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Why does mechanical engineer require a bachelor's Degree?
Which GED classes should I take?
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Rich’s Answer
The other answers do a good job explaining why mechanical engineering as a professional discipline requires a bachelors degree so I will address the second question, “which GED classes should I take”. Whether GED or regular high school, you will need to take higher level math including calculus, Trigonometry and Algebra 2 since all engineering majors require multiple higher level math classes that you will need this foundation for.
If you have concerns about pursuing a bachelors degree for whatever reason, another option would be to look into an engineering technician program offered at most 2-year community colleges. They tend to be more focused on hands on work, and would allow you to a) get a job in the field quicker and b) have an opportunity to learn more about the field to decide if you want to pursue a bachelors degree. There are a lot of job opportunities for engineering technicians and for many this is a good good starting point before deciding if they want to continue their education. Good luck.
If you have concerns about pursuing a bachelors degree for whatever reason, another option would be to look into an engineering technician program offered at most 2-year community colleges. They tend to be more focused on hands on work, and would allow you to a) get a job in the field quicker and b) have an opportunity to learn more about the field to decide if you want to pursue a bachelors degree. There are a lot of job opportunities for engineering technicians and for many this is a good good starting point before deciding if they want to continue their education. Good luck.
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Hi Nelson!
Great question. So in my experience, when a job requires a certain level or degree be obtained, it's usually because a certain level of education is required to do the job to the best of your ability. For mechanical engineering, I would definitely have classes in your general education that reflect that you would do a good job in your field. Lots of career specific math and science as well as critical thinking classes and even business writing.
Hope this helps and good luck with everything!
Christine
Great question. So in my experience, when a job requires a certain level or degree be obtained, it's usually because a certain level of education is required to do the job to the best of your ability. For mechanical engineering, I would definitely have classes in your general education that reflect that you would do a good job in your field. Lots of career specific math and science as well as critical thinking classes and even business writing.
Hope this helps and good luck with everything!
Christine
Updated
Kristy’s Answer
A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering is typically required for several reasons:
1.) Foundational knowledge: This degree will provide a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles, theories, and methods.
2.) Technical skills: In these programs you will be taught various technical skills, such as computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which are widely used in the industry.
3.) Accreditation: In many countries, it's a prerequisite for employment or licensure.
4.) Career Advancement: The degree can serve as a stepping stone for further education, such as a master's or doctorate degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, which can open doors for fields requiring specialized expertise.
5.) Networking opportunities: Attending university offers numerous opportunities for networking with fellow students, professors, and industry professionals, which can be invaluable for career development and future opportunities.
In summary, a bachelor's degree can be important because it provides you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and qualifications to work in the field of mechanical engineering and pursue career advancement opportunities.
1.) Foundational knowledge: This degree will provide a comprehensive education in the fundamental principles, theories, and methods.
2.) Technical skills: In these programs you will be taught various technical skills, such as computer-aided design (CAD), finite element analysis (FEA), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which are widely used in the industry.
3.) Accreditation: In many countries, it's a prerequisite for employment or licensure.
4.) Career Advancement: The degree can serve as a stepping stone for further education, such as a master's or doctorate degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, which can open doors for fields requiring specialized expertise.
5.) Networking opportunities: Attending university offers numerous opportunities for networking with fellow students, professors, and industry professionals, which can be invaluable for career development and future opportunities.
In summary, a bachelor's degree can be important because it provides you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and qualifications to work in the field of mechanical engineering and pursue career advancement opportunities.
Updated
Soumya’s Answer
A Bachelor's degree typically exposes you to the fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering.
The job of a Mechanical Engineer involves starting with computer aided designs to do initial prototyping and then ensure the components get manufactured. In these three phases, it would involve using your first principles (how things get assembled, how things function, can the design survive in the long run..)
Depending on the nature of some jobs, you sometimes would just be assigned to only one task (e.g., prototyping or testing) and would be entrusted with a multitude of responsibilities relevant to that. One way of getting those skills is to go through a structured Bachelors program and also work part-time/full-time through internships at companies to get the relevant experience. However, there are certain jobs in the market, which sometimes require an Associates Degree with 3-5 years experience, as well.
The job of a Mechanical Engineer involves starting with computer aided designs to do initial prototyping and then ensure the components get manufactured. In these three phases, it would involve using your first principles (how things get assembled, how things function, can the design survive in the long run..)
Depending on the nature of some jobs, you sometimes would just be assigned to only one task (e.g., prototyping or testing) and would be entrusted with a multitude of responsibilities relevant to that. One way of getting those skills is to go through a structured Bachelors program and also work part-time/full-time through internships at companies to get the relevant experience. However, there are certain jobs in the market, which sometimes require an Associates Degree with 3-5 years experience, as well.