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A mechanical engineering degree program can provide the basic
knowledge and disciplines needed for competency in the diverse
field. Mechanical engineering college prepares students with
fundamental subjects including static and dynamic applications,
energy conversion, mechatronics, control theory, and even
drafting. Direct application of physics and chemistry is a
requirement in this field, and many specialized programs are
also available. A mechanical engineer makes use of both
problem-solving and decision-making skills for a variety of
projects and methodologies. In addition to a standard mechanical
engineering college, pursuing a mechanical engineering degree
online allows many students to complete their education and
training with more flexibility.
What Is Mechanical
Engineering?
Mechanical
engineering is a specialization in the field of engineering involved with the
design, manufacturing, and maintenance of various mechanical systems. The most
common practices involved include kinematics, thermodynamics, energy, and
general mechanics. Mechanical engineers are commonly involved with implementing
and designing various engineering systems, such as cooling systems, industrial
equipment and machinery, and manufacturing plants.
Job Description and
Responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineer
A
mechanical engineer is commonly involved with projects such as:
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Development and design of various mechanical design projects
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Product
design and development
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Manufacturing and production engineering
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Installation of thermal fluid and mechanical systems
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Design
and analysis of energy
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Working
on mechanical engineering projects overseas
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Collaborating with a mechanical engineering team
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Overseeing a staff of other mechanical engineers
A
mechanical engineering degree can provide students with a rich education in
science, mathematics, statistics, and basic engineering science.
Typical Mechanical
Engineering Careers
After completion of a
mechanical engineering degree program, graduates can choose from a diverse range
of disciplines within the mechanical engineering field. The most common
mechanical engineering careers available include positions in:
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General mechanics
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Kinematics
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Mechatronics and robotics
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Structural analysis
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Thermodynamics
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Drafting
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Acoustical engineering
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Computer-aided engineering
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Biomedical engineering
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Automotive engineering
General mechanics is a
subdiscipline of mechanical engineering, and usually involves the study of
statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, and continuum mechanics. Mechanical
engineers in this area are commonly involved with the design and analysis phases
of engineering. Kinematics is the study of the motion of bodies and systems, and
those who pursue mechanical engineering careers in this field are often involved
with the design, analysis, and implementation of mechanisms.
Mechatronics is an
interdisciplinary branch of mechanical engineering, and is primarily concerned
with creating hybrid systems. Common mechanical engineering careers in this
field can be found in automation, robotics, and computer engineering. Structural
analysis involves understanding failure and breakdown processes. Thermodynamics
is the study of energy, and a mechanical engineer in this field studies energy
conversion and processes. Drafting is a form of technical drawing, and this may
be computer-aided or hand drawn.
Enrolling in
Mechanical
Engineering
College
Mechanical engineering
college requires a strong knowledge and background in mathematics, physics,
chemistry, and even economics. Many mechanical engineering degree programs are
segmented into two major areas within the department. One may focus on the
fluid/thermal area where math, controls, economics, and lab courses are the key
areas of study. The other may be the structure/motion area where physics, math,
and controls are the primary area of study. Engineering itself is a cumulative
degree program, and mechanical engineering specializes in the electrical and
mechanical processes behind a variety of industries.
Mechanical engineering
college provides training and curriculum in the areas of:
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Kinematics and dynamics of
machines
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Machine analysis and
design
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Design of mechanical
components
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Design of mechanical
engineering systems
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Structures and motion
studies
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Momentum, heat transfer,
and energy transport
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Nuclear and industrial
engineering
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Cost estimation
Students interested in a
mechanical engineering career need to have strong skills in advance mathematics,
physics, and economics. They need to think and analyze with systems-thinking,
and will need to develop strong communication and technical writings skills
throughout their careers.
A successful mechanical
engineering career begins with fundamental training followed by specialization.
A mechanical engineering college can provide the basic training and knowledge
required for lifelong studies in the field; many graduates of two and four-year
programs choose to pursue research and related disciplines. An alternative to
attending a campus-based mechanical engineering college is to complete a
mechanical engineering degree online.
Mechanical
Engineering
College
and Degree Accreditation
Mechanical engineering
degree programs at colleges and universities are accredited by the Accreditation
Board for Education and Technology (ABET). This organization is also responsible
for monitoring and certifying various mechanical engineering education programs
and specializations. A mechanical engineering degree online program is also
accredited by the same organization.
Earning a Mechanical
Engineering Degree Online
Earning
a mechanical engineering degree online is a valuable way for students who are
interested in pursuing their degree from a distance. A mechanical engineering
college may offer an online format for students who require flexibility in their
schedule, or for those who simply cannot attend a campus in their local area. A
mechanical engineering degree online may also serve as a supplement to another
degree in the engineering field, or help students further their education if
they are interested in research or post-graduate studies.
Future Employment Prospects
and Earning Potential for Mechanical Engineering Careers
The
rapid advancement of technology and mechanical engineering fields allows those
with a mechanical engineering degree to pursue a variety of disciplines.
Employment prospects for mechanical engineering careers look promising, and a
qualified mechanical engineer is projected to have an average rate of employment
growth through 2014. Emerging technologies in materials science, nanotechnology,
and biotechnology will create new opportunities for a skilled mechanical
engineer. Research and advancement offer even more flexibility for a successful
mechanical engineering career in the long term.
The
average salary for a mechanical engineer with a bachelor's degree was $50,236 in
2005, and $59,880 for those with a master's degree.
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