According to a recent report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), college grads with a degree in mechanical engineering are on the top-ten list of highest salaries for the class of 2013. So, if you are interested in learning about the science and energy behind machines or in creating your own machines, mechanical engineering could be the perfect program for you!
Education
According to the College Board, mechanical engineering is offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To prepare for the major, consider taking courses like AP Calculus, computer science and AP Physics in high school. Some typical college courses for mechanical engineering majors are materials science, circuit analysis and mechanical design fundamentals.
What to know before you apply
Before you make a decision about a college or program, find out if the department offers a program that offers a bachelor’s degree or one that offers a combination of a bachelor’s and master’s degree. The difference in the workload could affect your success in the program. Also, you ask if the program requires a co-op or internship, since this can help you with your career after college. Finally, find out about the college’s lab technology. You will want the best lab possible if you are going to be spending four years working in it.
Salary
According to the NACE report, mechanical engineering majors from the class of 2013 earn an average starting salary of $63,900.
Also, this program often leads to careers like mechanical engineers, industrial engineers and engineering managers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanical engineers earn an average of $83,550 per year, while industrial engineers earn an average of $79,840. Engineering managers earn an average yearly salary of $129,350.
> For more information about choosing a career, visit NextStepU.com/Careers.
