Types of Engineering: Comprehensive Guide

Engineering is one of the most varied and dynamic fields. As per IBIS World, the industry generated around $ 1.9 trillion in the second quarter of 2024. This highlights the global impact of engineering on economic development and innovation across sectors.  There are various types of engineering fields that contribute to solving some of the most pressing global problems.

Engineers are the front-runners in innovation and problem-solving, whether building sustainable infrastructure or developing new technologies. So, we’ve put together this guide to provide a broad overview of what you might expect when you study abroad in any engineering discipline - including future job responsibilities, the outlook for future growth, and salary expectations for potential career pathways.

Whether you're considering a career in engineering or looking to advance your current engineering career, this guide is tailored to help you make informed decisions. 

Types of Engineering and their Salaries at Glance

If you are wondering how many types of engineering fields are available, here is a list of top engineering professions with their respective salaries across the globe:

Engineering Field	Average Annual Salary in the US	Average Annual Salary in the UK	Average Annual Salary in India
Mechanical Engineer	$69,148 (INR 58.05 lakh)	£33,737 (INR 35.99 lakh)	₹4,40,505
Chemical Engineer	$72,425 (INR 60.80 lakh)	£34,475 (INR 36.78 lakh)	₹4,85,320
Software Engineer	$77,770 (INR 65.28 lakh)	£40,330 (INR 43.02 lakh)	₹7,02,818
Civil Engineer	$63,403 (INR 53.22 lakh)	£33,475 (INR 35.71 lakh)	₹3,51,442
Electrical Engineer	$1,42,310 (INR 1.19 crore)	£39,859 (INR 42.52 lakh)	₹4,23,011
Computer/Hardware Engineer	$76,707 (INR 64.39 lakh)	£41,438 (INR 44.21 lakh)	₹5,98,520
Marine Engineer	$86,167 (INR 72.33 lakh)	£34,712 (INR 37.03 lakh)	₹9,94,421
Automotive Engineer	$1,32,716 (INR 1.11 crore)	£36,860 (INR 39.32 lakh)	₹6,91,320
Mechanical Engineer	$69,148 (INR 58.05 lakh)	£33,737 (INR 35.99 lakh)	₹4,40,505

Source: Payscale as of August 2024

What is Engineering

Engineering is the application of scientific principles and mathematical methods to innovate, design, develop, and maintain structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes. It involves problem-solving and critical thinking to create solutions that meet specific needs or improve existing technologies. 

There are different types of engineering courses, each focusing on unique aspects of technology and society and playing a crucial role in advancing industries, enhancing quality of life, and addressing global challenges.

Who is an Engineer

An engineer is a professional who applies scientific and mathematical principles to design, develop, and improve structures, machines, systems, and processes. Engineers work in various industries, including construction, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, utilizing their expertise to solve complex problems and enhance quality of life.

What are Primary Types of Engineering 

Civil Engineering

Civil engineering involves the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings, essential for societal development and functioning.

Subfields of Civil Engineering

• Structural Engineering: Focuses on designing and analyzing structures to ensure they can withstand various loads and forces.
• Geotechnical Engineering: Deals with the behavior of earth materials and the application of soil and rock mechanics.
• Environmental Engineering: Concentrates on improving and protecting the environment through sustainable design and waste management.
• Transportation Engineering: Involves the planning, designing, and operating transportation systems like highways, railways, and airports.
• Water Resources Engineering: Manages and designs systems for water supply, drainage, and flood control.
• Construction Engineering: Focuses on the planning and management of construction projects.
• Urban Engineering: Deals with the infrastructure and services in urban areas, including water supply, waste management, and transportation systems.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Civil Engineer

To become a licensed civil engineer, earn a bachelor's degree, gain work experience, pass the FE and PE(Professional Engineering Exams), and complete approximately four years of relevant work experience.

Job Outlook and Salary: 

The median annual wage for civil engineers was $95,890 in 2023, as per the BLS. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering involves the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism, crucial for developing electrical systems and devices.

Subfields of Electrical Engineering

• Power Engineering: Focuses on the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity.
• Control Engineering: Deals with designing systems to control processes and machines.
• Electronics Engineering: Involves the design and development of electronic circuits, devices, and systems.
• Telecommunications Engineering: Focuses on communication systems, including the transmission of information via cables and wireless networks.
• Instrumentation Engineering: This deals with the design and development of instruments used to measure and control physical quantities.
• Microelectronics: Focuses on the design and fabrication of small electronic components like microchips.

