At its essence, engineering is problem-solving. A special kind of problem-solving.
Engineering applies mathematical and scientific principles with creativity and critical thinking to arrive at the best solution to a technical problem — from designing a spring to building a suspension bridge.
If you love to use logic and reason to improve and invent, and to solve problems, a career in engineering could be for you.
As an engineer, your work can make a positive difference to people across fields such as medicine and healthcare, transport and construction, power generation, renewable energy, environmental science, and more. Engineers are in high demand everywhere, in every country around the world.
Engineering at degree level develops your logical thinking, objectivity and decision-making abilities, giving you skills you can apply to many different careers.
What engineering degrees to choose
In engineering, there are many different branches in which you can specialise. These branches include civil engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering and mechanical engineering, and open up many career pathways and options.
Some specialised engineering careers — for example, a chemical process engineer or a biomedical engineer — might need you to study for a postgraduate degree, such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a PhD.
As you begin to consider engineering-related degree courses, to think about the subjects you enjoy, and the kind of career that interests you. Take time to explore your options, and how you might impact the world with engineering.
the world of study
Careers
Electrical engineering
electrical engineering
Careers
Electrical engineers design, test, maintain and improve devices that use or produce electricity, from microchips and nanotechnologies to megastructures like power stations and space satellites.
electrical engineering
Roles
Some of these roles listed above might need you to take a specialised electrical engineering degree, or require you to study a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a PhD.
Careers
Chemical engineering
chemical engineering
Careers
Chemical engineers design and manage systems to turn chemicals into products such as clothes, food, pharmaceuticals, fuels and energy. Chemical engineers are also concerned with protecting the environment and managing resources more effectively.
chemical engineering
Roles
Some of these roles listed above may need a specialised chemical engineering degree, or require you to study a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a PhD.
Careers
Civil engineering
civil engineering
Careers
Civil engineers design and manage construction projects, from public buildings and bridges to transportation links and airports. Civil engineers might also specialise in designing eco-friendly structures to combat climate change and reduce environmental impact.
civil engineering
Roles
A civil engineering degree may also be useful for roles such as:
Some of these roles may require a specialised civil engineering degree, or a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a PhD.
Careers
Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering
Careers
Mechanical engineers use scientific principles to solve problems and turn ideas into working technical products, from electrical devices and mining drills to suspension bridges and aircraft.
Mechanical engineering
Roles
A mechanical engineering degree may also be useful for roles such as:
Some of these roles may require a specialised mechanical engineering degree, or a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a PhD.
