Mechanical Engineering Junior: What Can I Achieve with a BS & MS?

In summary, the conversation discusses the benefits of pursuing a Master's degree in materials science and engineering after completing a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. The speaker, who has gone through this path, shares their experience of gaining more knowledge and being able to obtain better jobs with their Master's degree. They also mention the trade-off of losing income during graduate school but ultimately being ahead in the long run.
  • #1
Seraph042
29
0
I'm currently a junior pursuing my BS in Mechanical Engineering. The workload is difficult but the material I'm studying is interesting, albeit some more than others.

I am currently taking an introduction to materials science course and feel like I've found something I would possibly like to pursue with a masters degree. I love how applicable all of this knowledge is.

What I'm asking is what can I do with just a BS in Mechanical Engineering and what could I do if I also got an MS in materials science and engineering ?
 
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  • #2
Does nobody know ?
 
  • #3
It's a pretty broad question. I have a BS in mechanical engineering and later got a master's in materials science. I can get better jobs now, and I feel much more knowledgeable about the origin of material properties. I'm especially happy about the graduate training I got in thermodynamics, kinetics, and metallurgy. Of course, I could have been working and saving for retirement during the time I spent in graduate school.

Does this answer your question?
 
  • #4
Yes that definitely helps to answer my questions

Did you get a job before you went to graduate school? Do you know the pay difference for before and after graduate school?
 
  • #5
Yes, I worked for four years before going into materials science; it was during that time that I became dissatisfied with just looking up material properties and became curious about how behavior like resistivity, thermal conductivity, and elastic modulus arise.

I would say, in my limited experience, that getting a master's is profitable; that is, one will be ahead in the long run despite a couple years of lost income. I'm not sure that one can say the same about getting a PhD, though.
 
  • #6
Excellent, thank you very much for the information. I am currently a junior in college and am thus contemplating what to do / where I want to go with my life. I am thinking going down a similar road where I work for some years post-college until (if I decide to at that point) going to graduate school.
 

1. What is the difference between a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering?

A BS (Bachelor of Science) in Mechanical Engineering is an undergraduate degree that typically takes four years to complete. It provides a foundation in the fundamentals of mechanical engineering, including courses in mathematics, physics, mechanics, materials, and design. On the other hand, an MS (Master of Science) in Mechanical Engineering is a graduate degree that builds upon the knowledge gained in a BS program. It typically takes an additional two years to complete and offers more advanced coursework and research opportunities.

2. What career opportunities are available with a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering?

A BS in Mechanical Engineering can open up a variety of career paths, including positions in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Graduates can work as design engineers, quality control engineers, or project managers, among others. With an MS in Mechanical Engineering, graduates can pursue more specialized roles such as research and development engineer, product design engineer, or engineering manager.

3. Is it worth pursuing both a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering?

While a BS in Mechanical Engineering can lead to a successful career, an MS can provide additional opportunities for advancement and higher salaries. With an MS, graduates can also specialize in a particular area of mechanical engineering, making them more competitive in the job market. Additionally, an MS can open up opportunities for research and development positions in industries such as biotechnology and nanotechnology.

4. What skills will I develop through a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering?

Through a BS in Mechanical Engineering, students will gain a strong foundation in the principles of mechanics, materials, and design. They will also develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management. In an MS program, students will build upon these skills and also develop advanced skills in research, analysis, and innovation.

5. Can I pursue a career in other fields with a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering?

Yes, a degree in mechanical engineering can open up opportunities in diverse fields such as medicine, law, finance, and consulting. The skills and knowledge gained through a BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management, are highly transferable and can be applied to various industries and roles.

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