Required Education:

A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field, as well as licensure as a professional engineer (PE), may be required.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Electrical Engineer

To become a licensed professional electrical engineer, obtain a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, gain practical experience through internships, pass the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering exam), acquire 4 years of relevant work experience, and pass the PE exam.

Job Outlook and Salary:

The median annual wage reported by BLS for electrical engineers is $109,100. Employment is projected to grow by 5%  by 2032, faster than the average.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering involves the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, playing a critical role in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and energy.

Subfields of Mechanical Engineering

• Thermal Engineering: Focuses on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and energy conversion.
• Fluid Mechanics: Studies the behavior of fluids and their interaction with solid boundaries.
• Manufacturing Engineering: Involves the design and optimization of manufacturing processes.
• Mechanics: Deals with the behavior of physical bodies when subjected to forces or displacements.
• Robotics: Focuses on the design and creation of robots and automated systems.
• Automotive Engineering: Involves the design and manufacturing of vehicles and their systems.

Required Education:

A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, as well as licensure as a professional engineer (PE), may be required.

Difficulty Level - 9/10

How to Become Mechanical Engineer

To become a licensed mechanical engineer, earn a bachelor's degree, complete internships, pass the FE exam, gain 4 years of work experience, and pass the PE exam.

Job Outlook and Salary

As per BLS data, the median annual wage for mechanical engineers is $99,510. Employment is projected to grow by 10% by 2032, much faster than the average.

Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering involves the application of chemical processes to develop and manufacture products, contributing significantly to various industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, and materials.

Subfields of Chemical Engineering

Process Engineering: Focuses on designing, optimizing, and operating chemical processes for large-scale manufacturing.

Biochemical Engineering: Applies chemical engineering principles to biological processes and products.

Materials Engineering: Involves the development of new materials with unique properties.

Environmental Engineering: Addresses the treatment of chemical waste and pollution control.

Nanotechnology: Deals with the manipulation of materials on an atomic or molecular scale.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in chemical engineering is required; advanced degrees may be needed for research positions.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Chemical Engineer

Earn a bachelor's in chemical engineering, gain experience through internships, consider a PE license, and pursue advanced education for higher roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for chemical engineers is $1,12,100, as per BLS data. Employment is projected to grow 8% by 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace Engineering involves the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment, playing a crucial role in advancing technology in aviation and space exploration.

Subfields of Aerospace Engineering

• Aerodynamics: Studies the behavior of air and its interaction with solid objects.
• Propulsion: Focuses on the development and maintenance of engines and propulsion systems.
• Avionics: Involves the electronic systems used in aviation, such as navigation and communication.
• Structural Analysis: Ensures that aerospace structures can withstand various forces and stresses.
• Systems Engineering: Integrates different engineering disciplines for complex aerospace projects.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field is required; advanced degrees are beneficial for specialized positions.

Difficulty Level - 9/10

How to Become Aerospace Engineer

Earn a bachelor's in aerospace engineering, gain experience through internships, obtain a PE license if needed, and consider advanced degrees for research roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for aerospace engineers is $1,30,720, according to BLS. Employment is projected to grow 6% by 2032, faster than the average.

Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering integrates electrical engineering and computer science to develop computer hardware and software, essential for modern technology and innovation.

Subfields of Computer Engineering

• Hardware Engineering: Focuses on the design and development of physical components.
• Software Engineering: Involves creating software applications and systems.
• Network Engineering: Deals with the design and management of network systems.
• Cybersecurity: Protects computer systems and networks from cyber threats.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Develops algorithms and systems that mimic human intelligence.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related field is required; advanced degrees may be needed for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Computer Engineer

Obtain a computer engineering bachelor’s degree, gain practical experience, consider relevant certifications, and pursue higher education for specialized roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for computer engineers is $138,080, as per BLS. Employment is projected to grow by 5% by 2032, faster than average.

Environmental Engineering

Environmental Engineering applies engineering principles to improve and protect the environment, addressing issues such as pollution, waste management, and sustainable development.

