35 Different Types of Engineering Degrees

Engineering is a broad term that covers a wide range of applications and industries. Combining
mathematics, science and technology, engineers produce creative solutions to real world problems. As a
result there are many different types of engineering degrees available.
In the past, engineering could be divided into four major branches: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil and
Electrical, with sub branches of each discipline. Today however, the number of engineering degrees
available have increased dramatically. There are now six major branches of engineering: Mechanical,
Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Management, and Geotechnical, and literally hundreds of different
subcategories of engineering under each branch.

Available Types of Engineering Degrees

Below are the most popular types of engineering degrees sorted by branch of engineering.

Types of Mechanical Engineering Degrees

Mechanical Engineering Degree

A Mechanical Engineering Degree involves the design of mechanical systems. These

systems assist industries such as: manufacturing, aeronautics, nanotechnology, nuclear power
production, heating and cooling. A primary focus is on thermodynamics, structural analysis, materials
science, and kinematics. This is arguably the broadest of all engineering degrees available today and
takes in a wide range of engineering disciplines.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW MECHANICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Aerospace Engineering Degree

An Aerospace Engineering Degree involves the study of air and space travel. This might
include military aircraft design and development, along with commercial airline design and satellite

technology. The terms Aerospace and Aeronautical are both often used interchangeably, yet there are key
differences between the two. Aeronautical Engineering relates to craft that remain in our atmosphere,
while Aerospace Engineering refers to aircraft that venture outside our atmosphere. Most programs in the
United States have changed their names from Aeronautical to Aerospace over the past couple decades,
but there are still some programs that go by the historical name.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW AEROSPACE ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Biomedical Engineering Degree

Biomedical engineering combines the study of medicine and biology. Biomedical

Engineers apply their design skills to biological and medical sciences. They do this to assist in
advancements in healthcare treatment technology. They develop and maintain diagnostic devices.
Devices that include EEGs, MRIs, and other imaging machines. Physicians use these machines to
diagnosis their patients medical problems. This is a fast moving industry and while challenging can be a
rewarding career path to take.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Biomechanical Engineering Degree

Biomechanical Engineering is the study of organisms and mechanics and how the two
solve problems in combination. This is a growing industry and practical applications include environmental
challenges such as waste control and keeping our waterways free from pollution. It shares close ties with
Biomedical Engineering and Agricultural Engineering, as you might expect.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW BIOMECHANICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Automotive Engineering Degree

As the name implies, automotive engineering involves the design and production of vehicles. The
automotive industry is hugely diverse and requires engineers to work in areas such as mechanical design,
performance, manufacturing, electrical engineering and systems management.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Types of Civil Engineering Degrees

Civil Engineering Degree

Civil Engineering involves the development of infrastructure such as buildings, railways,

roads construction, bridges and general construction project management. Civil Engineers also play an
important role in rebuilding projects, such as in the event of a natural disaster. Civil Engineers may
work in the private or public sector at any level. This is a very broad engineering degree. Environmental
Engineering, Structural Engineering and Marine Engineering are all specialties of Civil Engineering.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW CIVIL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Structural Engineering Degree

Structural engineering is a specific branch of civil engineering, and specializes in the design of different
structures, including houses, commercial buildings, art museums, stores, and more. It is important for
structural engineers to understand the construction of buildings and the effects of natural factors such as
erosion, corrosion, wind, and water to ensure buildings and structures are safe for a very long period of
time. At some universities, structural engineering is a concentration offered within a civil engineering
degree.
Available in: Associates, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.

