Have you ever wondered about the people behind the bridges we cross, the gadgets we use, and the buildings we admire? Engineers are the unsung heroes who make it all happen. In this blog, we’ll examine the different types of engineering and what makes each one special.
According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, the number of students studying engineering abroad has risen over the past few years. In 2019, approximately 1.3 million students were studying engineering abroad, a 5% increase from the previous year. Engineering students studying abroad are expected to increase in 2021 and beyond.
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Here’s a cool fact: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering jobs are expected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030. That means more engineers are needed to tackle exciting challenges and create amazing things. |
As we dive into the details, we’ll uncover the different types of engineering and explore how each type impacts our daily lives.
At a Glance:
Top Countries to Pursue Engineering | USA, UK, Canada and Singapore |
Top Courses in Engineering | Computer Science and Engineering Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering Civil Engineering Chemical Engineering Aerospace Engineering |
Job Opportunities in Engineering | Software Engineer Petroleum Engineer Computer Hardware Engineer Computer Engineer Aviation Manager |
Requirements to Pursue Engineering | Personal statement or essay Language Proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL |
Average Annual Tuition Fee | Undergraduate: 33L-74L Post-graduate: 11L-66L Doctorate: 14L-45L |
Average Annual Salary | 50L-1Cr |
Different Types of Engineering: Top Courses
Engineering encompasses various branches, each specialising in distinct aspects of technology and industry. Problem-solving is a core aspect inherent in all engineering disciplines.
There are approximately six major branches of engineering, including marine engineering, mechanical engineering, and aeronautical engineering.
Some of the top engineering specialisations are mentioned below:
Name of the Specialisation | Average Annual Tuition Fee in INR |
Computer Science and Engineering | 16L-41L |
Mechanical Engineering | 16L-41L |
Electrical Engineering | 16L-41L |
Solar Engineering | 8L-33L |
Wind Energy Engineering | 8L-33L |
Nanotechnology | 10L-41L |
Environmental Engineering | 8L-41L |
Marine Engineering | 10L-41L |
Information Security | 15L-41L |
Software Development | 10L-41L |
Biomedical Engineering | 12L-41L |
Civil Engineering | 8L-33L |
Aerospace Engineering | 15L-41L |
Chemical Engineering | 12L-41L |
Electrical and Electronics Engineering | 12L-41L |
Petroleum Engineering | 16L-41L |
Telecommunication Engineering | 15L-41L |
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence | 16L-41L |
Robotics Engineering | 16L-41L |
Biochemical Engineering | 10L-33L |
Other engineering types often fall under or connect to one of these major branches, forming a comprehensive framework for technological innovation and systematic issue resolution.
Let’s look at different types of engineering closely:
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a highly versatile branch responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining mechanical systems, including machines, tools, and engines. This field requires a deep understanding and application of principles from physics, materials science, and mathematics.
Mechanical engineers can design various things like automobiles, aircraft, robots, medical devices, heating and cooling systems, and power generation equipment. They also contribute to initiatives to reduce environmental impact and enhance safety across different industries.
Overview:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | 16L-41L |
Job Prospects | Mechanical Design Engineer Manufacturing Engineer Research and Development Engineer Project Engineer Quality Control Engineer |
Average Annual Salary | 72L |
Popular Countries | USA Canada UK Germany Australia |
Top 5 Universities to Pursue | The University of Melbourne Technical University of Munich University of Cambridge University of Toronto Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Popular Course Name | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering PhD in Mechanical Engineering Robotics and Control Engineering Automotive Engineering Aerospace Engineering Materials Science and Engineering Mechatronics Engineering |
You may opt for a more specialised engineering degree that aligns closely with mechanical engineering, and these are separate degrees from mechanical engineering, not specialisations within it, such as the following:
Also Read: Aeronautical Engineering Salary in the US in 2024 Aerospace Engineering Salary In The USA 2024 Study Aerospace Engineering in Canada |
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Electrical Engineering
As its name implies, electrical engineering focuses on exploring and applying electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. It is a significant branch within the field of engineering. The domain involves generating and distributing power and using it to control machines and devices.
This discipline is pivotal in providing power to residences, advancing electronic devices, and guaranteeing the effectiveness of diverse electrical systems employed in industrial settings and daily routines.
