Types of Engineering and the Different Types of Engineers

In this article, we will be discussing all Types of Engineering degrees and the Different Types of Engineers, types of civil engineering degree, types of petroleum engineering, types of seals engineering, mechanical engineering degree. Over 30+ different types of engineering degrees and careers are reviewed, so you can find the best engineering programs online.

Engineering is expected to be a growing sector in the coming decade, and it is regarded as a high-paying profession. You can see a list of some of the highest-paying engineering jobs, which is updated frequently and based on salary data from the US Department of Labor and other credible sources. Continue reading to learn more about the best engineering degrees, or use the school search to find online schools that are currently accepting applications. 

What is Engineering?

Engineering is a broad term that refers to a variety of activities and industries. Engineers create innovative solutions to real-world problems by combining mathematics, science, and technology. As a result, there are numerous engineering degrees to choose from. Engineering used to be divided into four major branches: mechanical, chemical, civil, and electrical, each with sub-disciplines. 

However, the number of engineering degrees available today has skyrocketed. Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Management, and Geotechnical engineering are now the six major branches of engineering, with hundreds of subcategories within each branch. Take a look at the list below for a summary of all types of engineering degrees, along with a link to a full article with more information where available. 

You can also find links to universities that offer that specific degree or search for engineering degrees using the search box below. You can use the main navigation to learn more about the various types of engineering degrees available, including the newly available online engineering degree. 

What Is The Best Engineering Field?

With so many different fields of engineering, it’s only natural to wonder which one is the best. While most differences exist in terms of work environment, salary, education, and career advancement, the answer to this question are entirely dependent on the individual. For example, someone who wants to work in a medical facility will have a different ideal engineering field than someone who wants to work with geology outdoors.

Understanding your own background and career goals can go a long way toward determining which engineering field you are most interested in. Prior to pursuing the necessary education, you may want to start by successfully matching your goals with the appropriate field. 

Should You Pursue a Degree in Engineering?

Ask yourself the following questions about your interests, skills, and goals when deciding whether or not to major in engineering.

Are you a math and science whiz?

Engineering degrees require a strong foundation in math and science. Calculus, algebra, statistics, physics, chemistry, and biology are all required courses in most undergraduate engineering programs. You’ll almost certainly have to take several labs as well.

Do you take pleasure in resolving issues?

Problem-solving is a feature of all engineering types. Your primary goal is to find practical solutions that will help to make the world a better, safer, and more efficient place. An engineering major may be a good fit for you if you consider yourself a strong critical thinker.

Are you ready to put in a lot of effort in school?

Many people consider engineering to be one of the most difficult majors. Be aware of these high expectations if you’re considering pursuing an engineering degree. Engineering programs may require you to maintain a minimum GPA in addition to several hours of homework each week.

30+Types of Engineering Degrees 

The most common types of engineering degrees are listed below, sorted by engineering branch. To quickly jump to your engineering category of interest, use the following links:

1. Mechanical Engineering 

This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the mechanical engineering degree. Mechanical engineering is concerned with the creation of mechanical systems. Manufacturing, aeronautics, nanotechnology, nuclear power production, heating and cooling are all industries that benefit from these systems. Thermodynamics, structural analysis, materials science, and kinematics are all major areas of study. 

This is, without a doubt, the most comprehensive of all engineering degrees available today, covering a wide range of engineering disciplines. Mechatronics, for example, is a subset of mechanical engineering that combines electronics and electrical engineering. 

2. Aerospace Engineering 

The study of air and space travel is part of an Aerospace Engineering degree. Military aircraft design and development, as well as commercial airline design and satellite technology, are all possibilities. Although the terms “aerospace” and “aeronautical” are frequently used interchangeably, there are important distinctions between the two. 

Aeronautical Engineering is concerned with aircraft that stay within our atmosphere, whereas Aerospace Engineering is concerned with aircraft that travel beyond our atmosphere. In the United States, most programs have changed their names from Aeronautical to Aerospace over the last few decades, but some programs still use the old name. 