MORE INFO VIEW STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Architectural Engineering Degree

Architectural engineers work in the construction, planning, and design phase of projects.
In conjunction with other team members, the focus is on building structure and interior design. This
includes: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Fire protection, Lighting, Plumbing and other
systems specific to the the project. In some areas natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes
have special consideration.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Types of Electrical Engineering Degrees

Electrical Engineering Degree

An Electrical Engineering Degree involves the study of energy. Energy is available in

various forms such as electrical, hydro and natural sources such as wind and solar energy. An Electrical
Engineer develops technologies to assist with the practical application of such energies. Electrical
Engineers design components for electronic equipment, communications systems, power grids,
automobiles, and more.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Computer Engineering Degree

Another industry that continues to expand is of course the Information Technology (IT)
industry. This involves both computer sciences and electrical engineering. Successful graduates may find
themselves in Telecommunications, Networking, Software Application Development, or Manufacturing.
This type of degree has good future potential as most industries rely on information technology.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW COMPUTER ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Electronics Engineering Degree

Technology and specifically, electronics, have changed the way most of the world lives every day. From
the revolutionary computer to the latest mobile phone technology that fits in your pocket, we all use
electronics every single day. Electronics engineers are needed to design and build electronic equipment.
Most electronics engineers work with circuits, switchboards, and other electronic configurations to design
and build these devices.
MORE INFO
Available in: Associates, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
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Robotics Engineering Degree

A robotics engineering degree has a primary focus on automation and the use of machines to assist with
repetitive tasks such as those found in manufacturing. Robotics engineers will typically design robotic
technology and develop maintenance systems to help achieve optimal efficiency. this is an area with
expected growth of up to 15% in the next five years.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW ROBOTICS ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Microelectronic Engineering Degree

If you have an interest in electronics a Microelectronic Engineering degree might be of interest.
Microelectronics is a subset of Electrical Engineering with a focus on the word Micro. Microelectronic

Engineers specialize in the development and design of small electrical devices. Used in a wide range of
industrial applications. As we move away from bulky electronic devices such as the first mobile phones
and desktop computers. We develop smaller more convenient electronic devices. As a result the demand
for microelectronic engineers is high. Microelectronic engineers also assist in the technical writing aspect
of a project. As well as perform tests to verify product conformance.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Types of Chemical Engineering Degrees

Chemical Engineering Degree

As the name implies, Chemical Engineering is the practical application of chemistry. This
type of engineering degree involves technology that utilizes chemical reactions to solve problems. A
chemical engineer creates new products, including: Cosmetics, foods, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and
cleaners from raw chemicals. this is a very broad engineering degree and allows for a number of different
forms of employment. It is also one of the most challenging degrees available.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW CHEMICAL/RELATED ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Environmental Engineering Degree

One of the most popular kinds of engineering degree. Environmental Engineering

involves the study of science and engineering to improve our environment. This includes the air we
breathe, food we consume, and water. Environmental Engineers also study the environmental impact
humans have on the planet, including pollution as a result of development and manufacturing processes.
Environmental Engineering is considered a subset of Civil Engineering.

Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.

MORE INFO VIEW ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Materials Science Engineering Degree

A Materials Science engineering degree is a study of materials and why they behave a specific way or
react to things in a certain way. This includes plastics, ceramics and polymers. Everything around us is
made up of materials, as we evolve there is an increasing demand for materials which are stronger, more
environmentally friendly and lighter. Employment opportunities include research positions along with
industry placements. Materials Science Engineering is a very hands on, practical degree and graduates
are in high demand.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW MATERIALS ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Agricultural Engineering Degree

An Agricultural engineering degree involves learning how to apply engineering to the agricultural industry
to assist with area of farming including: soil conservation and salinity, ground preparation, irrigation, farm
machinery design and production and helping develop more effective harvest techniques. Employment
generally involves working in a consulting capacity or employed in a related industry such as machinery
design and production.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Paper Engineering Degree

Paper Engineering is a specialization of chemical engineering and involves understanding the processes
involved (chemical and mechanical) of paper production. This type of degree involves both research
based work and practical assessment which is typically lab work. Students learn the principles behind
molecular science, wood pulping and fluid mechanics to name just a few.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Sustainability Design Degree

