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Jaquelin
Student
SeaTac, WA
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What are helpful courses for the career of engineering?
What are helpful courses for engineering
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7 answers
Joanna Martin
Chemical Engineer
5
Answers
Orange, Texas
Updated
Joanna’s Answer
The classes that were helpful for a chemical engineer were process design, thermodynamics, fluids, and heat transfer. The rest of the classes build on the other classes, but the fundamentals are important. In the end school is about building your toolbox for work. Whenever you get your first job you will not know much about the specifics of the process. You will learn that on the job, but you need the basics to understand the specific.
Natalie LaChance
Sr. Analyst Instructional Designer
6
Answers
Gardendale, Alabama
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
If you're contemplating a future in engineering, it's crucial to establish a robust foundation in essential concepts that will bolster your college studies and subsequent engineering career. Here's an enhanced list of suggested courses, complete with explanations:
1. **Mathematics**
- **Calculus**: Engineering curriculums typically kick off with calculus. The more comfortable you are with calculus before college, the better equipped you'll be.
- **Statistics**: Engineers frequently deal with data, so a basic grasp of statistics can be advantageous.
2. **Sciences**
- **Physics**: This is indispensable for most engineering disciplines. Mechanical, civil, electrical, and aerospace engineers regularly apply physics principles.
- **Chemistry**: This is particularly pertinent for chemical, biomedical, and environmental engineers.
- **Biology**: This is vital for biomedical engineering and can also be handy for certain environmental or sustainability-centric fields.
3. **Computer Science**
- **Programming Course**: Basic coding abilities are increasingly crucial for engineers. Whether it's MATLAB, Python, Java, or C++, mastering the logic and problem-solving aspects of coding is beneficial.
4. **Engineering and Technology**
- **Drafting or CAD (Computer-Aided Design)**: Knowing how to create and decipher technical drawings is advantageous, especially for fields like civil or mechanical engineering.
- **Robotics or Electronics**: Practical experience with constructing and troubleshooting circuits or systems can be valuable.
5. **English and Communications**
- **Advanced English or Literature**: Engineers must be competent communicators. Writing technical reports and papers is a significant aspect of many engineering roles.
- **Public Speaking or Debate**: The ability to express your ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences is essential.
6. **Foreign Language**
- Engineers frequently collaborate on international teams, so mastering a second language can be a considerable advantage, particularly if you're thinking about working or studying overseas.
7. **Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses**
- Enrolling in AP or IB courses in any of the aforementioned subjects can help you earn college credits and potentially allow for a more flexible college timetable.
8. **Extracurriculars and Clubs**
- **Science or Engineering Clubs**: Participating in clubs like FIRST Robotics, Science Olympiad, or an engineering club can offer practical experience.
- **Math Clubs or Competitions**: These can help fine-tune your problem-solving abilities.
9. **Electives and Other Interests**
- **Art or Design**: This is beneficial for those contemplating fields like industrial design or any engineering role that demands a sharp aesthetic sense.
- **Environmental Science**: This is for those intrigued by sustainability or environmental engineering.
Finally, remember that it's not just about the courses, but also your attitude towards them. Stay inquisitive, don't shy away from delving deep into subjects, collaborate with classmates, seek internships or shadowing opportunities, and always keep in mind the broader perspective – engineering is about problem-solving and enhancing the world around us.
1. **Mathematics**
- **Calculus**: Engineering curriculums typically kick off with calculus. The more comfortable you are with calculus before college, the better equipped you'll be.
- **Statistics**: Engineers frequently deal with data, so a basic grasp of statistics can be advantageous.
2. **Sciences**
- **Physics**: This is indispensable for most engineering disciplines. Mechanical, civil, electrical, and aerospace engineers regularly apply physics principles.
- **Chemistry**: This is particularly pertinent for chemical, biomedical, and environmental engineers.
- **Biology**: This is vital for biomedical engineering and can also be handy for certain environmental or sustainability-centric fields.
