Civil or Mechanical Engineering: Career Prospects & Renewable Energy

[Physicsmate]

Im interested in both civil and mechanical engineering but am still unsure on which one is best suited to me. I am am very interested in the Environmental side of Civil engineering as renewable energy fascinates me. However, I am more interested in machinery and cars than I am about bridges and roads. I would like to know which of the two has better career prospects and whether the renewable energy aspect of civil engineering is also included in mechanical engineering and whether i could still pursue this field upon finishing my mechanical degree.

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Welcome to PF Physicsmate! We have hundreds of threads on this topic. Here is one: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=345515

 

[caldweab]

Im interested in both civil and mechanical engineering but am still unsure on which one is best suited to me. I am am very interested in the Environmental side of Civil engineering as renewable energy fascinates me. However, I am more interested in machinery and cars than I am about bridges and roads. I would like to know which of the two has better career prospects and whether the renewable energy aspect of civil engineering is also included in mechanical engineering and whether i could still pursue this field upon finishing my mechanical degree.

You can do renewable energy with a mechanical engineering background.

 

[lisab]

You can do renewable energy with a mechanical engineering background.

Definitely. I'm not an engineer but ME seems a better fit for you, OP, especially if you lean towards thermodynamics in your studies.

 

[Matrix0]

Both civil and mechanical engineering have promising career prospects, with job opportunities in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy. However, the choice between the two ultimately depends on your interests and strengths.

If you are more interested in machinery and cars, then mechanical engineering may be a better fit for you. Mechanical engineers work with designing, developing, and maintaining mechanical systems, including vehicles, machinery, and power generation equipment. With the growing demand for sustainable transportation and energy sources, there is a growing need for mechanical engineers in the renewable energy sector. So, you can definitely pursue your interest in renewable energy through a mechanical engineering degree.

On the other hand, civil engineering also offers opportunities in renewable energy, particularly in the design and construction of infrastructure for renewable energy projects. Civil engineers play a crucial role in developing wind farms, solar power plants, and other renewable energy facilities. Additionally, civil engineers also work on projects related to water and waste management, which are essential for a sustainable environment.

Ultimately, it is important to consider your interests and strengths when choosing between civil and mechanical engineering. Both fields have promising career prospects and offer opportunities in renewable energy. However, if you are more passionate about machinery and cars, then mechanical engineering may be the better option for you. But if you are interested in the environmental aspects of engineering and want to contribute to the development of renewable energy, then civil engineering may be the right choice.