Schooling for Engineers
Engineers are the professionals who apply their knowledge of science, mathematics and problem-solving skills to develop solutions to technical problems. They are often required to develop solutions in a cost-effective and practical manner. There are many disciplines within engineering, such as civil engineering, traffic engineering and petroleum engineering.
Most engineering positions require a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. All engineers are required to take certain core courses regardless of the discipline or subdiscipline that they plan to study. Nearly every engineer is required to take several courses in calculus, statistics, chemistry and physics. The student will begin to take courses based on a chosen discipline following completion of the core classes. Some of the common disciplines and examples of their required coursework are as follows:
- Chemical engineering majors can expect to take a great deal of courses in the physical sciences. Examples include organic chemistry, physical chemistry and biochemistry.
- Civil engineering students are required to take classes in geology, structural design, statics, advanced physics classes and thermodynamics.
- Mechanical engineering majors take classes that study the properties of static structures, fluids and thermodynamics.
- Electrical engineering students are required to take classes in integrated circuit design, materials science and device operations.
- Aerospace engineering majors can expect to take many classes in atmospheric sciences, aerodynamics and structural dynamics.
- Environmental engineering students take classes in geology, environmental science and earth process systems.
- Biological engineering majors complete coursework in bioinformatics, nanotechnology and cell and tissue engineering.