3. Biomedical Engineering

The study of medicine and biology are combined in biomedical engineering. Biomedical engineers use their design skills to help with biological and medical research. They do so in order to help advance healthcare treatment technology. They are in charge of developing and maintaining diagnostic devices. EEGs, MRIs, and other imaging machines are examples of devices. These machines are used by doctors to diagnose their patients’ medical problems. This is a fast-paced industry that, while difficult, can be a rewarding career path.

4. Biomechanical Engineering Degree

The study of organisms and mechanics, as well as how the two work together to solve problems, is known as biomechanical engineering. This is one of the Types of Engineering degrees and among the mechanical engineering degree. Environmental challenges such as waste control and pollution-free waterways are among the practical applications of this growing industry.

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As you might expect, it has strong ties to Biomedical Engineering and Agricultural Engineering. The majority of people who work in biomechanics have a Master’s degree or higher in biomechanical engineering.

5. Automotive engineering

Automotive engineering, as the name implies, is concerned with the design and manufacture of automobiles. Engineers are needed in areas such as mechanical design, performance, manufacturing, electrical engineering, and systems management in the automotive industry.

6. Civil Engineering

This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the types of civil engineering degree. Buildings, railways, road construction, bridge construction, and general construction project management are all examples of civil engineering. Civil engineers are also crucial in rebuilding projects, such as those following natural disasters. Civil engineers can work at any level in the private or public sector.

This is a degree in engineering that covers a wide range of topics. Civil engineering encompasses a variety of disciplines such as environmental engineering, structural engineering, and marine engineering.

7. Structural Engineering

Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the design of various structures, such as houses, commercial buildings, art museums, and retail establishments. This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the types of civil engineering degree. To ensure that buildings and structures are safe for a long time, structural engineers must understand building construction and the effects of natural factors such as erosion, corrosion, wind, and water. Structural engineering is a concentration offered by some universities as part of a civil engineering degree.

8. Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineers work on projects during the construction, planning, and design stages. This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the types of civil engineering degree. The focus, in collaboration with other team members, is on the structure and interior design of the building. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, fire protection, lighting, plumbing, and other project-specific systems are all included. Natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes are given special attention in some areas.

9. Electrical Engineering

The study of energy is a part of an Electrical Engineering degree. Energy comes in a variety of forms, including electrical, hydro, and natural sources like wind and solar energy. An electrical engineer creates technologies to aid in the practical application of renewable energy sources. Electrical engineers create components for electronic devices, communications systems, power grids, automobiles, and other applications. 

To work as an Electrical Engineer, most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, and other licensing or certification requirements may be required depending on where you live.

10. Computer Engineering

Of course, the Information Technology (IT) industry is another one that is still growing. Both computer science and electrical engineering are involved in this. Telecommunications, networking, software application development, and manufacturing are among the industries where graduates may find work, and new ones are emerging, such as application development, web development, network security/cybersecurity, and cloud computing, to name a few. 

Because most industries rely on information technology, this degree has a bright future. 

11. Electronics Engineering

Technology, particularly electronics, has altered the way the majority of the world lives on a daily basis. We all use electronics on a daily basis, from the revolutionary computer to the latest pocket-sized mobile phone technology. To design and build electronic equipment, electronics engineers are required. To design and build these devices, most electronics engineers use circuits, switchboards, and other electronic configurations.

12. Mechatronics Engineering

Mechatronics, or Mechatronics Engineering, is a new field for hybrid engineers that combines mechanical and electronic engineering. In today’s world, nearly all mechanical equipment is controlled by a combination of electronics and software, all of which is based on computers and technology. Mechatronics engineers are electrical, electronics, and mechanical engineers who specialize in bridging that gap. 

This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the mechanical engineering degree. Some of the more experienced Mechatronics Engineers have also worked in computer, hardware, and software engineering.

13. Robotics Engineering 

A robotics engineering degree focuses on automation and the use of machines to assist with repetitive tasks, such as those found in the manufacturing industry. To achieve maximum efficiency, robotics engineers will typically design robotic technology and develop maintenance systems. In the next five years, this sector is expected to grow by up to 15%.