Sustainable engineering takes into account the three major areas of sustainability: environmental impact,
social and economic considerations. This includes not only the initial construction process but the
complete life cycle of the product being developed. Graduates may complete further post graduate study
or work in industries such as: Industrial waste water management, emission control and hazardous waste
management.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW SUSTAINABILITY ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Types of Engineering Management Degrees

Engineering Management Degree
An Engineering Management Degree combines engineering with business management training to arm
the successful graduate with the ability to manage engineering projects or manage a team of engineers. A
degree in engineering management limits the shortfall of engineers with limited business and
management skills or managers with limited engineering knowledge. This type of degree is expected to
rise in popularity over time.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT SCHOOLS

Industrial Engineering Degree

Industrial engineers work for manufacturing companies, or as consultants to the manufacturing industry.
The role of an Industrial engineer is to increase productivity and reduce waste and spending. Many new
start-ups will hire an Industrial engineer to help make their business more efficient. Industrial engineers
are also hired to test employee productivity and in house processes. Which will improve the efficiency of
the company.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Systems Engineering Degree

Systems engineering is a multi disciplined engineering degree. While it has has evolved over time as
systems have evolved with technology and greater efficiency its primary focus is on developing and
improving upon existing systems. Systems engineers develop systems for workplace efficiency, risk
management, measuring and refinement.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW SYSTEMS ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Manufacturing Engineering Degree

A Manufacturing Engineering degree focuses on manufacturing processes and machinery and quality
control systems. Manufacturing makes up over 20% of Americas GDP and over 15% of our employment.
As a result its important we refine our manufacturing processes for increased efficiency. This is a very
broad discipline and can overlap other types of engineering studies including robotics and systems
engineering. Students will study diverse areas of engineering such as: Material science, manufacturing
technology and automation (robotics) along with fluid mechanics and hydraulics.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Types of Geotechnical Engineering Degrees

Petroleum Engineering Degree

A petroleum engineer handles the extraction of oil and gas from beneath the earth. They
are also involved in developing new extraction methods and technologies including new methods that are
more efficient and less damaging to the environment. Petroleum Engineering is one of the highest paid
engineering positions available. Petroleum engineers play a significant role in locating reservoirs beneath
the earths surface for gas and oil companies.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Geological Engineering Degree

Geological engineers combine engineering and research skills for mining and construction projects.
Construction firms hire Geological engineers. They assess ground conditions and other natural hazards
(earthquakes, etc.) before starting construction. With declining natural resources available, Geological
engineers are in high demand. Geological Engineers work in the private sector or governmental agencies.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
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Nuclear Engineering Degree

Nuclear engineers are at the core of development for the ever growing use of nuclear power. The medical
field has become the largest beneficiary of many new developments. Nuclear engineers work for
consulting firms, power plants, and government agencies. As expected, the demand for nuclear engineers
in nuclear power plants is high. The design, implementation, and maintenance of the plant is one aspect
of their duties. Many Nuclear Engineers also move into supervision and management.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
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Marine Engineering Degree

A Marine engineer applies knowledge to the development of ocean technologies.

Technologies include fixed and floating structures, such as pontoons and jetties, propulsion and power
generation for boats, ships and other marine transportation, and developing new forms of energy that are
reliant on our oceans including wind farms.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
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Engineering Physics
An engineering physics degree combines engineering with physics and allows students to study the areas
where these two areas intersect. It is also a precursor to graduate studies in either physics or

engineering. Most graduates will work in research or another field of engineering such as mechanical
engineering or nuclear engineering. The demand for this type of graduate is particularly high.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
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Photonics Engineering Degree