Subfields of Environmental Engineering

Water Resources Engineering: Manages water quality and distribution systems.

Waste Management: Focuses on the treatment and disposal of waste materials.

Air Quality Engineering: Controls air pollution and improves air quality.

Sustainable Engineering: Develops technologies and practices for sustainability.

Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluate the potential environmental impacts of projects.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field is required; advanced degrees are advantageous for research roles.

Difficulty Level - 6/10

How to Become Environmental Engineer

Earn a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering, gain experience, get a PE license if needed, and consider a master's for advanced roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for environmental engineers is $100,090, as reported by BLS. Employment is projected to grow 6% by 2032, faster than the average.

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering applies engineering principles to healthcare and biology, creating technologies and devices to improve medical care and patient outcomes.

Subfields of Biomedical Engineering

Medical Imaging: Develops technologies for imaging the human body.

Biomechanics: Studies the mechanics of the human body.

Biomaterials: Develop materials for medical implants and devices.

Clinical Engineering: Manages medical equipment in healthcare settings.

Rehabilitation Engineering: Creates devices to assist individuals with disabilities.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering is required; advanced degrees are beneficial for research and development roles.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Biomedical Engineer

Earn a biomedical engineering degree, gain practical experience, consider certifications, and pursue advanced education for research roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for biomedical engineers per BLS data is $100,730. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032, faster than the average.

Industrial Engineering

Industrial Engineering focuses on optimizing complex processes and systems to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality in manufacturing and services.

Subfields of Industrial Engineering

• Operations Research: Uses mathematical models to optimize processes.
• Manufacturing Engineering: Improves manufacturing processes and systems.
• Quality Engineering: Ensures products and processes meet quality standards.
• Ergonomics: Designs systems and products to fit human use.
• Supply Chain Management: Manages the flow of goods and services.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in industrial engineering is required; advanced degrees are beneficial for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Industrial Engineer

Earn a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, gain experience, obtain a PE license if needed, and pursue a master's for advanced roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for industrial engineers, as per the latest BLS data, is $99,380. Employment is projected to grow 12% by 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Automotive Engineering

Automotive Engineering involves the design, development, and manufacturing of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, contributing significantly to the transportation industry.

Subfields of Automotive Engineering

• Vehicle Dynamics: Studies the behavior of vehicles in motion.
• Powertrain Engineering: Focuses on the development of engines and transmissions.
• Chassis Engineering: Designs the frame and suspension systems.
• Electrical Engineering: Develops the electrical systems within vehicles.
• Safety Engineering: Ensures vehicles meet safety standards.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in automotive engineering or a related field is required; advanced degrees are beneficial for research roles.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Automotive Engineer

Earn a bachelor's in automotive engineering, gain practical experience, consider specialized certifications, and pursue higher education for advanced roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for automotive engineers was $99,510, as per BLS data. Employment is projected to grow 10% by 2032, faster than the average.

Marine Engineering

Marine Engineering involves the design, construction, and maintenance of ships, submarines, and other marine vessels and structures, crucial for maritime operations and transportation.

Subfields of Marine Engineering

• Naval Architecture: Designs the structure and stability of marine vessels.
• Offshore Engineering: Focuses on structures used in offshore environments.
• Marine Systems Engineering: Manages the mechanical and electrical systems on ships.
• Hydrodynamics: Studies the movement of water and its effects on vessels.
• Marine Propulsion: Develops propulsion systems for marine vessels.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a related field is required; advanced degrees are beneficial for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Marine Engineer

Earn a bachelor's degree in marine engineering, gain experience, obtain a PE license if needed, and pursue a master's degree for advanced roles

Job Outlook and Salary

According to BLS data, the median annual wage for marine engineers was $100,270. Employment is projected to grow 1% by 2032, showing minimal change in the job market.

Agricultural Engineering

Agricultural engineering involves the application of engineering principles to agriculture to improve processes and systems for better productivity and sustainability.