Electrical engineers leverage their expertise to pioneer advancements and refine electrical energy and information processing technologies.
Overview:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | 16L-41L |
Job Prospects | Power Engineer Control Systems Engineer Electronics Engineer Telecommunications Engineer |
Average Annual Salary | 63L |
Popular Countries | USA Canada The UK Germany Australia |
Top 5 Universities | The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University The University of California, Berkeley The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) The University of Cambridge |
Popular Course Name | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Master of Science in Electrical Engineering PhD in Electrical Engineering Power Systems Engineering Control Systems Engineering Telecommunications Engineering Computer Engineering |
You may opt for a more specialised engineering degree that aligns closely with Electrical engineering, and these are separate degrees from Electrical engineering, not specialisations within it, such as the following:
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering primarily centres on the construction of infrastructure, such as bridges, roads, and buildings, as well as the design aspects within our society. Civil engineers guarantee that structures are secure, efficient, and sustainable.
This field involves applying principles derived from physics, mathematics, and materials science to formulate and supervise projects that contribute to the overall welfare of communities.
Civil engineers are indispensable in shaping the physical environment and addressing the intricate challenges associated with urbanisation and infrastructure development.
Their expertise is pivotal in creating a built environment that is functional and aligned with safety standards, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
Overview:
Average Tuition Fee | 8L-40L |
Job Prospects | Water Resource Engineer Environmental Engineer Geotechnical Engineer Transportation Engineer |
Average Salary | 41L-1Cr |
Popular Countries | USA Canada Australia the United Kingdom Germany, UAE |
Top 5 Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of Cambridge University of California – Berkeley Imperial College London |
Popular Courses | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Master of Science in Civil Engineering PhD in Civil Engineering Structural Engineering Environmental Engineering Geotechnical Engineering. |
You may opt for a more specialised engineering degree that aligns closely with Civil engineering, and these are separate degrees from Civil engineering, not specialisations within it, such as the following:
Also Read: 5 Best Countries For Masters In Civil Engineering Abroad Top 8 Colleges For Masters In Civil Engineering In Canada Masters In Civil Engineering In UK |
Explore all countries
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is all about using chemicals to create useful things. It’s a type of engineering that turns raw materials into useful products, such as medicines, plastics, and fuels.
Chemical engineers use their chemistry, physics, and math knowledge to design and operate the equipment and processes involved in making these products. They also ensure these processes are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Overview:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | 16L-41L |
Job Prospects | Process Engineer Product Development Engineer Research Engineer Quality Control Engineer |
Average Annual Salary | 41L-82L |
Popular Countries | United States Canada Australia The United Kingdom Singapore |
Top 5 Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University University of California – Berkeley University of Cambridge Imperial College London |
Popular Courses | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering Master of Science in Chemical Engineering PhD in Chemical Engineering Process Engineering Materials Engineering Biochemical Engineering |
You may opt for a more specialised engineering degree that aligns closely with Chemical engineering, and these are separate degrees from Chemical engineering, not specialisations within it, such as the following:
Industrial Engineering
Industrial engineering is a type of engineering that concentrates on making systems and processes better in different industries. Industrial engineers aim to make things work more efficiently, reduce waste, and boost productivity in manufacturing and services.
They focus on aspects such as managing the supply chain, ensuring quality, planning production, designing facilities, and optimising resources.
Industrial engineers often collaborate with experts from various fields to reach the organisation’s overall goals, using a comprehensive and integrated approach to solve problems.
Overview:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | 17L-35L |
Job Prospects | Manufacturing Engineer Quality Engineer Process Engineer Operations Manager Supply Chain Manager Data Analyst |
Average Annual Salary | 60L |
Popular Countries | the United States Canada Germany Japan the United Kingdom |
Top 5 Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Georgia Institute of Technology Stanford University University of California – Berkeley University of Michigan – Ann Arbor |
Popular Courses | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Master of Science in Industrial Engineering PhD in Industrial Engineering Operations Research Supply Chain Management Quality Control and Management |
You may opt for a more specialised engineering degree that aligns closely with Industrial engineering, and these are separate degrees from Industrial engineering, not specialisations within it, such as the following:
Software Engineering
Software engineering is a field of engineering that involves creating and maintaining software systems. Software engineers use their computer science, software design, and math knowledge to build software that meets the needs of businesses and individuals.
