Engineering is one of the most impactful and diverse professions. From architectural marvels such as the Pyramids and the Parthenon to more modern engineering feats like the London underground and the International Space Station, the field has shaped human civilisation and continues to influence the way we live for the better.
At its core, engineering is all about problem-solving. Whether it’s designing sustainable cities, developing life-saving medical devices, or creating more efficient ways to produce energy, engineers play a vital role in shaping a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future.
If you’ve ever wondered ‘Should I become an engineer?’, this guide will help you find out. We’ll explore what engineers do, the skills you’ll need to succeed, the different types of engineering you can specialise in, and how you can begin your journey into this exciting and ever-evolving field.
What Is Engineering?
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, engineering is:
‘the work of an engineer – a person who designs or builds machines, engines, electrical systems, or large structures such as roads or bridges using scientific principles’ or ‘the study of this work.’
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines engineering as:
‘the application of science and mathematics by which the properties of matter and the sources of energy in nature are made useful to people.’
In other words, engineering is about using science and mathematics to solve real-world problems such as designing new technologies, improving existing systems, or creating solutions that make life safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
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What Do Engineers Do?
Engineering is all about finding innovative and efficient solutions to real-world problems. Depending on their chosen field, engineers might be experimenting with new materials, developing life-saving medical treatments, improving renewable energy systems, or designing innovative sports products. For example, some engineers might develop advanced technologies such as autonomous drones, robotic surgical assistants, or early-warning systems for natural disasters. Others could specialise in software development, mobile applications, cinematic visual effects, or the planning and construction of major public venues.
Typical tasks you might tackle as an engineer include:
- Coming up with innovative ideas and designs
- Improving or refining existing systems
- Making processes more efficient utilising new technologies
- Applying maths, science, and specialised knowledge to solve complex problems
- Assessing the impact of decisions on businesses, people, and the environment
- Preparing and presenting proposals for the best solutions to stakeholders
- Reviewing and improving your own work and that of others
- Coordinating multiple aspects of a project at once
Skills Needed For Engineering
We can see two core skills already standing out: a solid grasp of maths and science and an aptitude for problem-solving.
However, being a professional engineer requires much more than good grades in maths or the ability to fix a wobbly shelf. To succeed in this field, you’ll need a combination of strong technical expertise and a set of specific soft skills. If you already possess (or are willing to develop) the following abilities, then a career in engineering could be the right fit for you.
Technical knowledge in engineering begins at university and continues to grow throughout your career. The specific type of knowledge you develop will depend on the area of engineering you specialise in, but generally speaking, as technology and industry standards evolve, engineers must keep their skills up to date – whether that means learning new software, understanding different materials, or adopting sustainable design methods.
Engineers aren’t satisfied with just knowing that something works – they need to understand why it works. It is this innate curiosity and drive to explore the underlying principles of how the world operates that fuels their innovation and problem-solving.
Engineers are constantly trying to figure out how things work, why they fail, or how they could be improved.
Analytical thinking is essential for evaluating projects and comparing potential solutions. As an engineer, you won’t just be solving problems – your solutions must also meet safety, efficiency, and performance standards. Achieving this requires critical thinking: questioning assumptions, identifying risks, and making evidence-based decisions that lead to the most effective outcomes.
At its core, engineering is all about solving problems. Whether it’s repairing a machine or designing a new bridge, engineers draw on their specialised technical knowledge and creativity to overcome real-world challenges and achieve specific goals.
Engineers use these scientific and mathematical principles to design, test, and refine ideas – from calculating load-bearing capacities in construction to analysing energy efficiency in mechanical systems or developing algorithms in software engineering.
Most engineering projects are highly collaborative. You’ll often work alongside designers, technicians, managers, and clients, so being able to communicate ideas clearly and work effectively as part of a team is essential. This might involve delegating tasks, coordinating with contractors, or collaborating with other engineers to find the best solution to a specific challenge.
Most engineering projects are highly collaborative. You’ll often work alongside designers, technicians, managers, and clients, so being able to communicate ideas clearly and work effectively as part of a team is essential. This might involve delegating tasks, coordinating with contractors, or collaborating with other engineers to find the best solution to a specific challenge.
Last but not least is project management. From planning to execution, engineers often oversee different stages of a project. Strong organisational and time management skills help ensure everything runs smoothly and on schedule.
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What Are the Different Areas of Engineering?
Engineering is one of the most diverse professions available, as you can specialise in many different niche areas. With specialisation, however, comes the need for additional skills, such as a strong interest in and understanding of your chosen field.
So, what are the different areas of engineering? For reference, let’s take a look at the engineering branches available at Oxbridge. These specialisms are offered as options in the third or fourth year of your studies, which is great if you are still unsure at the beginning of your studies.