Subfields of Agricultural Engineering

• Farm Machinery and Power: Design and develop machinery for efficient agricultural operations.
• Soil and Water Engineering: Management and conservation of soil and water resources.
• Irrigation Engineering: Design and implement irrigation systems to optimize water use in agriculture.
• Food Processing Engineering: Development of equipment and processes for transforming raw agricultural products into consumable food.
• Agricultural Structures: Design of buildings and structures for housing livestock and storing crops.
• Renewable Energy: Utilizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power in agricultural practices.
• Environmental Engineering: Mitigating environmental impact through sustainable agricultural practices.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in agricultural engineering or related field; advanced degrees may be required for research positions.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Agricultural Engineer

Obtain a relevant bachelor's degree, gain experience through internships, and consider earning a professional engineering (PE) license for career advancement.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for agricultural engineers is $88,750, as per the latest BLS data. Employment is projected to grow 6% by 2032.

Geotechnical Engineering

Geotechnical engineering focuses on the behavior of earth materials and the application of soil and rock mechanics in construction.

Subfields of Geotechnical Engineering

• Soil Mechanics: Study of soil properties and behavior under different conditions.
• Rock Mechanics: Analysis and design of structures in rock environments.
• Foundation Engineering: Design of building foundations to ensure stability and safety.
• Slope Stability: Assessment and prevention of landslides and slope failures.
• Seepage Analysis: Management of water flow through soils to prevent erosion and structural damage.
• Earthquake Engineering: Designing structures to withstand seismic activities.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a focus on geotechnical engineering; a master's degree may be beneficial.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Geotechnical Engineer

Earn a degree in civil engineering, gain field experience, and pursue licensure as a professional engineer (PE).

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for geotechnical engineers is $79,686, according to Indeed. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032.

Materials Engineering

Materials engineering involves the study and development of new materials to improve performance and efficiency in various applications.

Subfields of Materials Engineering

• Metallurgy: Study of metals and their properties for industrial applications.
• Polymers: Development and application of synthetic materials like plastics and rubber.
• Ceramics: Engineering of non-metallic, inorganic materials for high-temperature applications.
• Composites: Design and use materials made from two or more constituent materials with different properties.
• Nanomaterials: Research and development of materials at the nanoscale for advanced technologies.
• Biomaterials: Creation of materials for medical applications like implants and prosthetics.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in materials science or engineering; advanced degrees for research positions.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Materials Engineer

Obtain a relevant bachelor's degree, gain practical experience, and consider further specialization through graduate studies.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for materials engineers is $104,100, as per the BLS data. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032, faster than the average.

Electronic Engineering

Electronic engineering focuses on the design and development of electronic systems and devices.

Subfields of Electronic Engineering

• Microelectronics: Design of small electronic components like integrated circuits.
• Telecommunications: Development of communication systems like phones and the Internet.
• Signal Processing: Analysis and manipulation of signals for improved transmission and reception.
• Control Systems: Design of systems for managing and controlling machinery and processes.
• Embedded Systems: Integration of software and hardware for specialized computing systems.
• Power Electronics: Development of electronic devices that convert and control electrical power.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in electronic engineering or a related field.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Electronic Engineer

Earn a relevant bachelor's degree, complete internships for practical experience, and consider obtaining certification from professional bodies.

Job Outlook and Salary

As per BLS, the median annual wage for electronic engineers is $109,010. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032.

Structural Engineering

Structural engineering focuses on the design and analysis of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe and stable.

Subfields of Structural Engineering

• Bridge Engineering: Analysis and design of bridges for durability and safety.
• Offshore Structure Engineering: Development of structures in marine environments like oil rigs.
• Earthquake Engineering: Designing structures to withstand seismic activities.
• Wind Engineering: Analysis of wind effects on structures to prevent damage.
• Forensic Engineering: Investigation of structural failures to determine causes and prevent future incidents.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a focus on structural engineering; advanced degrees for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Structural Engineer

Earn a civil engineering degree, gain practical experience, and pursue licensure as a professional engineer (PE).

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for structural engineers is $77,878 in 2024, as per Payscale. Employment is projected to grow 5% by 2032, faster than the average.

Manufacturing Engineering

 Manufacturing engineering involves the design and improvement of manufacturing processes for efficient production.

Subfields of Manufacturing Engineering

• Process Engineering: Optimization of manufacturing processes for efficiency and quality.
• Quality Control: Ensuring products meet quality standards through testing and inspection.
• Industrial Automation: Implementation of automated systems to enhance productivity.
• Supply Chain Management: Overseeing the flow of materials and products through the manufacturing process.
• Lean Manufacturing: Techniques to minimize waste and improve efficiency.
• Sustainable Manufacturing: Development of environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.

