Mechanical Engineering vs. Electrical Engineering: What’s the Difference?

The lines between mechanical engineering and electrical engineering can seem blurry, as both engineering disciplines involve the design and construction of things.

To make matters more confusing, modern machinery’s reliance on electronics means there’s a significant overlap in these two fields. But despite the similarities, mechanical and electrical engineering are distinct enough to have separate degrees and career paths.

To clarify these differences, we’ll be comparing mechanical engineering vs. electrical engineering, including the distinct education requirements and job prospects of each field.

Mechanical Engineering, Explained

Mechanical engineering is a hands-on discipline in which engineers apply physics and math skills to mechanical systems. If a mechanical device relies on some form of power to move or function, engineers were likely involved in designing, testing and maintaining it.

The field of mechanical engineering is vast, with engineers working worldwide to build and improve mechanical device technologies like:

• Internal combustion engines
• Aircrafts
• Conveyor belt systems
• Ships
• Wind turbines
• Refrigeration units
• Robots

As our use of technology continues to evolve, so will the discipline of mechanical engineering. In fact, mechanical engineers are often at the forefront of advancements in civil and military machinery.

Electrical Engineering, Explained

While mechanical engineering deals with the moving parts of any machine or system, electrical engineering involves the creation and application of equipment that uses (or produces) electricity.

From designing the microchips in your smartphone to the security systems in a nuclear power plant, electrical engineers play an indispensable role in our society. Since most people use multiple electronic devices every day, there’s no shortage of variety in electrical engineering; the discipline encompasses telecommunications, computers, nanotechnology and more.

In short, electrical engineers design any and all of these electrical systems, ensure they’re implemented correctly, and provide ongoing maintenance to keep them running smoothly.

Pursuing Mechanical Engineering: Everything You Need to Know

The journey to becoming a mechanical engineer is relatively straightforward, but it pays to have a plan before setting out. From well before college to long after it, the following information regarding careers in mechanical engineering will help you with your preparation.

Noteworthy Skills and Interests

As a branch of engineering, mechanical engineering leans heavily on math and the sciences. With that in mind, aspiring mechanical engineers should start fostering these skills as soon as possible—ideally in high school, before applying to colleges.

Skills and areas of expertise that will serve you well include:

• Calculus
• Linear algebra
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Creative problem solving
• Working with modeling software
• Thermodynamics
• Drafting and computer-aided design (CAD)
• Hydraulics and pneumatics

Prospective mechanical engineers should also have a passion for machines and technology in general, as they’ll be surrounded by mechanical systems every day.

Additionally, because working mechanical engineers tend to collaborate with various departments within companies and organizations, skills in communication, conflict management, and teamwork will help you succeed.

Education Requirements

If you didn’t have a chance to explore the above topics as much as you would’ve liked before graduating high school, there’s no need to worry. When you enroll in a mechanical engineering program in college, you’ll start with the basics.

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering will take four years of full-time study and result in a bachelor of science (BS) degree. The curriculum at every institution will vary slightly, but you can expect to take a range of math and science classes, as well as more specific engineering courses.

As an example, here are some of the courses that make up North Central College’s mechanical engineering degree program:

• Introduction to Computer Programming
• Introduction to Electrical Engineering
• Electromechanics I
• Introduction to Engineering
• Engineering Calculations
• Materials Science I
• Mechanical Design I
• Robotics I
• Linear Algebra and Differential Equation
• Physics I: Mechanics and Heat
• Physics II: Electromagnetism, Waves, and Optics

Within these courses, you’ll also cover beneficial topics like professional ethics, technical writing, engineering finances and more.

If mechanical engineering appeals to you, but you don’t want to pursue it as a major, some institutions offer minors in mechanical engineering. Conversely, should mechanical engineering greatly appeal to you, you may wish to pursue a master’s after your bachelor’s degree, as you’ll unlock the potential for leadership positions and higher salaries in a variety of fields.

Job Opportunities and Salaries

Mechanical engineering is a specialized technical engineering field. As a result, there’s no shortage of demand, and jobs come with substantial salaries compared to other fields. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects mechanical engineer employment to grow at a rate of 7% from 2020 to 2030, with an average of more than 20,000 new job openings per year.

Here’s a sample of some of the roles graduates can apply for, as well as their prospective salaries:

• Mechanical Engineer – Hundreds of industries require mechanical research and design, including the automotive industry and heating and cooling technology manufacturers. Across the country, the average annual salary for mechanical engineers is $90,160 according to the BLS.

• Nuclear Engineer – A degree in mechanical engineering can earn you a position with a nuclear power plant or government role, where you’ll handle systems that harness nuclear energy. The median annual salary for this position is $116,140 according to the BLS.

• Petroleum Engineer – If you’re curious about improving oil and gas extraction methods, a job in petroleum engineering may be for you; you could earn a lucrative salary that averages $137,330 per year according to the BLS.