3. **Computer Science**
- **Programming Course**: Basic coding abilities are increasingly crucial for engineers. Whether it's MATLAB, Python, Java, or C++, mastering the logic and problem-solving aspects of coding is beneficial.
4. **Engineering and Technology**
- **Drafting or CAD (Computer-Aided Design)**: Knowing how to create and decipher technical drawings is advantageous, especially for fields like civil or mechanical engineering.
- **Robotics or Electronics**: Practical experience with constructing and troubleshooting circuits or systems can be valuable.
5. **English and Communications**
- **Advanced English or Literature**: Engineers must be competent communicators. Writing technical reports and papers is a significant aspect of many engineering roles.
- **Public Speaking or Debate**: The ability to express your ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences is essential.
6. **Foreign Language**
- Engineers frequently collaborate on international teams, so mastering a second language can be a considerable advantage, particularly if you're thinking about working or studying overseas.
7. **Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses**
- Enrolling in AP or IB courses in any of the aforementioned subjects can help you earn college credits and potentially allow for a more flexible college timetable.
8. **Extracurriculars and Clubs**
- **Science or Engineering Clubs**: Participating in clubs like FIRST Robotics, Science Olympiad, or an engineering club can offer practical experience.
- **Math Clubs or Competitions**: These can help fine-tune your problem-solving abilities.
9. **Electives and Other Interests**
- **Art or Design**: This is beneficial for those contemplating fields like industrial design or any engineering role that demands a sharp aesthetic sense.
- **Environmental Science**: This is for those intrigued by sustainability or environmental engineering.
Finally, remember that it's not just about the courses, but also your attitude towards them. Stay inquisitive, don't shy away from delving deep into subjects, collaborate with classmates, seek internships or shadowing opportunities, and always keep in mind the broader perspective – engineering is about problem-solving and enhancing the world around us.
Praveen Prabhakar
Program Manager
48
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Praveen’s Answer
Engineering is a vibrant and ever-evolving field, so it's crucial to select courses that align with your specific engineering discipline and career aspirations. Here's a list of beneficial courses that are broadly applicable to multiple engineering disciplines:
Mathematics and Calculus:
Engineers need strong mathematical skills. Courses in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations lay the groundwork for engineering analysis.
Physics:
Physics courses delve into fundamental principles relevant to all engineering disciplines. Key topics include mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
Engineering Mechanics:
Courses in statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials are key to understanding how forces and materials interact in engineering designs.
Computer Programming:
Mastering programming languages like Python, C++, or MATLAB can empower engineers to automate tasks, analyze data, and create software applications.
Materials Science:
Grasping the properties of different materials is crucial for crafting safe and efficient engineering solutions. Materials science courses provide this knowledge.
Electrical Circuits:
Understanding basic electrical circuits is useful for a variety of engineering applications, regardless of your specific discipline.
Mechanical Design:
For those in mechanical and related disciplines, mechanical design courses explore topics such as machine elements, kinematics, and mechanical systems.
Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics:
These courses are vital for grasping energy transfer, heat, and fluid behavior, especially in fields like mechanical, aerospace, and chemical engineering.
Control Systems:
Control theory, covering topics like system stability, feedback control, and automation, is key for disciplines such as electrical, mechanical, and aerospace engineering.
Engineering Ethics and Professionalism:
Grasping the ethical aspects and professional responsibilities of an engineer is key to upholding high standards in the profession.
Project Management:
Honing project management skills can help you efficiently manage engineering projects, ensuring they're completed on schedule and within budget.
Data Analysis and Statistics:
In today's data-driven world, these skills are invaluable for making informed decisions, optimizing processes, and conducting experiments.
Environmental and Sustainable Engineering:
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, courses in this area offer insights into creating eco-friendly solutions.
Communication Skills:
Engineers need to be able to clearly convey complex ideas. Courses in technical writing and communication can help enhance this skill.