Software engineers work on projects such as mobile apps, websites, and video games. They ensure that their software is secure, reliable, and efficient.
Overview:
Average Annual Tuition Fee | 8L-41L |
Job Prospects | Software Developer Web Developer Mobile App Developer Quality Assurance Engineer Software Architect |
Average Annual Salary | 74L-85L |
Popular Countries | the United States Canada Australia Germany the United Kingdom |
Top 5 Universities | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Stanford University Carnegie Mellon University University of California – Berkeley University of Oxford |
Popular Courses | Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering Master of Science in Software Engineering PhD in Software Engineering Computer Science Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity |
Different types of Engineering jobs in 2024
In engineering, the best job can depend on what you like. But generally, a good job has many chances to grow, get promoted, and have a bright future. It should also pay well and allow you to balance work and life. Jobs like software, marine, industrial, and materials engineers often have higher salaries.
The duties and the average salary of the different types of engineering jobs are given below:
Job Title | Average Annual Salary in INR | Job Growth Rate (2022-32) |
Chemical engineer | 87L | 4% |
Computer engineer | 1Cr | 10% |
Biomedical engineer | 80L | 5% |
Petroleum engineer | 1 Cr | 3% |
Mechanical engineer | 78L | 4% |
Electrical engineer | 83L | 3% |
Civil engineer | 72L | 2% |
Aeronautical engineer | 77L | 3% |
Nuclear engineer | 99L | 1% |
Environmental engineer | 80L | 8% |
Computer Hardware Engineer | 1 Cr | 2% |
Industrial Engineer | 78L | 8% |
Software engineer | 1 Cr | 10% |
Marine engineer | 77L | 1% |
Now, let’s explore each role and responsibility of different types of engineering:
- 1. Chemical Engineer:
- Role: Design processes to turn raw materials into useful products.
- Responsibilities: Ensure safe and efficient production, solve problems in manufacturing, and improve processes.
- 2. Computer Engineer:
- Role: Works on computer hardware and software to ensure they run well.
- Responsibilities: Design and test computer systems, develop software, and solve technical issues.
- 3. Biomedical Engineer:
- Role: Combines engineering principles with medical sciences for healthcare solutions.
- Responsibilities: Develop medical devices, design healthcare systems, and improve medical technologies.
- 4. Petroleum Engineer:
- Role: Focuses on extracting oil and gas from the earth.
- Responsibilities: Design drilling methods, optimise production, and ensure efficient resource extraction.
- 5. Mechanical Engineer:
- Role: Deals with mechanical systems and devices.
- Responsibilities: Design machines, solve mechanical problems, and improve manufacturing processes.
- 6. Electrical Engineer:
- Role: Works on electrical systems and devices.
- Responsibilities: Design electrical circuits, develop electronic devices, and ensure smooth power distribution.
- 7. Civil Engineer:
- Role: Designs and oversees construction projects.
- Responsibilities: Plan and supervise the building of structures like bridges, buildings, and roads.
- 8. Aeronautical Engineer:
- Role: Designs and tests aircraft and spacecraft.
- Responsibilities: Ensure the safety and efficiency of flight, design components, and solve engineering challenges.
- 9. Nuclear Engineer:
- Role: Focuses on applications of nuclear energy.
- Responsibilities: Work on nuclear power plants, medical uses of radiation, and ensure safety in nuclear processes.
- 10. Environmental Engineer:
- Role: Addresses environmental issues using engineering solutions.
- Responsibilities: Develop and implement solutions for pollution control, waste management, and sustainable practices.
- 11. Computer Hardware Engineer:
- Role: Designs and develops computer hardware components.
- Responsibilities: Create and test computer parts like processors and memory.
- 12. Industrial Engineer:
- Role: Improves efficiency in production and business processes.
- Responsibilities: Analyse workflows, suggest improvements, and optimise resource utilisation.
- 13. Software Engineer:
- Role: Develops and maintains software applications.
- Responsibilities: Code, test, and troubleshoot software and collaborate on creating computer programs.
- 14. Marine Engineer:
- Role: Deals with the design and maintenance of ships and maritime structures.
