Guide Note

Mechanical Engineering is one of several recognized fields of engineering. A mechanical engineer designs, tests, builds and operates machinery of all types. Mechanics, thermodynamics, kinematics, fluid mechanics, strength of materials, electronics, metallurgy, hydraulics, and energy are all things mechanical engineers must learn. Mechanical engineers use their skills to design the manufacturing, installation and operation processes of engines and machines. Mechanical engineering positively impacts the functionality, efficiency and usefulness of the design of objects.

Fast Facts

1. Sub Disciplines: Mechanics, Kinematics, Thermodynamics and Thermo-science, Structural Analysis, Mechatronics and Robotics, Drafting
2. The first British professional society of mechanical engineers formed in 1847
3. The first United States mechanical engineering professional society formed in 1880
4. Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor in Engineering (BE), Bachelor of Technology (BTech)
5. Coursework: Statics, Dynamics, Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Mechatronics, CAD, CAM, Fluid Dynamics, Heat Transfer
6. Salary: $50,236 to $72,500
7. Average salary of a mechanical engineer is approximately $18.07/hour

In ancient Greece there were talented mechanical engineers such as Archimedes and Heron of Alexandria. Zhang Heng and Ma Jun were some notable mechanical engineers of ancient China.

The Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering is offered in many universities internationally. Some mechanical engineers continue to pursue a postgraduate degree like Master of Science and Master of Engineering. Master's and Engineer's degrees may consist of coursework, research or both. After being awarded a degree, mechanical engineers may seek a license from a state or a national institution.