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Guide
Wed 11 Dec 2024 • 5 min read
Discover how to get into engineering with essential steps, qualifications, and skills to launch your rewarding career.
Contents
Embarking on a career in engineering can be both fulfilling and impactful. With opportunities to innovate, solve problems, and contribute to society, engineering attracts individuals with a passion for creativity and analytical thinking. This guide will walk you through the steps to get into in this dynamic field, highlighting the qualifications, skills, and strategies required for success.
Engineering offers a versatile career path. It provides high earning potential, with engineers ranking among the top earners globally. The field ensures job security, as engineers are in constant demand across industries. It also offers opportunities to innovate by developing solutions for global challenges such as renewable energy and advanced medical technologies. Additionally, engineering encompasses a variety of specialisations, including civil, mechanical, software, and aerospace engineering.
Exploring different disciplines is a vital first step. Mechanical engineering focuses on machinery, robotics, and manufacturing. Professionals in this field design and develop mechanical systems, ranging from small components like gears to large machinery like turbines. This branch plays a critical role in industries such as automotive, energy, and robotics.
Civil engineering involves designing and constructing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings. Civil engineers address large-scale societal needs by creating sustainable and efficient designs for urban and rural development. They often work on projects involving water resources, transportation systems, and environmental engineering.
Electrical engineering centres on electrical systems, electronics, and power generation. Electrical engineers contribute to fields such as renewable energy, telecommunications, and consumer electronics. Their work includes designing power grids, developing electric vehicles, and advancing communication technologies.
Software engineering combines coding and systems development to create innovative software solutions. This discipline plays a pivotal role in the tech industry, encompassing application development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Software engineers also collaborate with other fields, such as healthcare and finance, to build specialised tools and systems.
Aerospace engineering works with aircraft, spacecraft, and related technologies. Aerospace engineers focus on designing and testing vehicles that operate in the atmosphere and outer space. This includes commercial airplanes, military drones, and space exploration missions. They often tackle challenges such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and material resilience.
Additional branches such as chemical, biomedical and environmental engineering also offer specialised paths. Chemical engineering involves using chemical processes for industries like pharmaceuticals, food production, and petrochemicals. Biomedical engineering merges medicine and technology to create life-saving equipment like artificial organs and advanced diagnostic tools. Environmental engineering applies engineering principles to improve environmental sustainability, focusing on waste management, pollution control, and renewable resources.
Strong academic foundations are critical for engineering. At the GCSE level, subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and English are essential. For A-Levels or equivalent qualifications, mathematics and physics are particularly important, with further mathematics and chemistry being beneficial depending on your chosen specialisation.
Pursuing an undergraduate degree in engineering is the next step. Popular courses include the Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) and Master of Engineering (MEng). Accreditation by professional bodies, such as the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) or the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), is a key factor in selecting a programme. Postgraduate degrees, while not always necessary, can further enhance expertise and employability, especially in research-driven roles.
Engineering is a hands-on profession, making practical experience invaluable. Internships with established companies offer industry insight and skill development. Apprenticeships provide a balanced combination of work and study. Engaging in personal projects helps you hone your technical skills and demonstrates initiative to future employers.
Success in engineering requires a blend of technical and soft skills. Problem-solving skills enable engineers to address complex challenges. Communication skills are vital for articulating ideas to teams and stakeholders. Effective teamwork is crucial in collaborative projects. Technical proficiency, particularly in relevant tools and software, is a must. Time management ensures the efficient handling of multiple tasks and deadlines.
Professional accreditation validates your expertise and commitment to the field. Common UK designations include Engineering Technician (EngTech), Incorporated Engineer (IEng), and Chartered Engineer (CEng). Attaining these titles involves completing an accredited degree, gaining practical experience, and passing assessments conducted by professional bodies.
For more information, check out our guide How to Become an Engineer.
The engineering field evolves rapidly, necessitating continuous learning. Attending industry conferences and workshops keeps you informed about the latest trends and technologies. Online courses offer opportunities to expand your skillset. Reading industry journals and publications helps you stay ahead in your field.
Dukes Plus offers tailored support to guide students through every stage of this exciting and challenging journey, from building strong university applications to honing interview techniques.
Are you an aspiring engineer looking for application guidance? Our tutors have one aim: to equip you with the insights and strategies needed to navigate the competitive landscape of university applications, and get you into your dream school. To get started, check out our Tutoring page or book a free consultation today.
For hands-on experience and professional insight, InvestIN offer the ultimate work experience in engineering for students aged 15-18.
Strong grades in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and English are typically required.
Yes, practical experience gained through internships or apprenticeships is highly valuable.h
An undergraduate degree usually takes three to four years. Optional postgraduate study or accreditation may add another one to three years.
Software engineering, civil engineering, and renewable energy engineering are currently highly sought after.
In some cases, apprenticeships and vocational training can lead to engineering roles without a traditional degree.
The average starting salary for engineers in the UK varies depending on the specific discipline and level of experience. The average starting salary for an engineer is approximately £24,000 per year, with the potential to exceed £150,000 for highly experienced professionals.
Additionally, data indicates that engineering and technology graduates have an average starting salary of £29,500. It’s important to note that these figures can vary based on factors such as the specific engineering field, location, and individual qualifications. For example, chemical engineers may start with an average salary of £30,000, while civil engineers might have a starting range between £26,000 and £32,500.
To find out how Dukes can help you get into Engineering, book a free consultation today.
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