- Responsibilities: Ensure the smooth operation of marine systems, design ship components, and oversee repairs.
Also Read: Computer Science vs Computer Engineering
Top Recruiters for Different Types of Engineering Jobs
1. Google: Known for its technology and innovation, Google hires engineers for various positions, including software engineering, hardware engineering, and mechanical engineering.
2. Boeing: As a leading aerospace company, Boeing offers opportunities for aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software engineers.
3. Siemens: Siemens is a global engineering and technology company that hires engineers for roles in energy, healthcare, infrastructure, and industry.
4. Apple: Apple recruits engineers for hardware and software development roles, including positions in product design, electrical engineering, and software engineering.
5. Shell: Shell is a multinational oil and gas company that offers opportunities for petroleum engineers, chemical engineers, mechanical engineers, and civil engineers.
6. Tesla: Tesla, known for its electric vehicles and renewable energy solutions, hires engineers for roles in automotive engineering, battery technology, and sustainable energy.
7. Amazon: Amazon hires engineers for positions in software development, cloud computing, robotics, and logistics, among others.
8. ExxonMobil: ExxonMobil is another major player in the oil and gas industry, offering opportunities for engineers in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
9. Microsoft: Microsoft recruits engineers for roles in software development, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and hardware engineering.
10. General Electric (GE): GE is a diversified technology and manufacturing company that hires engineers for positions in aviation, healthcare, renewable energy, and industrial applications.
These are just a few examples of top recruiters for engineering jobs abroad. Depending on your specialisation and career goals, many other companies around the world offer exciting opportunities for engineers.
Also Read: Computer Science vs Computer Engineering
Different Types of Engineering: Top 5 Universities
Now that you know about the different types of engineering, it’s time to consider where to study. There are many universities worldwide that offer engineering courses. Some of the top are the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and Stanford University.
Many universities offer engineering courses online and through distance learning in addition to traditional on-campus programs. When deciding where to apply, it’s important to research and compare universities based on factors such as the engineering programs’ reputation, the faculty’s expertise, research opportunities, campus facilities, and student support services.
Mentioned below are some of the top universities for pursuing different types of engineering:
Name of the University | Country | Average Annual Tuition Fee in INR |
Harvard University | USA | 45L |
Stanford University | USA | 35L |
Massachusetts Institue of Technology | USA | 47L |
University of Oxford | UK | 40L |
National University of Singapore | Singapore | 40L |
Eligibility Criteria & Documents Required in Different Types of Universities
Elements | Bachelors | Masters |
Eligibility Criteria | You need to have completed secondary education or an equivalent, and many universities require a high school diploma focusing on science and mathematics | You generally need to have completed a relevant bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related field |
Proficiency in the language of instruction (usually English) is often required, and you might need to take standardised tests like the TOEFL or IELTS | Many universities set a minimum GPA requirement for admission into master’s programs | |
Some countries may require you to take standardised entrance exams like the SAT (for the USA) or other country-specific exams | Like in bachelor’s programs, language proficiency in the language of instruction is necessary. You may also need to take tests like the TOEFL or IELTS |
The documents required to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering abroad generally share some common elements, but there are differences based on the level of study.
Elements | Bachelors | Masters |
Documents Required | Proof of completion of secondary education. | Proof of completion of undergraduate studies. |
Some countries or universities may require SAT or ACT scores for bachelor’s admissions. | Some master’s programs may require or prefer relevant work experience. | |
Research proposals are not required during the admission process. | Research proposals are often required for research-based master’s programs. |
Key skills required in different types of engineering
All engineers, regardless of their specific field, should have certain skills to be successful. Here are some important ones:
- Analytical skills:
- Engineers need to be good at understanding complex problems and finding practical solutions.
- Creativity:
- Thinking creatively is crucial for engineers to develop new ideas and designs.
- Attention to detail:
- Engineers must be careful and exact in their work to make sure designs are accurate and safe.
- Communication skills:
- Engineers should be able to explain their designs and ideas clearly to other engineers, clients, and stakeholders.
- Project management:
- Engineers need to be able to handle projects well, which includes setting timelines, managing budgets, and tracking progress.
- Technical skills:
- Engineers should be skilled in the technical aspects of their field, including using the necessary software and tools.