Specialized Courses:
Based on your specific engineering discipline (civil, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, chemical, etc.), you should consider taking relevant specialized courses.
Bear in mind that engineering is a dynamic field. Staying abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies through ongoing learning and professional development is crucial. Moreover, your course selection may also hinge on your career goals, whether you're drawn to research, design, management, or another subfield within engineering.
Mathematics and Calculus:
Engineers need strong mathematical skills. Courses in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations lay the groundwork for engineering analysis.
Physics:
Physics courses delve into fundamental principles relevant to all engineering disciplines. Key topics include mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
Engineering Mechanics:
Courses in statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials are key to understanding how forces and materials interact in engineering designs.
Computer Programming:
Mastering programming languages like Python, C++, or MATLAB can empower engineers to automate tasks, analyze data, and create software applications.
Materials Science:
Grasping the properties of different materials is crucial for crafting safe and efficient engineering solutions. Materials science courses provide this knowledge.
Electrical Circuits:
Understanding basic electrical circuits is useful for a variety of engineering applications, regardless of your specific discipline.
Mechanical Design:
For those in mechanical and related disciplines, mechanical design courses explore topics such as machine elements, kinematics, and mechanical systems.
Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics:
These courses are vital for grasping energy transfer, heat, and fluid behavior, especially in fields like mechanical, aerospace, and chemical engineering.
Control Systems:
Control theory, covering topics like system stability, feedback control, and automation, is key for disciplines such as electrical, mechanical, and aerospace engineering.
Engineering Ethics and Professionalism:
Grasping the ethical aspects and professional responsibilities of an engineer is key to upholding high standards in the profession.
Project Management:
Honing project management skills can help you efficiently manage engineering projects, ensuring they're completed on schedule and within budget.
Data Analysis and Statistics:
In today's data-driven world, these skills are invaluable for making informed decisions, optimizing processes, and conducting experiments.
Environmental and Sustainable Engineering:
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, courses in this area offer insights into creating eco-friendly solutions.
Communication Skills:
Engineers need to be able to clearly convey complex ideas. Courses in technical writing and communication can help enhance this skill.
Specialized Courses:
Based on your specific engineering discipline (civil, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, chemical, etc.), you should consider taking relevant specialized courses.
Bear in mind that engineering is a dynamic field. Staying abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies through ongoing learning and professional development is crucial. Moreover, your course selection may also hinge on your career goals, whether you're drawn to research, design, management, or another subfield within engineering.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
364
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Jaquelin, what a fantastic question! Let's explore the different types of engineering you might want to consider.
1. Aeronautical Engineering
If you're fascinated by aircraft, spacecraft, and the mysteries of the universe, aeronautical engineering could be your calling. This field involves the research, design, development, testing, and construction of aircraft and spacecraft. It's a thrilling journey into the world of aviation and space exploration. If you're captivated by the mechanics of flying machines and computer simulations, this might be the perfect fit for you!
2. Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is a unique blend of natural and experimental sciences, life sciences, mathematics, and economics. It's all about using chemical and biological processes to create beneficial materials. If you have a passion for chemistry and a knack for understanding the chemical processes behind everyday items, this could be the ideal engineering path for you.
3. Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is all about designing and developing infrastructure projects. From national highways and water supply networks to single roads and buildings, civil engineers shape our world. If you're interested in contributing to the infrastructure that supports our daily lives, this could be the right choice.
4. Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is a fascinating fusion of computer science and electrical engineering. It involves designing and prototyping computing software and hardware. If you're drawn to software development, love science, mathematics, and computers, and want to build new systems based on the latest technological advancements, this could be the perfect engineering course for you.
5. Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering focuses on applications of electrical power. Electrical engineers work on large-scale power production and supply, while electronics and communications engineers work on smaller electronic circuits. If you're intrigued by electrical circuits, digital gadgets, signal systems, power electronics, and more, this might be your ideal engineering path.