14. Microelectronic Engineering

A Microelectronic Engineering degree may be of interest to you if you have an interest in electronics. Microelectronics is a branch of electrical engineering that emphasizes the word “micro.” Microelectronic engineers are experts in the design and development of small electrical devices. It’s used in a variety of industrial settings. We’re moving away from bulky electronic devices like the first cell phones and desktop computers. 

We create electronic devices that are smaller and more convenient. As a result, there is a high demand for microelectronic engineers. Microelectronic engineers can also help with project technical writing. As well as conducting tests to ensure that the product is in compliance.

15. Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering is the practical application of chemistry, as the name suggests. This type of engineering degree entails problem-solving technology based on chemical reactions. A chemical engineer uses raw chemicals to create new products such as cosmetics, foods, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and cleaners. This is a very broad engineering degree that can lead to a variety of job opportunities. It’s also one of the most difficult degrees out there.

16. Environmental Engineering

One of the most common types of engineering degrees is a bachelor’s degree in engineering. The study of science and engineering to improve our environment is known as environmental engineering. This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the types of civil engineering degree. This includes the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. Environmental engineers also research the effects of humans on the environment, such as pollution caused by development and manufacturing processes. Civil engineering includes environmental engineering as a subset.

17. Materials Science Engineering 

Materials Science engineering is the study of materials and why they behave or react the way they do. Plastics, ceramics, and polymers are examples of this. Everything around us is made of materials, and as we progress, there is a growing demand for stronger, more environmentally friendly, and lighter materials. Research positions as well as internships in the industry are available. Materials Science Engineering is a hands-on, practical degree with a high demand for graduates.

18. Agricultural Engineering

An agricultural engineering degree teaches students how to apply engineering principles to the agricultural industry, such as soil conservation and salinity, ground preparation, irrigation, farm machinery design and production, and assisting in the development of more efficient harvesting techniques. Working in a consulting capacity or in a related industry, such as machinery design and production, is the most common occupation.

19. Paper Engineering

Paper Engineering is a branch of chemical engineering that focuses on the chemical and mechanical processes involved in paper production. This type of degree entails both research and practical assessments, which are usually lab work. Students learn about molecular science, wood pulping, and fluid mechanics, to name a few topics.

20. Sustainability Design

Sustainable engineering considers three major aspects of sustainability: environmental impact, social considerations, and economic considerations. This encompasses not only the initial construction phase, but also the entire life cycle of the product in development. Graduates can continue their education or work in industries like industrial waste water management, emission control, and hazardous waste management.

21. Engineering Management

An Engineering Management Degree combines engineering and business management education to prepare graduates to manage engineering projects or lead a team of engineers. Engineers with limited business and management skills, as well as managers with limited engineering knowledge, can benefit from a degree in engineering management. This degree is expected to become more popular over time.

22. Industrial Engineering

Industrial engineers work for manufacturing companies or as manufacturing industry consultants. An industrial engineer’s job is to boost productivity while lowering waste and spending. Many new businesses will hire an industrial engineer to aid in the efficiency of their operations. Employee productivity and internal processes are also tested by industrial engineers. This will increase the company’s efficiency.

23. Systems Engineering

A multidisciplinary engineering degree, systems engineering is a multidisciplinary engineering degree. While it has evolved over time as technology and efficiency have improved, its primary focus is on developing and improving existing systems. Systems engineers create tools for improving workplace efficiency, risk management, and measurement and refinement.

24. Manufacturing Engineering 

Manufacturing Engineering is concerned with manufacturing processes and machinery, as well as quality control systems. Manufacturing accounts for more than 20% of America’s GDP and 15% of its workforce. As a result, it’s critical that we improve the efficiency of our manufacturing processes. This is a broad field that can overlap with other engineering disciplines such as robotics and systems engineering. Material science, manufacturing technology, and automation (robotics), as well as fluid mechanics and hydraulics, will all be studied by students.

