The Format of Engineering Degree Courses
Basic issues addressed in a degree course in engineering normally include:
- Basic mathematics and science.
Only a small proportion of professional engineers make extensive use of mathematics. A basic grounding is however needed to work with mechanics. - The mechanics, fundamental theory, materials technology and design methods of the engineering area to be studied.
Electrical and electronic engineers are focused on electrical theory and are strong in mathematics especially power systems engineers, mechanical engineers on statics, dynamics and fluid mechanics, civil/structural engineers on structural mechanics, fluid mechanics and geotechnical engineering, etc. - Basic principles in management.
Management is a main feature of professional engineering involving the control of processes and of personnel. - Applications/project work.
Engineering degrees increasingly incorporate project work throughout the curriculum. Design, build and investigative contexts are addressed often working in groups. Such project work is very good for giving experience of applying and integrating material covered in the taught classes, for giving experience in managing projects and in team working.
Continuing Education
While some of what you learn about at university will form a foundation for later use in practice, what the professional engineer needs to learn about throughout their careers is a moving feast. Ideas move on, new knowledge emerges, new methods are developed. It is essential for professional engineers to keep up-to-date with such developments.