What’s it really like to study engineering? |
Posted: September 25, 2018 |
If you’re considering a degree in engineering, you need to make sure you know as much about the subject as possible
The subject of engineering covers a huge range of different disciplines and specialities. Unlike the sciences, however, engineering concerns itself with the way man-made things work, rather than the wider universe. This includes machines, engines, structures and technological tools. For anyone interested in engineering, there is no shortage of areas to get engrossed in, from chemical engineering and civil engineering, to mechanical engineering and electrical engineering among others. Engineering plays an important role in our everyday live, from the way we use electricity to light up our homes to the way we use bridges to cross rivers, so it’s no wonder so many people are fascinated by it. If you are enthralled by engineering and want to explore the subject further at a university level, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your studies. What grades will you need?If you’re interested in taking your engineering passion further, the first hurdle you’ll need to overcome is getting the grades required to study. This largely depends on the university you choose and the kind of engineering you want to study. As a general rule however, most universities will be looking for evidence of proficiency in mathematics and a relevant science. Engineering tends to be a competitive course, so the grades required are often high. For example, Newcastle University’s Chemical Engineering BEng requires ABB-AAB and grades in Maths and Chemistry, while the University of Glasgow’s 4-year Civil Engineering BEng looks for Maths and Physics and three A grades. What are your options for study?Although you will find that some universities offer generic engineering courses covering the basics of several disciplines, most degrees will focus on a specific school of engineering. So you will need to think carefully about the area of engineering that most appeals to you. Although each strand will have crossovers and similarities, they will also lead to very different fields as you go further into your degree. Most of your teaching will comprise of lectures in lecture theatres and practical, lab based work. A three-year course will grant you a BEng qualification at the end, while some will give you the opportunity to stay a fourth Masters year to leave with a MEng qualification. Some courses will also give you the chance to do a sandwich year between your second and third year. This will give you the chance to get some practical experience of the industry. The different schools of engineering include: - Chemical engineering, which involves the manipulation of raw materials - Civil engineering, which involves the building and maintenance of buildings, bridges and roads - Structural engineering, which involves the design of large structures - Mechanical engineering, which deals with the repair and operation of machines Why should you study engineering?Simply put, there is something satisfying about making things that work. If your passions lie with maths, design and problem solving, engineering will probably be right up your street. Many people also find that their engineering degree stands them in good stead following their studies, as engineering is an integral part of everyday life and is therefore applicable to many career paths. Cambridge university engineering summer coursesStill not sure if engineering is really the right subject for you? Then test it out before you commit. Cambridge university summer courses like Cambridge Immerse give you the chance to get to grips with the subject and truly understand what it will be like to study engineering at university.
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