25. Petroleum Engineering

A petroleum engineer is in charge of extracting oil and gas from the ground. They’re also working on developing new extraction methods and technologies, including more efficient and environmentally friendly methods. Petroleum engineering is one of the most well-paid engineering fields. For gas and oil companies, petroleum engineers are crucial in locating reservoirs beneath the earth’s surface. This is one of the Types of Engineering degrees and among the types of petroleum engineering degree. 

26. Geological Engineering

For mining and construction projects, geological engineers combine engineering and research skills. Geological engineers are employed by construction companies. Before beginning construction, they assess the ground conditions as well as other natural hazards (earthquakes, for example). Geological engineers are in high demand as natural resources become scarce. Geological engineers work in both the private and public sectors.

27. Nuclear Engineering 

Nuclear engineers are at the forefront of research and development for nuclear power’s ever-increasing use. Many recent advancements have benefited the medical field the most. Nuclear engineers work for a variety of companies, including consulting firms, power plants, and government organizations. Nuclear engineers are in high demand in nuclear power plants, as expected. 

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One of their responsibilities is to design, implement, and maintain the plant. Many nuclear engineers advance to supervisory and management positions.

28. Marine engineering

A marine engineer contributes to the advancement of ocean technologies by applying his or her knowledge. Fixed and floating structures, such as pontoons and jetties, propulsion and power generation for boats, ships, and other marine transportation, as well as developing new forms of energy reliant on our oceans, such as wind farms, are all examples of technologies.

28. Engineering Physics

This is one of Types of Engineering degrees, and among the mechanical engineering degree. An engineering physics degree combines engineering and physics, allowing students to research the areas where the two disciplines collide. It also serves as a springboard for graduate studies in physics or engineering. The majority of graduates will work in research or another engineering field such as mechanical or nuclear engineering. This type of graduate is in particularly high demand.

29. Photonics Engineering

Photons are a type of light that has a specific wavelength. The field of photonics engineering is concerned with the study of light. This includes light generation, light signal processing, light amplification, and light modulation. Telecommunications (optical signal processing and communication), medical, manufacturing, aviation, and computing are just a few of the industries that use this technology. Opportunities for qualified Photonics Engineers are expected to grow significantly over the next decade.

30. Nanotechnology Engineering  

Nano refers to a billionth of a meter, or between 2 and 20 atoms in length; for example, one nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter or between 2 and 20 atoms in length. Nanotechnology is the study and production of extremely small devices using extremely small elements such as molecules and single atoms. 

Nanotechnology, which has the potential to help solve some of the world’s major problems, such as health and environmental concerns, is expected to become as important to us as the industrial revolution over time. Nanotechnology is a highly specialized field with applications in a wide range of industries and fields.

31. Mining Engineering

A mining engineering degree focuses on the safe, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible extraction of mined resources from the earth. Engineers work in the mining industry in areas like machinery design and manufacturing, mine design, and mine construction. Mining engineers can work on-site or remotely, collaborating closely with geologists to discover the most effective extraction techniques.

32. Ceramics Engineering

As the name suggests. Engineers who work with ceramics create products (ceramics being non metal, non organic materials that are generally produced by heating and cooling). Due to their heat and cool resistance, ceramics are frequently used in industries such as medical, mining, and electronics.

33. Metallurgical Engineering

A metallurgical engineering degree entails learning how to extract and purify metals and other minerals from ore using engineering principles. Metallurgical engineers create and design processing techniques and machinery while also considering the impact of mineral processing on the environment.

34. Geomatics Engineering

Geomatics Engineering is the study of precise measurement in order to map the earth’s environment using advanced equipment and techniques. Geomatics engineers are crucial in the planning of future infrastructure, and they frequently work with large amounts of data to create digital replicas of terrain and 3D maps. This includes research into GPS technology. Because there is a scarcity of qualified geomatics professionals, they are in high demand.

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Conclusion

The term “engineer” refers to the process of creating, building, or designing something. As a result, engineering encompasses any branch of science or technology concerned with the design and development of machines, engines, and other products or structures. The above list depicts the various types of engineering degrees available. Some degrees will overlap to some extent, while others will be highly specialized, and as a result, the education will be as well. The Modennews team is open to seeing your opinion.

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