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Mechanical Engineering

Because engineering encompasses so many disciplines, coursework will vary depending on your chosen path. General engineering courses can cover scientific, mathematical, and technical concepts. Many engineering fields require knowledge of physics and mechanics, which may be part of an engineering course curriculum, or may be covered in prerequisite courses.Â

After you study engineering, you may choose to pursue a career in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, or another subfield.

Engineering knowledge can open up new career opportunities. The functions that you will perform depend on the type of engineering that you pursue.Â

Engineering types

Training for engineers requires extensive mathematical skills, including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.Footnote 5 Most engineering subfields regularly draw from mathematics, whether to calculate the strength of materials or to determine the optimal sizing of device components. Strong math skills will be an asset during your in-person or online engineering training.

Engineering Mechanics

The requirements to become an engineer vary by jurisdiction and job title, but a bachelor’s degree in engineering may be necessary for entry-level jobs, while additional education, such as a master’s degree in engineering, may be required for advanced positions and positions in specific fields.Footnote 2 You can pursue this qualification by enrolling in an online engineering course that leads to a degree. In addition, you may have to take an examination after completing your coursework and meet other requirements to become an officially licensed engineer.Footnote 3

Engineers in every specialization need strong problem-solving abilities and working knowledge of data modeling, structural analysis, and computer science.Footnote 1 Whether you have a creative or analytical personality, engineering can engage your mind and challenge you professionally.

An online engineering class allows you to learn engineering in a flexible setting while gaining requisite skills for a career in the field. Rather than relocating to a new state or following a rigid schedule, online learners can learn at their own pace, on their own time, and from wherever they are most comfortable. The coursework you will encounter in your engineering classes will vary depending on your chosen specialization. As you explore programs, keep in mind what field interests you and where you have the strongest foundation.

Engineering salary

Be sure to check your state or country’s requirements for practicing as an engineer. Licensing requirements for engineers vary by location and job title and  may also include educational requirements, such as obtaining a degree from an accredited university.Footnote 4

Engineering games

Engineering uses science, math, and technology to solve challenges and fuel technological innovation. From civil engineers who create optimal layouts for cities to software engineers who develop our favorite apps, these tech professionals power much of the world around us. Every time you use an electronic device, drive across a bridge, or fly in an airplane, you’re experiencing the ingenuity of engineers at work.

Engineering Mathematics

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Training for engineers is generally considered to be challenging, since engineering training courses typically require extensive technical and mathematical skills. To succeed in your coursework, you’ll need a strong background in math and science, as well as a knack for problem-solving and the creativity to develop original solutions.

If you want to study engineering online, there are many courses available. For example, edX offers a wide selection of online engineering courses, online engineering courses with certificates, and engineering degree programs, including an engineering master’s degree program. This comprehensive, diverse suite of learning opportunities covers topics such as:

It’s also important to develop essential soft skills, such as critical thinking and analysis. Learning to think outside the box and find new solutions to problems is key to succeeding as an engineer.Â

Civil engineering: the creation and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, tunnels, public transit systems, and more.

Most engineering degree programs take about four years to complete. This is true whether you study engineering online or in person. If you decide to pursue a master’s degree in your chosen engineering field, this typically takes an additional one to two years.

Whether you’re interested in becoming an automotive engineer, an engineering project manager, or a supply chain engineer, gaining the requisite skills is the first step. Start your learning journey and prepare for an exciting career in engineering. Explore the learning opportunities that edX offers, which include everything from shorter, intensive boot camps to full graduate degrees.