Expect to take between three and six years to qualify for entry-level jobs in mechanical engineering. You'll likely need to earn a four-year degree. You'll also need at least some internship experience. Finally, a mechanical engineering master's degree can set you apart from other job seekers.
Educational requirements for mechanical engineer careers
Most companies hiring mechanical engineers require at least a bachelor's degree in engineering. In countries where a bachelor's degree isn't the standard, look for other undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering.
The average time to earn a bachelor's degree is four years. Some schools offer five-year programs that combine bachelor's degrees in engineering with an advanced degree. You can also earn a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering, which takes another three to five years.
Your choice of degree program matters, too. For example, ABET accredits more than 4,000 degrees in natural and physical sciences globally. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program increases the credibility of your degree around the world.
You can also find alternative mechanical engineering degree programs. For example, an associate's degree in mechanical engineering technology has a more practical approach and can get your foot in the door as an entry-level engineer. Similarly, some online programs are still credible enough to become ABET-accredited engineering programs.
Earning your professional engineering license in mechanical engineering
You won't need it for entry-level positions, but most countries require a license for anyone who wants to call themselves a professional engineer. The exact licensing requirements depend on the country in which you're looking to gain licensure. More commonly, they include:
- A degree from a four-year mechanical engineering program
- Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam
- Four years of relevant work experience under a professional engineer
- Passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam
In the United States, the National Society of Professional Engineers oversees the licensing process. In Europe, it's a similar association called Engineers Europe and in Australia, it's the National Engineering Register. Most licenses transfer between countries thanks to their similar requirements.
Certifications in the mechanical engineering profession
A variety of certification programs can help you quantify your practical experience and specializations. These industry certifications are not required to start your career but can set you apart from other candidates. Examples of common and valuable mechanical engineering certifications include:
- Assistive design certificate
- CAD and digital manufacturing certificate
- Systems engineering certification
- Robotics engineering certificate
- And more.
Look for professional associations in your country to offer these certifications. For example, the American Society for Mechanical Engineers offers a wide range of certificates for mechanical engineering graduates.
You can also enhance your resume with an engineer in training license. It shows employers that you are on your way to a successful engineering career. Requirements for engineers in training differ by state and country. Most likely, you'll need a degree from an ABET-accredited school along with eight years of experience, which can include either practical experience or a graduate degree.
Typical internships and apprenticeship paths in mechanical engineering
Even entry-level jobs in mechanical engineering have at least some experience requirements. You can gain that valuable experience in the form of an internship.
Engineer interns learn how to apply basic engineering principles. They also get used to the job environment they will encounter in the field. You'll learn to apply your engineering knowledge in real-world projects, from manufacturing settings to the automotive industry.
To earn your professional engineer license, you'll need more in-depth job experience. Look for organizations that offer multi-year job training programs under licensed engineers.
Advancement and specialization opportunities as a mechanical engineer
As the broadest engineering field, mechanical engineering provides plenty of opportunities for specialization. You can become a biomedical engineer or focus on more theoretical engineering economics. You might build advanced energy systems or artificial limbs and organs. You might research nuclear energy or build gas turbines.
The key to specialization is getting the right experience and credentials in these subjects. The right certifications can help, as does advanced knowledge gained through on-the-job training.
Beyond that, moving forward in your career journey requires both soft skills and ongoing professional development. For example, an engineering doctoral degree or certificate in management in engineering can add to your credentials. Over time, you can become an engineering lead, engineering manager, or senior engineer.