Linked closely to the field of civil engineering, Engineering Mechanics deals with the behavior of matter. You’ll learn how matter reacts to stresses, strains, and thermal effects. You’ll learn about resultants, equilibrium, and centers of gravity. You’ll learn about the strength of materials, the mechanics of motion, statics, and dynamics. You’ll study engineered structures to analyze their stability, design, and safety. Since you’ll use computers and applied mathematics on a daily basis, much of your studies will consist of mathematics courses—eventually, you’ll be using this knowledge to predict matter’s response to forces, show the behavior of matter mathematically, and perform other such tricks of the trade. As with most Engineering majors, you’ll have laboratory work to supplement your coursework, and you may have the opportunity to participate in a cooperative education program. This is a great way to get valuable hands-on experience in your field.

Preparation

Advanced math courses such as calculus, analytic geometry, and trigonometry will be your best preparation for your Engineering Mechanics major. Computer courses will also give you a good head start. And don’t forget your English classes—good engineers must also be good communicators.