Oxford Engineering Specialisms
The University of Oxford offers eight specialist courses to choose from in Year 4. These are from within the areas of:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering Mathematics
- Information Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Production Engineering
Cambridge Engineering Specialisms
At the University of Cambridge, students can specialise their learning in one of the following areas in Year 3:
- Aerospace and Aerothermal Engineering
- Bioengineering
- Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Electrical and Information Sciences
- Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- Information and Computer Engineering
- Instrumentation and Control
- Mechanical Engineering
Common Branches of Engineering As a Career
Engineering as a career spans several areas. Common branches you can apply your specialist knowledge and experience include:
- Civil Engineering: designing and maintaining infrastructure like roads, bridges, and water systems.
- Mechanical Engineering: creating and improving machinery, vehicles, and mechanical systems.
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering: developing power systems, electronics, and communication technologies.
- Chemical Engineering: transforming raw materials into fuels, pharmaceuticals, and other products.
- Biomedical/Bioengineering: applying engineering principles to healthcare, from prosthetics to medical devices.
- Software and Computer Engineering: designing applications, algorithms, and computing systems.
- Environmental and Sustainability Engineering: developing renewable energy, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly systems.
- Aerospace Engineering: working on aircraft, spacecraft, and propulsion technologies.
- Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering: optimising production processes, supply chains, and quality control.
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How To Become An Engineer
In most cases, becoming an engineer involves completing a university degree, typically in an engineering discipline relevant to your chosen field. A degree provides the technical knowledge and minimum practical work experience needed to meet industry standards and, in many cases, to gain professional accreditation.
Entry requirements for engineering vary between universities. Top universities like Oxford and Cambridge for example, require strong A-levels – A*A*A, including A* in Maths, Physics, or Further Maths – along with strong performance on specific admissions tests (PAT, ESAT) and interviews. or Civil Engineering at UCL, applicants generally receive offers of A*AA with no specific subject requirements, although Maths and/or Physics are preferred.
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Can I Become An Engineer Without A Degree?
There are routes into engineering that don’t require a traditional degree. Some people begin building experience early through apprenticeships, vocational qualifications, or on-the-job training, gradually developing their expertise under the guidance of experienced engineers. These pathways can lead to rewarding careers, particularly in fields such as civil, mechanical, or manufacturing engineering, though it can be more challenging to demonstrate competency or achieve earnings comparable to those who have completed a degree.
Ultimately, while a degree is the most common route, what matters most is gaining the technical skills, practical experience, and professional recognition needed to succeed as an engineer.
Should I Become An Engineer?
Engineering combines creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise, providing a great opportunity to work on projects that can make a real difference in the world. If you are passionate about figuring out how and why things work, thinking critically, working in teams, and applying scientific and mathematical knowledge to practical challenges, these are strong indicators that engineering could be a highly rewarding path for you. At the same time, it’s a field that demands continuous learning, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, so keep that in mind too.
Ultimately, deciding whether to become an engineer comes down to your interests, curiosity, and willingness to develop both technical and soft skills. By reflecting on the information presented in this article, you’ll be in a much better position to make an informed decision about whether engineering could be a good fit for you. That doesn’t necessarily mean ticking every box, but rather identifying areas for growth or skills you’re eager to develop.
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FAQs
1. Why become an engineer?
Engineers shape the world around us in countless ways, from designing safe buildings, roads, and public transport systems to creating smartphones, medical devices, and renewable energy solutions. Their work often goes unnoticed, but it’s fundamental to how society functions.
If you are aiming for a career that offers the opportunity to shape the way we live for the better, engineering will be a very rewarding one.
2. What’s the difference between studying engineering and working as an engineer?
Studying engineering provides you with a strong grounding in theoretical foundations, technical principles, and problem-solving methods. Most degree programmes begin with general engineering concepts and progress toward specialisation in the later years.
In contrast, working as an engineer is far more applied and focused. You’ll manage real projects, collaborate within teams, address practical constraints such as budgets and safety, and witness the tangible impact of your solutions.
3. Which personal traits make someone a natural fit for engineering?
Beyond academic ability, successful engineers are curious, persistent, detail-oriented, and willing to challenge assumptions. They enjoy tackling complex problems, experimenting with new ideas, and learning continuously.
- Can I switch engineering disciplines later in my career?
Yes. Many engineering skills are transferable, and engineers often move between fields such as civil, mechanical, software, or biomedical engineering. Additional training or certifications may be required, but your core problem-solving and analytical skills remain highly valuable.
5. How important is teamwork in engineering?
Engineering is a very collaborative profession. Collaboration with other engineers, designers, technicians, and stakeholders based on effective communication, coordination, and understanding of different perspectives is essential to delivering safe, efficient, and innovative engineering solutions.
6. How Much Do Engineers Earn?
Engineers can earn anything between £31,000 and £62,000 and more. This reflects a broad range of roles, from graduate engineers to experienced professionals. For more specific salary insights check out our Engineering Salary Guide.