Required Education

Master's degree in manufacturing engineering or related field.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Manufacturing Engineer

Obtain a relevant bachelor's and master’s degree, gain experience through internships, and consider certification in specialized areas.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for manufacturing engineers is $76,950 in 2024. Employment is projected to grow 12% by 2032.

Software Engineering

Software engineering involves the design, development, and maintenance of software systems.

Subfields of Software Engineering

• System Software: Development of operating systems and system software.
• Application Software: Design of software applications for end-users.
• Web Development: Creation of websites and web applications.
• Mobile Development: Development of applications for mobile devices.
• Embedded Systems: Integration of software in hardware devices for specialized functions.
• Cybersecurity: Ensuring the security and integrity of software systems.

Required Education

Bachelor's and master’s degrees in software engineering or computer science.

Difficulty Level - 6/10

How to Become Software Engineer

Earn a relevant bachelor's degree, gain internship experience, and continuously update skills with new technologies.

Job Outlook and Salary

According to BLS, the median annual wage for software engineers is $130,160 in 2024. Employment is projected to grow 25% by  2032.

Textile Engineering

Textile engineering involves the design and development of textile materials and processes.

Subfields of Textile Engineering

• Fiber Engineering: Development of new and improved textile fibers.
• Fabric Engineering: Design and production of fabrics with specific properties.
• Textile Processing: Optimization of processes for dyeing, finishing, and treating textiles.
• Apparel Engineering: Design and production of clothing and apparel.
• Technical Textiles: Development of textiles for industrial and non-clothing applications.
• Sustainable Textiles: Creating environmentally friendly textile materials and processes.

Required Education

Bachelor's or master’s degree in textile engineering or related field.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Textile Engineer

Obtain a relevant bachelor's or master’s degree, gain experience in the textile industry, and consider specialization in areas like sustainable textiles.

Job Outlook and Salary

As per Payscale data, the median annual wage for textile engineers is $78,000 in 2024. Employment is projected to remain unchanged.

Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineering involves the application of engineering principles to building design and construction.

Subfields of Architectural Engineering

• Building Systems Engineering: Design of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in buildings.
• Structural Engineering: Ensuring the structural integrity of buildings.
• Construction Management: Overseeing construction projects to ensure timely and budget-compliant completion.
• Sustainable Design: Creating energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.
• Lighting Design: Development of lighting systems for aesthetic and functional purposes.
• Acoustical Engineering: Design of sound control and acoustic environments within buildings.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in architectural engineering or related field.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Architectural Engineer

Earn a relevant bachelor's degree, gain practical experience through internships, and pursue licensure as a professional engineer (PE).

Job Outlook and Salary

As per BLS, the median annual wage for architectural engineers is $165,370. Employment is projected to grow 4% by 2032, as fast as average.

Power Engineering

Power engineering involves the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, ensuring efficient and reliable power supply critical to modern society.

Subfields of Power Engineering

• Generation Engineering: Focuses on producing electrical power from various sources like fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable energy.
• Transmission Engineering: Deals with high-voltage transfer of electricity from power plants to substations.
• Distribution Engineering: Involves delivering electricity from substations to consumers.
• Power Systems Engineering: Analyzes and optimizes the overall power grid for reliability and efficiency.
• Power Electronics: Concerned with converting and controlling electric power using electronic devices.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; advanced degrees for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 7/10

How to Become Power Engineer

Earn a bachelor’s in electrical engineering, gain practical experience, obtain a PE license for advanced roles, and consider a master’s for specialization or research.

Job Outlook and Salary

According to BLS, the median annual wage for power engineers is $109,010 in 2024. Employment is projected to grow 5% by  2032.

Petroleum Engineering

Petroleum engineering focuses on the extraction, production, and management of oil and natural gas resources, essential for global energy needs.

Subfields of Petroleum Engineering

• Drilling Engineering: Design and implementation of drilling plans to extract oil and gas.
• Production Engineering: Manages the interface between the reservoir and the well, including equipment and techniques to optimize production.
• Reservoir Engineering: Analyzes and predicts the behavior of oil and gas reservoirs to maximize recovery.
• Petrophysical Engineering: Studies the physical and chemical properties of reservoir rocks and fluids.
• Completion Engineering: Involves the process of making a drilled well ready for production.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related field; advanced degrees for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 8/10

How to Become Petroleum Engineer

To pursue a career in petroleum engineering, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree, gain field experience, consider a PE license, and potentially pursue a master's degree for advanced roles.

