Different Types of Engineering in 2024: Top Universities, Eligibility and Skills

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. 

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

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

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.

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