- Teamwork:
- Many engineering projects involve working with other professionals, so engineers must be good at collaborating in a team.
These skills are important for engineering success, and employers highly value engineers who possess them.
Summing Up
The world of engineering has many exciting possibilities. Each type of engineering offers special chances to come up with new ideas and solve problems. Whether you like building bridges, creating computer programs, or finding ways to use energy wisely, there’s an engineering field that fits your interests.
As we deal with new challenges and explore new areas, engineers will be super important in deciding how our world will be. So, if you enjoy science and technology and want to make a positive impact, think about a career in engineering. You could be one of the amazing people quietly working to improve our world, one smart idea at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the main types of engineering?
A. The main types of engineering are:
1. Civil Engineering: Involves the design and construction of infrastructure such as roads, buildings, bridges, and water supply systems.
2. Chemical Engineering: Focuses on the design and operation of chemical processes used to produce materials and energy.
3. Electrical Engineering: Deals with the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism in designing and developing electrical systems and devices.
4. Mechanical Engineering: Involves the design, development, and maintenance of mechanical systems used in various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and energy.
5. Aerospace Engineering: Concerned with the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles.
6. Aeronautical Engineering: Specialises in designing and developing aircraft and related systems, including propulsion and aerodynamics.
Q. Which engineering has the highest salary?
A. The salary in engineering varies, but traditionally, some fields offer higher incomes. For instance, specialities like petroleum engineering, computer science, and electrical engineering often command higher salaries due to industry demand and the complexity of the work involved. However, individual circumstances and locations play a significant role in determining actual earnings.
Q. What are the different types of engineering jobs?
A. The different types of engineering jobs are:
1. Civil engineer
2. Mechanical engineer
3. Electrical engineer
4. Chemical engineer
5. Aerospace engineer
6. Computer engineer
7. Biomedical engineer.
Q. What are the different types of engineering courses available for international students abroad?
A. Engineering is a diverse field with various branches, offering unique opportunities. Civil engineering involves infrastructure, and mechanical engineering focuses on machinery, electrical engineering deals with electronics, chemical engineering covers chemical processes, and computer science/engineering revolves around software and hardware. Aerospace and biomedical engineering are also prominent branches, making the field dynamic and expansive for international students.
Q. What do the different types of engineers do?
A. Engineers play diverse roles across various disciplines. Civil engineers design and manage construction projects, while mechanical engineers focus on machinery and systems. Electrical engineers work on electrical devices, and chemical engineers oversee chemical processes. Computer engineers develop and enhance computer systems. Aerospace engineers specialize in aircraft and spacecraft design, and biomedical engineers combine engineering with healthcare.
Q. Which engineer is most in demand?
A. The demand for engineers varies across different specialities and industries. Software, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers were among the most in-demand. However, trends can change, and it’s essential to consider current factors such as technological advancements, industry needs, and global events. Checking recent job market reports or consulting with career advisors can provide up-to-date information on the most in-demand engineering fields.
Q. Which country is best to pursue an engineering degree?
A. The best country to pursue an engineering degree depends on various factors, including personal preferences, career goals, and the reputation of universities. However, countries like the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia are often considered among the best for engineering education due to their renowned institutions, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong emphasis on innovation in the field.
Q. How are different types of engineering unique from each other?
A. Different types of engineering are unique from each other based on their focus areas and applications. Civil engineering deals with infrastructure and construction, electrical engineering involves electrical systems, and mechanical engineering focuses on machinery and devices. Chemical engineering works with chemical processes, while aerospace engineering deals with aircraft and spacecraft. Each type has specialized knowledge and skills, making them distinct in their applications and contributions to various industries.
Q. Are there common skills required for different types of engineering?
A. Yes, there are common skills required for different types of engineering. Analytical skills, creativity, attention to detail, communication skills, project management abilities, strong technical skills, and teamwork are essential across various engineering disciplines. These skills contribute to success in problem-solving, innovation, and effective collaboration within the diverse engineering field.
Q. Can I switch between different types of engineering during my career?
A. Yes, transitioning between different types of engineering is possible during your career. Many engineers switch specialities or pursue interdisciplinary roles to explore diverse aspects of the field. Continuous learning and skill development play crucial roles in making such transitions successful.
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