Job Outlook and Salary

According to BLS, the median annual wage for petroleum engineers is $135,690  and employment is projected to grow 2% by 2032.

Nuclear Engineering

Nuclear engineering involves the application of nuclear processes and principles for energy production, medical treatments, and various industrial applications, contributing to energy security and technological advancements.

Subfields of Nuclear Engineering

• Reactor Engineering: Focuses on the design, construction, and operation of nuclear reactors.
• Radiation Protection: Ensures the safe use of radiation and radioactive materials.
• Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Manages the production, use, and disposal of nuclear fuel.
• Nuclear Medicine: Applies nuclear technology for diagnostic and therapeutic medical procedures.
• Nuclear Safety: Studies and implements measures to prevent nuclear accidents and manage risks.

Required Education

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related field; advanced degrees for specialized roles.

Difficulty Level - 9/10

How to Become Nuclear Engineer

Earn a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, gain practical experience, obtain a PE license for advanced roles, and consider a master's degree for specialization.

Job Outlook and Salary

The median annual wage for nuclear engineers is $125,460, according to BLS. Employment is projected to show little change by 2032.

What are Other Emerging Engineering Fields

Biomedical Engineering

• Overview: Biomedical engineering is the integration of engineering principles with biological sciences to advance healthcare. This field focuses on developing innovative solutions to medical challenges.
• Applications: Development of medical devices like pacemakers and MRI machines, prosthetics, biocompatible materials, and advanced imaging technologies.
• Job Outlook and Salary: The median annual wage for biomedical engineers is $100,730. Employment is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Robotic Engineering

• Overview: Robotics engineering involves designing, building, and operating robots. This field combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and other disciplines to create robots that can perform tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously.
• Applications: Robotics engineers work on industrial robots for manufacturing, medical robots for surgeries, robotic exoskeletons for rehabilitation, and service robots for various industries.
• Job Outlook and Salary: The median annual wage for robotic engineers is $99,510. Employment is projected to grow 10% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average.

Cybersecurity Engineering

• Overview: Cybersecurity engineering focuses on protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber-attacks. This field combines principles of computer science and engineering to develop secure systems.
• Applications: Cybersecurity engineers work on designing secure software, managing encryption protocols, conducting security audits, and developing strategies to combat cyber threats.
• Job Outlook and Salary: The median annual wage for civil engineers is $120,360. Employment is projected to grow 32% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Which Type of Engineering is Best

Choosing the best type of engineering for you depends on your individual interests, skills, and career goals. Fields like computer engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering offer diverse opportunities and high earning potential. However, emerging fields such as biomedical engineering, robotics engineering, and data science also present exciting prospects due to technological advancements and societal needs.

How Do I Choose Right Engineering Field for Me

• Assess Your Interests and Strengths: Reflect on subjects and activities you enjoy. Are you fascinated by how things work (mechanical engineering), intrigued by technology and computing (computer engineering), or passionate about solving environmental problems (environmental engineering)?
• Research Various Fields: Learn about different engineering disciplines, their applications, and career prospects. Talk to professionals, attend career fairs, and participate in internships to gain insight.
• Consider Job Market Trends: Look at the current and projected demand for different engineering fields. Fields with high growth potential may offer more opportunities.
• Evaluate Education and Skill Requirements: Some fields may require specialized education or skills. Ensure you are prepared to meet these requirements.
• Think About Work Environment: Consider whether you prefer hands-on work, research, design, or fieldwork. Different engineering fields offer varying work environments.

Conclusion

Choosing an engineering field is a significant decision that can shape your career path. Evaluate your interests, research various fields, and consider future trends to make an informed choice. Remember, the field of engineering is dynamic, with continuous advancements creating new opportunities. 

For more guidance on pursuing an engineering degree abroad, explore the options at upGrad Abroad. With upGrad Abroad, you can explore the different types of Engineering pathways available, how to pursue them, and how you benefit from pursuing each pathway.