6. Industrial Engineering
Industrial engineering is a unique blend of engineering and business practices aimed at improving quality, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs. If you're a people person who values safety and productivity, this could be the perfect engineering course for you.
7. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a broad and ancient field that deals with the design and manufacturing of mechanical systems. You'll encounter subjects like thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, statics and dynamics, mechanical design, stress analysis, and engineering graphics. If you're fascinated by how things work and love the idea of designing and creating mechanical systems, this could be the perfect choice for you.
1. Aeronautical Engineering
If you're fascinated by aircraft, spacecraft, and the mysteries of the universe, aeronautical engineering could be your calling. This field involves the research, design, development, testing, and construction of aircraft and spacecraft. It's a thrilling journey into the world of aviation and space exploration. If you're captivated by the mechanics of flying machines and computer simulations, this might be the perfect fit for you!
2. Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is a unique blend of natural and experimental sciences, life sciences, mathematics, and economics. It's all about using chemical and biological processes to create beneficial materials. If you have a passion for chemistry and a knack for understanding the chemical processes behind everyday items, this could be the ideal engineering path for you.
3. Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is all about designing and developing infrastructure projects. From national highways and water supply networks to single roads and buildings, civil engineers shape our world. If you're interested in contributing to the infrastructure that supports our daily lives, this could be the right choice.
4. Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is a fascinating fusion of computer science and electrical engineering. It involves designing and prototyping computing software and hardware. If you're drawn to software development, love science, mathematics, and computers, and want to build new systems based on the latest technological advancements, this could be the perfect engineering course for you.
5. Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering focuses on applications of electrical power. Electrical engineers work on large-scale power production and supply, while electronics and communications engineers work on smaller electronic circuits. If you're intrigued by electrical circuits, digital gadgets, signal systems, power electronics, and more, this might be your ideal engineering path.
6. Industrial Engineering
Industrial engineering is a unique blend of engineering and business practices aimed at improving quality, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs. If you're a people person who values safety and productivity, this could be the perfect engineering course for you.
7. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a broad and ancient field that deals with the design and manufacturing of mechanical systems. You'll encounter subjects like thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, statics and dynamics, mechanical design, stress analysis, and engineering graphics. If you're fascinated by how things work and love the idea of designing and creating mechanical systems, this could be the perfect choice for you.
Nicole Rotschi
1
Answer
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Dear Jaquelin,
It's wonderful to hear that you're contemplating a career in the diverse world of engineering. The field you choose to focus on will typically lay out a clear path for your successful journey. Here are some common subjects that most engineering disciplines require:
1. Basics of Mechanical Engineering
2. Designing Machines
3. Calculus
4. Physics
5. Manufacturing Techniques
6. Science and Engineering of Materials
7. Computer Science and Programming
Imagine, for instance, you're drawn towards energy infrastructure. In this case, you'd be looking at a career in civil engineering. Your role would involve strategizing energy-related infrastructure and its distribution. As an aspiring energy infrastructure civil engineer, you might find yourself studying subjects like Engineering Mathematics, Fluid Mechanics, Energy Systems and Sustainability, Structural Analysis and Design, and Smart Grids and Energy Management.
If your interest leans more towards mechanical engineering, your study roster may include subjects like Engineering Graphics and CAD, Machine Dynamics, Materials Science and Engineering, and Robotics. The path of an engineer working in machine learning will differ from that of an engineer specializing in biochemistry.
The thrilling part is that all these possibilities are right in front of you, ready for you to explore. Invest time in understanding the kind of engineer you aspire to be. Make use of available resources like academic advisors, university websites detailing graduation requirements, professionals in the field, libraries, and even YouTube. Get ready to immerse yourself in a STEM curriculum and consider joining a relevant student organization or club.
Best wishes on your exciting journey. Engineers shape the world we live in, and it's inspiring that you're eager to make such a significant impact.
Research types of engineers.
Research universities that offer degrees in the field that you find the best suited for your needs.
Check out the academic plan for that degree to get an idea of what classes are necessary.
