Choosing mechanical engineering: a versatile and high-demand major

Key takeaways about a mechanical engineering major

• Mechanical engineering majors study how things move, function, and are built.

• You’ll learn math, physics, materials science, and design fundamentals.

• This degree opens doors to careers in aerospace, automotive, energy, robotics, and more.

• Mechanical engineering offers strong salary potential and job security.

• You can pair this major with minors or double majors like computer science or business.

Thinking about majoring in mechanical engineering? Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest and most versatile majors out there. It blends creativity and problem-solving with math and science to design, analyze, and improve machines and systems we use every day—from cars and planes to medical devices and renewable energy systems.

What is mechanical engineering?

Mechanical engineering is the study of motion, energy, and force. Students in this major learn how to apply physics, materials science, and advanced mathematics to design and improve mechanical systems. If you enjoy figuring out how things work, fixing problems, or imagining new technologies, this field could be your perfect match.

Mechanical vs. civil engineering

Mechanical engineers design and improve machines, engines, and systems, while civil engineers focus on infrastructure like bridges, roads, and buildings. If you’re excited about technology and innovation, mechanical might be a better fit. But if you like working on large-scale structures that impact entire communities, civil could be your path.

Mechanical vs. electrical engineering

Mechanical engineers primarily deal with moving parts and physical systems. Electrical engineers focus on electricity, circuits, and power systems. The two often collaborate, but the key difference is that mechanical engineering leans more on mechanics and materials, while electrical digs into energy and electronics.

Key courses for mechanical engineering majors

If you choose mechanical engineering, you’ll dive into key courses that teach you how things move, heat up, and get built:

• Statics and dynamics

• Thermodynamics

• Fluid mechanics

• Materials science

• Control systems

• Mechanical design

Together, these classes help you sharpen your problem-solving skills and learn how to design real-world solutions—exactly what employers look for.

Specializations for mechanical engineering majors

As a mechanical engineering major, you’ll have the chance to focus on areas that match your interests and career goals. For example, you could dive into robotics if you’re excited about automation and AI, explore aerospace if you dream of designing aircraft or spacecraft, or go into automotive engineering to work on the next generation of cars.

Other paths include energy systems, where you’ll study sustainable power and efficiency, or manufacturing, where you’ll learn how products are designed and built at scale. Choosing a specialization lets you customize your degree and build expertise in the field you’re most passionate about.

Common double majors or minors to pair with mechanical engineering

Many students pair mechanical engineering with computer science, electrical engineering, or business. A double major or minor can make you stand out, especially if you want to move into fields like robotics, entrepreneurship, or product design.

Skills I’ll build as a mechanical engineering major

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Computer-aided design (CAD)
• Project management
• Team collaboration
• Programming and data analysis

Popular career paths for mechanical engineering majors

Mechanical engineering jobs span across industries, offering flexibility and stability. Graduates can become:

• Aerospace engineers
• Automotive engineers
• Robotics specialists
• Energy analysts
• Manufacturing engineers
• Product designers

How much can I earn with a mechanical engineering degree?

Mechanical engineers can earn a strong salary, with typical pay around $102,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start closer to $68,000, while experienced engineers can make over $160,000. Job growth is steady, and salaries can be higher in some regions. It’s a career that offers good pay and opportunities across many industries.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 2025

Notable schools for mechanical engineering

If you’re thinking about a mechanical engineering degree, here are some schools known for their top-notch programs:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Stanford University

• University of Michigan
  

• Georgia Institute of Technology
  

• Purdue University

But don’t stress—many universities across the U.S. offer excellent programs. You can explore schools with our Scout College Search tool.

Scholarships for mechanical engineering majors

Pursuing a degree can be expensive, but there are scholarships designed just for mechanical engineering students. Check out scholarships for mechanical engineering majors as well as scholarships by major and the popular $2k No Essay Scholarship. You can also use Scholly Scholarships to match with even more opportunities.

Choosing a major is a big decision, but mechanical engineering gives you a flexible, high-demand degree that opens doors to many industries. If you’re curious, creative, and ready to solve real-world problems, this major could be the perfect fit.