Engineering Education (2024)

FAQs

Why is an engineering degree so difficult? ›

It requires a lot of technical prowess, a robust foundation in mathematics and science, and a strong work ethic to tackle the challenging curriculum. That being said, not all engineering majors are created equal. Some engineering majors are easier than others.

About half of those pursuing an engineering major change their field of study or drop out before graduation. And half do so during their first year of college. The most common statistic cited around the attrition rate for engineering students is that roughly 50 percent change majors or drop out before graduation.

Engineering is an exciting and rewarding career choice for those who are interested in problem solving, innovation and creativity. Engineers develop new technologies and products to solve problems, and they create and improve existing systems and processes.

These classes will get progressively harder for almost anyone. You are still absolutely capable of pursuing engineering and being successful at it. But the question is whether or not you really WANT to – you said that you aren't excited about it anymore.

Sophom*ore year may be considered the most difficult at your school because that is likely the year you begin taking "real engineering" classes and not just math, science, and other general requirements.

Which engineering is the most difficult? Electrical Engineering is often considered the most difficult due to its complex mathematics, intricate circuit design, and advanced problem-solving requirements.

Just 24% of those who studied engineering said they would make a different choice. People who studied math, computer science or physical sciences also felt good about their decisions — only one-third would study something else with hindsight.

1) Chemical Engineering

Novik's list ranks chemical engineering as the hardest major in this field. This might be because chemical engineers' unique training involves concepts from across many other STEM disciplines, including chemistry, biology, math, and physics.

Space Shuttle Columbia disaster (2003)

The Space Shuttle Columbia (OV-102) disaster occurred on February 1, 2003, during the final leg of STS-107. While reentering Earth's atmosphere over Louisiana and Texas the shuttle unexpectedly disintegrated, resulting in the deaths of all seven astronauts on board.

Engineers are recognized by employers, peers, and society alike for their character, ethics, and quality of work. Those who earn and maintain the title adhere to the highest technical, professional, and ethical standards, and they do work that makes a difference in society.

Is engineering still a good career? ›

While there is a lot of demand for high-tech expertise, many of those jobs are accessible with a 2-year degree. Engineering consistently ranks among the top 10 most popular majors, with its appeal growing even as other fields, like social sciences and humanities, experience rapidly decreasing enrollments.

While civil and industrial engineering are said to be 'easier' — with chemical, biomedical, and aerospace engineering on the opposite end of the spectrum of difficulty — it is crucial to prioritize personal interest and aptitude over the perceived difficulty of various majors.

Not everyone is meant to be an engineer, but more could be. The failure rate for engineering students is unparalleled. A staggering 40% of students in engineering do not make it through the first year and of those who make it, 30% would fail in many of its fundamental courses.

Engineering is a notoriously challenging field. These majors require lots of homework and classes that cover high-level topics like advanced calculus and physics. But some engineering majors may be less exacting than others.

Why are engineering jobs considered stressful? Though rewarding and fulfilling, engineering jobs have long been considered stressful role. You are often working under tight deadlines, sometimes away from home, with the pressure of complex, high-value projects riding on your performance.