Photons are a specific type of light. Photonics engineering concerns itself with the exploration of light. this
includes generation of light, processing of light signals, amplification of light and modulation. Industries
that utilise this kind of technology include Telecommunications (optical signal processing and
communication), Medical, Manufacturing, Aviation and computing to name just a few. Over the course of
the next decade opportunities for qualified Photonics Engineers is expected to increase significantly.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
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Nanotechnology Engineering
Nano essentially refers to a billionth e.g. one nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter or between 2 and 20
atoms in length. Nanotechnology is the study of extremely small elements such as molecules and single
atoms and the production of extremely small devices. Nanotechnology is expected to be as important to
us as the industrial revolution over time as it has the potential to help solve some of the worlds major
problems including health and environmental concerns. Nanotechnology is a very specialised discipline
that can be applied to a very broad range of industries and fields.
Available in: Certificate, Masters and Doctorate.
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Mining Engineering Degree

A mining Engineering degree involves studying the extraction of mined resources from the earth in a safe,
economical and environmentally responsible manner. Engineers are involved in the mining industry in
areas such as: machinery production and design, mine design, mine construction. Mining Engineers may
work closely with Geologists to discover the most effective extraction techniques and can be employed on
site or work remotely.

Available in: Masters and Doctorate.

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Ceramics Engineering Degree

As the name implies. Ceramics engineers develop products from ceramics (ceramics being non metal,
non organic materials that are generally produced by heating and cooling). Ceramics are often more
suitable than metals in many cases due to their heat and cool resistance and can often be found in
industries such as: medical, mining and electronics.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW CERAMICS ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Metallurgical Engineering Degree

A Metallurgical Engineering Degree involves the study of engineering principles to extract and in many
cases purify metals and other minerals from ore. Metallurgical Engineers develop and design processing
techniques and machinery and have to take into account the environmental impact of mineral processing.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
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Geomatics Engineering Degree

A Geomatics Engineering degree involves the study of precise measurement for mapping the earths
environment using advanced equipment and techniques. Geomatics Engineers play an important role in
planning future infrastructure and often work with large amounts of data to form digital replications of
terrain and develop 3D maps. This also includes the study of GPS technology. There is a shortage of
qualified Geomatics professionals and as a result they are in great demand.
Available in: Masters and Doctorate.
VIEW GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING SCHOOLS

Project Management Degree

Many engineers that wish to continue advancing in their corporation choose to pursue a project
management degree. Some engineers can become a project manager without a project management
degree, but a project management degree helps you learn PM principles to ensure all engineering
branches work together for the completion of typically large projects. Many engineers work with project
managers, but civil engineers, architectural engineers, and electrical engineers work with a project
manager for nearly every road/highway or building/construction project. Having the PM experience can
give you a more comprehensive vantage point from all engineering angles.
Available in: Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate.
MORE INFO VIEW PROJECT MANAGEMENT SCHOOLS

Online Engineering Degrees

An up-and-coming concept in the field of engineering academics is the online engineering degree, which
is available at at least one school in every branch of engineering. Although there are not exactly a
plethora of choices right now for some branches, more and more colleges and universities are adding
online engineering degrees at every level. The most common so far is an online Masters in Engineering.
Many engineers that have already earned their PE (Professional Engineer) license and are currently
employed opt for taking online engineering classes to get their Masters degree. Obviously there are
different specializations that cater more towards online engineering degrees, such as Engineering
Management, while others are more difficult to learn online.
Available in: Certificate, Bachelors, and Masters.

The list above represents the many different types of Engineering Degrees available. Some degrees will
overlap to some extent while some degrees are very specialized, and as a result, so is the education.

Top Engineering Degrees

Online
Aerospace
Agricultural
Architectural
Biomedical
Biomechanical

Civil
ConstructionEnvironmental
Industrial
Engineering MBA
Computer
Electrical
Electronics
Eng. Technology
Management
Mechanical
Mechatronics
Project Mgmt
Robotics
Software
Structural

Online Engineering Degree Programs

All Online Engineering Degrees
Online Computer Engineering Degree
Online Software Engineering Degree
Online Project Management Degree

Engineering Degree Levels

Associate's in Engineering
Bachelor's in Engineering
Master's in Engineering
MBA in Engineering
Doctorate in Engineering