Can I major in multiple engineering disciplines?
I’m currently a first-year mechanical engineering major and am completing my foundational courses at community college. I have friends in various engineering fields, and I’ve noticed that many of the required courses overlap. This got me thinking: could I graduate, then return to university for a year or two to complete classes in other majors? For instance, I’m pursuing a mechanical engineering degree but I’m also interested in coding. It turns out that many ME degree requirements overlap with those for computer science, except for the core classes and a few extras. So, once I earn my ME degree, could I go back to my university and take a couple of years to finish the CS major classes? I’m curious if this could allow me to gradually accumulate knowledge in multiple engineering fields—like mechanical, software, electrical, industrial, chemical, materials, and civil engineering. While I know I may not be able to do all of them, I definitely want to pursue at least one more degree.
Can I major in every engineering discipline?
Your ambition to explore multiple engineering disciplines is commendable! While it is certainly possible to pursue additional degrees after completing your first one, there are a few things to consider:
University Policies: Check with your university’s policies regarding earning multiple degrees. Some schools may have specific requirements or limitations on how many degrees you can pursue simultaneously or sequentially.
Prerequisites and Core Classes: As you mentioned, many engineering majors share common core classes, which can make transitioning between disciplines easier. However, each engineering field also has unique courses that you’ll need to take, so make sure you’re aware of the requirements for each major you’re interested in.
Time and Commitment: Earning multiple degrees will require a significant time commitment, so it’s essential to consider how this will fit into your overall career goals and life plans. You may also want to think about whether pursuing additional degrees in engineering, like software or electrical, aligns with your long-term career aspirations.
Job Market: Depending on the job market and your interests, you might find that a combination of a specific engineering degree and self-taught skills (like coding) could be just as valuable as multiple degrees.
Alternative Options: Consider options like double majoring, minoring, or earning certificates in specific areas of interest. This can save time and resources while still providing you with valuable skills that can complement your primary degree.
Overall, if you decide to pursue additional degrees, it’s certainly doable, especially if you’re strategic about the courses you take. Good luck with your studies!