles of modern engineering design. If you’re interested in delving into the roots of engineering and problem solving, try Engineering Mechanics.
What Career Options Are There for Engineering Mechanics?
Engineering mechanics have their limits, but the following careers may fit your interests naturally.
- Aerospace
- car job
- Computer Software & Electronics
- defense and security
- environment
- health and biology work
- manufacturing, energy and transport
UIUC Engineering Mechanics
Studying Engineering Mechanics at UIUC gives you 7 different options to choose from secondary field:
- biomechanics
- computational mechanics
- engineering science
- applied mathematics
- experimental mechanics
- fluid mechanics
- material mechanics
- solid mechanics
aerospace engineering
Students in this field study the development, integration, and production of aerospace and flight systems (surprise?). You can study aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and more to make planes and spacecraft safer, more efficient, and better designed. Aerospace is a complex field, so these engineers must develop a professional background in mechanical, electrical, computer, and materials engineering over the course of their studies. Ever wanted to build a rocket? Check out Aerospace Engineering!
What Career Options Are There for Aerospace Engineers?
Aerospace engineering may sound like a very specific degree that leads to specific careers, but you might be surprised by the variety of positions available, such as:
- Aerospace
- car job
- defense
- engine
- government work
- manufacturing industry
- safety
Aerospace Engineering at UIUC
Like mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering is a UIUC major. Its undergraduate programs are ranked 7th in the United States (US News and World Report), which means it should be listed as your first choice major and prominent in your application. Don’t hesitate to take high school math and science courses. Stick to your elementary school vision of building model rockets and planes.
Systems engineering and design
Can’t you pick just one engineering focus? Systems engineering and design might be your major. A system in this context is any group of interacting components. As you can imagine, a system can be almost anything, so a diverse engineering and interdisciplinary background should cover your base. If you study systems engineering and design, you may be asked to develop and support software, create new scheduling algorithms for your business, or improve existing traffic management systems. Systems engineering and design lets you unleash your creativity.
What Career Options Are There for Systems Engineers?
Your job title may or may not include “Engineer”. The flexibility of this major extends to career options such as;
- automotive, control systems, manufacturing
- Business system integration and consulting
- Communication/computer system
- construction
- Operations and quality control
- robotics
Systems Engineering and Design at UIUC
When you study Systems Engineering and Design at UIUC, you are asked to make your choices. Secondary field optionIt is the focus of study that guides your major and gives you some specialization.
- automotive engineering
- Autonomous systems and robotics
- biotechnology
- computer science
- construction
- manufacturing engineering
Need a little help deciding?
Engineering is a field full of possibilities and possibilities.Which major best aligns with your future goals and what you want to contribute to the world? Quiz available on the Grainger College of Engineering homepageWhether you’re interested in designing spacecraft or want to leverage your expertise in fluid dynamics, engineering has a place for you!
