Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
The BLS reports that a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering is necessary for most entry-level positions in the field. Students may also choose to complete a two-year pre-engineering degree and find related work as a mechanical drafter. They can then transfer to a four-year school to finish the remaining baccalaureate requirements. Most employers prefer employees to earn a bachelor's degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Bachelor degree coursework includes intermediate and advanced mathematics, life and physical sciences, engineering and design. Students may spend time in the computer lab, too, working with advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software. Students typically take related courses that will prepare them to specialize in one or more sectors of mechanical engineering. For example, medical engineering technology coursework focuses less on theory and more on the practical application of design principles. Internships and co-ops in mechanical engineering are often required as part of a degree program. They are indispensable in providing hands-on experience along with an opportunity to develop professional relationships with mentors and industry contacts. At many schools, students have the option of combining coursework for a bachelor’s and master’s degree as part of a 5-year program. Some colleges offer 5- and 6-year cooperative plans that combine classroom study with practical employment in the field.
Obtain Certifications (Optional)
Certifications, such as those granted by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, allow individuals to show competency in specific fields of mechanical engineering. These fields include advanced control systems design, advanced materials mechanics, stress analysis, convection heat transfer, and dynamic systems. While optional, certifications can benchmark one’s skills for employers and help qualify individuals for career advancement. Joining professional mechanical engineering societies and organizations can also bolster credentials.
Mechanical Engineering Skills
