MechE or MechE Technology: Which is the Better Fit for Engineering Students?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the comparison between Mechanical Engineering (MechE) and Mechanical Engineering Technology (MechE Tech) programs, particularly in the context of Purdue University. Participants explore the differences in focus, curriculum, and potential career implications of each path, considering factors such as hands-on experience versus theoretical knowledge, and the acceptance of degrees in the job market.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the MechE Tech program is marketed as more hands-on and focused on implementation rather than theory, but questions the validity of this claim given the source.
  • Another participant suggests that a standard mechanical engineering degree is preferable, arguing that the "technology" designation could create confusion in the job market.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the acceptance of Engineering Technology degrees by some companies, with a participant stating that such degrees may not qualify candidates for engineering positions.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the differences between the two degrees but echoes concerns about job competition between graduates of technology and engineering programs.
  • A participant shares personal academic challenges, indicating a desire to apply for the MechE program despite doubts about acceptance due to low ACT scores and lack of physics coursework.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the value and recognition of Engineering Technology degrees versus traditional Engineering degrees. There is no consensus on which program is definitively better, and concerns about job market acceptance remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention varying perceptions of the value of Engineering Technology degrees in the job market, but do not provide specific data or studies to support these claims. The discussion reflects personal experiences and opinions rather than established facts.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering engineering programs, particularly those interested in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology, as well as those evaluating their academic qualifications for admission to competitive programs.

NextElement
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I've recently been looking at Purdue, and one of the programs that caught my eye was Mechanical Engineering Technology. Does anyone have any insight on this (or any of the "technology") programs versus regular engineering?

They claim the technology degree is more hands on, and more about implementation than theoretical stuff. Of course, that's the College of Technology staff talking, and I'm sure students of the College of Engineering might say differently. Also, the MechE Tech degree is a lot less math than the MechE degree.

So would you guys recommend this program? I doubt I'd get into Purdue's Engineering program, so is this a good alternative if you still would like to design and create? I'd love to work in the Automotive industry or for an Aeronautical type company (Lockheed, Boeing).
 
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Just take a standard mechanical degree. The "technology" bit tacked on at the end could end up causing some confusion which may be a negative when it comes to employment, but with a straight mechanical engineering degree you don't have to worry about this.
 
I don't really know what the difference is, but I do know that some companies do not find Engineering Technology degrees acceptable for engineering positions. As in, you will NOT be considered suitable. Something to keep in mind.
 
kinkmode said:
I don't really know what the difference is, but I do know that some companies do not find Engineering Technology degrees acceptable for engineering positions. As in, you will NOT be considered suitable. Something to keep in mind.

I suspect this is true.

Keep in mind, if you have a technology degree you will often be competing for jobs with people who have engineering degrees.
 
Thanks for input! I definitely would apply for normal MechE program, but since my ACT scores were so low (22 math, 29 composite) and the fact I haven't taken physics, I doubt I'd get accepted to Purdue's College of Engineering even though I'm in-state.
 

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