Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and most established branches of engineering, and it continues to be a popular choice for students seeking a career in engineering. In this blog post, we will explore the many reasons why you should study mechanical engineering at university and why it can be a great choice for students looking to build a rewarding and fulfilling career.

What is Mechanical Engineering?

Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, development, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers work on everything from tiny micro-machines to large-scale industrial equipment, and they play a critical role in the design and development of products and systems that are essential to modern life.

Why Study Mechanical Engineering?

There are many reasons why studying mechanical engineering can be a great choice for students. Here are just a few of the most compelling reasons to consider studying mechanical engineering at university:

1. Job prospects

One of the biggest advantages of studying mechanical engineering is the excellent job prospects that are available to graduates. Mechanical engineers are in high demand in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy, and many more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

2. Diverse career opportunities

Another advantage of studying mechanical engineering is the diverse range of career opportunities that are available to graduates. Mechanical engineers can work in a wide range of industries and job roles, including design and development, manufacturing, research and development, quality control, and more. This means that mechanical engineering graduates can find work in a wide range of settings, from large corporations to small startups.

3. Variety of work

Mechanical engineering is a diverse field, and this means that mechanical engineers can expect to work on a wide range of different projects and products over the course of their careers. This variety of work can be challenging and stimulating, and can provide mechanical engineers with opportunities to develop new skills and expertise.

4. High earning potential

Mechanical engineering is a well-paid profession, with graduates typically earning salaries that are significantly above the average for other professions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $88,430 in May 2020.

5. Intellectual challenge

Mechanical engineering is a challenging and intellectually stimulating field, and it requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving ability. Studying mechanical engineering at university can be a great way to develop these skills and to challenge yourself intellectually

6. Contribution to society

Mechanical engineers play a critical role in developing and improving the products and systems that are essential to modern life. This means that studying mechanical engineering can be a great way to make a meaningful contribution to society and to work on projects that have real-world impact.

What To Expect From a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Studying mechanical engineering at university typically involves a combination of classroom-based learning and practical experience. Students will learn about the principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science, and will also develop skills in computer-aided design (CAD) and other software tools.

Over the course of their degree, students will typically have the opportunity to work on a range of different projects, both individually and as part of a team. These projects may involve designing and building mechanical systems, carrying out research into new materials or processes, or developing computer models to simulate mechanical systems.

In addition to the technical skills and knowledge that they will acquire, mechanical engineering students will also develop a range of transferable skills that are valued by employers. This is furthered by studying a masters. These may include teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.

What Careers Can You Pursue With a Mechanical Engineering Degree?

Mechanical engineering is a vast field that encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from robotics and automation to aerospace and energy systems. As a result, mechanical engineering graduates have a broad range of career paths available to them, both within traditional engineering industries and beyond. Here are some of the most common careers that mechanical engineering graduates can pursue:

1. Design Engineer: Design engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans for mechanical systems, products, and machines. They work on everything from small components to large-scale industrial systems, and may specialize in a particular industry or field.
2. Manufacturing Engineer: Manufacturing engineers are responsible for designing and improving manufacturing processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs. They work on everything from production lines to individual machines, and may specialize in a particular type of manufacturing, such as electronics or aerospace.
3. Aerospace Engineer: Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They work on everything from propulsion systems to avionics, and may specialize in a particular type of vehicle, such as commercial airliners or military drones.
4. Automotive Engineer: Automotive engineers design and develop cars, trucks, and other vehicles, as well as the systems that make them run. They work on everything from engines and transmissions to suspension systems and aerodynamics, and may specialize in a particular type of vehicle or component.
5. Energy Engineer: Energy engineers design and develop energy systems, such as wind turbines, solar panels, and hydroelectric plants. They work on everything from designing new renewable energy technologies to optimizing existing power systems, and may specialize in a particular type of energy technology or application.
6. Research and Development Engineer: Research and development engineers work on developing new products and technologies, often in collaboration with scientists and other engineers. They may work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, and consumer electronics.
7. Project Engineer: Project engineers oversee the design, development, and implementation of complex engineering projects, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget. They may work in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and energy.
8. Quality Control Engineer: Quality control engineers ensure that products and systems meet the required quality standards, using a variety of testing and inspection techniques. They work in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics.

These are just a few examples of the many career paths that are available to mechanical engineering graduates. With their broad range of skills and knowledge, mechanical engineers are well-equipped to pursue a wide variety of different roles and industries.