Mechanical engineers are characterized by personal creativity, breadth of knowledge, and versatility. They are also valuable and reliable multidisciplinary team members. The technical subject areas that form the main basis for their work include mechanics, energy transfer and conversion, design and manufacturing, and the engineering sciences. A good understanding of English and mathematics is also crucial to this kind of profession.

Is Mechanical Engineering the right major for you?
Take the MyMajors Quiz and find out if it is one of your top recommended majors!

The required and elective courses you would take for Mechanical Engineering majors vary considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience were you to major in this field.

• Principles of Design
• Calculus Based Physics
• Chemistry
• Circuits and Electronics
• Differential Equations
• Dynamics
• Electrical Energy Conversion
• Elements of Mechanical Design
• Graphic Communication
• Mechanics of Materials
• Principles of Engineering
• Therodynamics

• Materials Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Mining and Mineral Engineering
• Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering

Various specializations related to a major in Mechanical Engineering may be offered by colleges and universities. These specializations may be of greater or lesser interest to you. A few of these specializations related to this field include, but are not limited to:

• Materials Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Mining and Mineral Engineering
• Mining and Mineral Engineering
• Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
• Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering
• Nuclear Engineering