Soak up the knowledge from libraries, online media, and professionals you may know.
Meet with an academic advisor to go over your specific plan.
It's wonderful to hear that you're contemplating a career in the diverse world of engineering. The field you choose to focus on will typically lay out a clear path for your successful journey. Here are some common subjects that most engineering disciplines require:
1. Basics of Mechanical Engineering
2. Designing Machines
3. Calculus
4. Physics
5. Manufacturing Techniques
6. Science and Engineering of Materials
7. Computer Science and Programming
Imagine, for instance, you're drawn towards energy infrastructure. In this case, you'd be looking at a career in civil engineering. Your role would involve strategizing energy-related infrastructure and its distribution. As an aspiring energy infrastructure civil engineer, you might find yourself studying subjects like Engineering Mathematics, Fluid Mechanics, Energy Systems and Sustainability, Structural Analysis and Design, and Smart Grids and Energy Management.
If your interest leans more towards mechanical engineering, your study roster may include subjects like Engineering Graphics and CAD, Machine Dynamics, Materials Science and Engineering, and Robotics. The path of an engineer working in machine learning will differ from that of an engineer specializing in biochemistry.
The thrilling part is that all these possibilities are right in front of you, ready for you to explore. Invest time in understanding the kind of engineer you aspire to be. Make use of available resources like academic advisors, university websites detailing graduation requirements, professionals in the field, libraries, and even YouTube. Get ready to immerse yourself in a STEM curriculum and consider joining a relevant student organization or club.
Best wishes on your exciting journey. Engineers shape the world we live in, and it's inspiring that you're eager to make such a significant impact.
Nicole recommends the following next steps:
Sarah Skillern
Chemical Engineer
8
Answers
Port Arthur, Texas
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Most engineering courses required in a program will be useful.
All engineers will typically start with basic courses, introduction to engineering, physics, chemistry, calculus, differential equations.
Upper level classes start to specialize. Chemical Engineers study thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mass transfer, reaction kinetics. I really enjoyed our "unit operations" labs where we would perform practical experiments that prepare you well for real-world chemical engineering applications.
Other common engineering courses are statics & dynamics, mechanics, electricity & magnetism (physics)
Consider looking up sample course loads for engineering degrees, to get an idea of what type of classes engineering students will take
All engineers will typically start with basic courses, introduction to engineering, physics, chemistry, calculus, differential equations.
Upper level classes start to specialize. Chemical Engineers study thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mass transfer, reaction kinetics. I really enjoyed our "unit operations" labs where we would perform practical experiments that prepare you well for real-world chemical engineering applications.
Other common engineering courses are statics & dynamics, mechanics, electricity & magnetism (physics)
Sarah recommends the following next steps:
Robert Fransee
Robotic Weld Technician
1
Answer
Prescott, Michigan
Updated
Robert’s Answer
You should anticipate & prepare for taking the following courses over the span of 4-5 years in order to earn a BS in your chosen engineering field. Please keep in mind that a degree in ANY engineering field will open doors to careers in a wide range of industries.
COURSES TO EXPECT;
Math & Science courses with Labs.
Chemistry,Physics.
Engineering fundamentals,design & practices.
Engineering modelling(CAD,etc.).
Dynamics & Mechanics.
And depending on the focus include other courses in computers,robotics,programming,mechatronics,etc.
My best advice is to master the fundamentals in STEM fields, get good at math, and volunteer as an intern whenever possible to get a better idea of what that particular occupation is really like.
COURSES TO EXPECT;
Math & Science courses with Labs.
Chemistry,Physics.
Engineering fundamentals,design & practices.
Engineering modelling(CAD,etc.).
Dynamics & Mechanics.
And depending on the focus include other courses in computers,robotics,programming,mechatronics,etc.
My best advice is to master the fundamentals in STEM fields, get good at math, and volunteer as an intern whenever possible to get a better idea of what that particular occupation is really like.