Engineering Mechanics vs Mechanical Engineering?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the comparison between engineering mechanics and mechanical engineering, particularly focusing on job prospects, the nature of research versus industry work, and the relevance of engineering mechanics as a field of study. Participants explore the implications of choosing a more specialized program versus a broader engineering degree.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for engineering mechanics due to its focus on classical mechanics but raises concerns about job availability and the program's popularity compared to other fields.
  • Another participant suggests that mechanical engineering is more advantageous for those interested in industry, as it encompasses a wider range of subjects that may enhance employability.
  • A question is posed about the desire to learn more about mechanics, indicating a potential interest in deeper theoretical understanding.
  • A participant mentions that researchers typically require a PhD and suggests that undergraduates should choose paths that keep options open, implying that mechanical engineering may offer more flexibility.
  • There is a query about the benefits of pursuing engineering mechanics over a standard engineering degree, with one participant expressing skepticism about its advantages.
  • Another participant inquires about the existence of fields that integrate classical and quantum mechanics, indicating an interest in interdisciplinary connections.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the merits of engineering mechanics versus mechanical engineering. There are competing views regarding job prospects, the value of theoretical versus practical knowledge, and the relevance of engineering mechanics as a field.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying assumptions about job markets, the nature of research roles, and the educational paths that may lead to successful careers. There is also uncertainty regarding the future relevance of engineering mechanics as a program.

Ishida52134
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I'm primarily interested in engineering mechanics because I like the narrowness of the program to classical mechanics rather than a broad range of subjects including other areas of physics as well.
My only concern is the job availability. What are the pro's and con's to engineering mechanics and mechanical engineering in terms of job prospects?
And because engineering mechanics is more theoretical which would mostly lead to research, what are the pro's and con's of research vs industry work?
And also, is engineering mechanics a dying program, because it is not as popular in comparison to others such as physicists.

thanks.
 
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Just do mechanical engineering if you're interested in industry - it's all the "other" areas that'll help you get employed with a mechanical engineering degree.
 
what if you want to learn more about mechanics?
 
Then you can go to the library and read a book.
 
what would a researcher aim to do in contrast to an engineer.
 
In industry or academia?

Usually a PhD is a requirement for research roles, but I think you'd be getting away with yourself on planning a PhD before you've even started your undergrad. I think that with your undergrad you should do something that keeps as much doors open as possible and an ordinary mechanical engineering degree does that perfectly.
 
Are there any benefits to doing engineering mechanics instead.
 
are there fields with classical mechanics and quantum mechanics?
 
I personally can't see any benefit to doing engineering mechanics instead of a normal engineering degree.
 

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