Engineering encompasses a wide range of disciplines that influence nearly every aspect of modern life. From developing new technologies to addressing environmental challenges, various engineering fields offer specialized focus areas for different interests and career goals. Understanding these engineering fields can help you choose the right path within this versatile profession.
While there are many different ways to organize the various engineering disciplines, according to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), there are twelve types of board engineering categories1:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Bioengineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Electric Power/Energy Systems Engineering
- Electronics, Communication, and Information Systems Engineering
- Industrial, Manufacturing, and Operational Systems Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Earth Resources Engineering
- Special Fields and Interdisciplinary Engineering
1: Categories from the National Academy of Engineering, accessed December 2024
Master of Engineering vs Master of Science
Engineering Careers
There is no doubt that engineering continues to be a growing field with excellent job diversity, job placement prospects, and salary outcomes. To become an engineer you need a degree in engineering that will provide you with a broad background in math, science, and technology, as engineers use these skills to solve problems on a daily basis. Learn more about the various fields of engineering, engineering salaries, job outlooks, degree options, and what Michigan Technological University offers.
- Michigan Tech's Engineering Departments
- Michigan Tech Engineering Majors
- Michigan Tech's Engineering Department Chairs
Engineering Salaries
What is an engineering degree worth? Year after year, engineering jobs in the United States and abroad are paid the highest average starting salary. Compensation can vary widely based on factors such as the type of engineering field or type of degree. View our engineering salaries data for additional information.