What is the most versatile engineering degree?

Arguably, all engineering degrees are versatile to some degree. In my humble opinion though, the Big 4 engineering majors (mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical) pretty much encompass any of the specialty type engineering degrees that exist today such as fire protection, petroleum, biomedical, etc. If you're a mechanical engineering major with a focus on energy, I would say you certainly will have quite a versatile degree upon graduation. If you wish to specialize in any one of the specialty areas, a master's program, such as petroleum engineering or alternative energy sources, should help you achieve your goals.

I agree with Pete. In 35 years of being in the chemical manufacturing business, 99% of the engineers we have picked have been chemical, mechanical, electrical and to a lesser extent civil. These are the most versatile. Good luck. PS I have a mechanical engineering degree and worked my whole career in the chemical business. First as an project engineer and finishing up as the North America engineering manager.....all with one degree.

When I was choosing a field of engineering to study, I also wanted the most broad, and I chose Mechanical. I really didn't know what I wanted to do, just knew I was good at math and science. In Mechanical you do get a taste of all the other forms of engineering, and you share many of the same core classes before you go into your specialization in your upper level classes. I would encourage you to join your student chapter of ASME now and be active. Go on as many work site tours as you possible can and make sure what appeals to you in the classroom also makes you happy in real life. And if you want to really stand out from other engineers, up your verbal and written communication skills. A well rounded individual is always a bonus.