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Mechanical engineers are essential in creating and maintaining machines and systems. Whether you are interested in earning a degree or enrolling in a short-term course, there are many convenient options available for learning about mechanical engineering.
What is mechanical engineering?
In its most simple terms, mechanical engineering is the study of systems and objects in motion. In practice, mechanical engineers work to build machinery, systems, and tools that individuals and businesses use. Mechanical engineers can be found across industries, including aerospace, energy, biotech, robotics, and manufacturing.
To become an engineer, you typically need to earn a bachelor's degree. Additionally, many states require you to become licensed, which involves passing at least one state-level exam. Studying for these exams may take several months to a year, depending on your knowledge base.
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Choosing the right mechanical engineering program
As all mechanical engineering jobs require at least a bachelor's degree, you'll want to assess your chosen program based on factors like cost, learning environment, industry connections, and prestige.
If you're looking to learn a particular aspect of mechanical engineering, look for the course or certification program that best covers that topic. Be sure to check prerequisites, as some of these courses may build on prior knowledge.
Here are several options to consider.
Mechanical engineering courses and certifications
Courses can help provide an introduction to mechanical engineering or focused learning on a particular aspect of the field. These programs typically last a few weeks and can be completed on your schedule.
Meanwhile, certifications may help you tangibly demonstrate your knowledge to a future employer and organize your learning on a particular topic. Issued by reputable industry organizations, these programs may take several months to complete.
Executive education mechanical engineering programs
If you're a busy executive, an executive education program may help you expand your mechanical engineering skills on your own schedule.
Degree options in mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineers typically need a bachelor's degree to work in the industry. These programs will prepare you with the skills needed to succeed and qualify for licensure, if required by your state. Additionally, advanced degrees like a master's can help you pursue advanced roles with higher salaries.
Jobs and career paths in mechanical engineering
The products and systems created by mechanical engineers can be found everywhere in your everyday life. Every engine, elevator, HVAC system, piece of construction equipment, and car you see has been worked on by a mechanical engineer.
This means that jobs for these professionals are available across industries, including in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, oil and gas, and healthcare.
Beyond a bachelor's degree and supplementary training and experience, a master's degree may be helpful to further your mechanical engineering education or transition to a management role.
With the proper education, you can pursue the following careers:
Mechanical engineer
Mechanical engineers build and maintain the systems, tools, and objects that power our lives. These types of jobs exist in nearly every industry.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2024): $102,320
Engineering manager
Engineering managers, as the name suggests, are responsible for planning and organizing engineering work. For seasoned mechanical engineers, this might be a natural progression as they can apply their knowledge and experience to lead maintenance, manufacturing and other engineering operations.
- Required education: Bachelor's degree
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2024): $167,740
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