Aerospace or mechanical engineering?

AI Thread Summary
Choosing between Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering hinges on job security and market stability. Mechanical Engineering offers broader career opportunities across various industries, making it less vulnerable to fluctuations in any single sector, including aerospace. Graduates in Aerospace Engineering may face challenges if the aerospace industry experiences downturns, impacting job availability. For those uncertain about their commitment to aerospace, pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree provides flexibility and the option to specialize later. Ultimately, a clear passion for aerospace is essential if one decides to pursue that path despite potential market risks.
AeroMechReady
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hello, I am just starting college and I have been intending on getting my BA in Aerospace Engineering but lately engineers that I have talked to say that a safer and equal paying job would be Mechanical Engineering. I was wondering which would be a better decision from a job security, financial, and location perspective?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Probably mechanical engineering just because it is so broad you can work in a lot of different fields. The problem with Aerospace Engineering is that the graduates in this field are mostly at the mercy of the aerospace industry. So if it sucks or isn't hiring much then it might be difficult for an aero engineer to find a job. But mech engineers are less likely to be similarly affected by a single industry.

I think you should only do aerospace engineering if that is absolutely what you want to do no matter what. If you are not 100% sure, do mechanical engineering for undergrad. As a mech engineer you can a lot of aero stuff as an undergrad and in industry anyways. If after undergrad you still really want to be an aero engineer you could always go to grad school.
 
I am in a similar situation as AeroMechReady and was also wondering how the astronautic industry would look like in 4/5 years. It is what i really want to do, but if there's no market for it, it'll just be a waste. how DOES the job market look in a few years?
 
Due to the constant never ending supply of "cool stuff" happening in Aerospace these days I'm creating this thread to consolidate posts every time something new comes along. Please feel free to add random information if its relevant. So to start things off here is the SpaceX Dragon launch coming up shortly, I'll be following up afterwards to see how it all goes. :smile: https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/
Back
Top