With the bevy of engineering options available today, deciding which branch of the field you are interested in can help focus your search for the right degree. Traditionally, engineering has been divided into four sections -- chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical -- though due to developments in the field some schools now offer environmental and biologically based engineering programs.
Chemical engineering is a broad field, encompassing the technologies and industries that utilize any sort of chemical processing, such as materials synthesis, food and pharmaceuticals, petroleum processing and product design. The Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering is a commonly offered engineering degree.
Civil engineers use the latest technologies and ideas to design and construct the architectures and infrastructures necessary for modern life. As problem solvers, they work to meet the challenges of contemporary society, including overpopulation, pollution, access to energy and water, and space travel. Many schools offer a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, with some schools offering a separate degree in Architectural Engineering.
Electrical engineering is another broad field that includes the creation and study of electrical and electronic systems, such as electrical circuits, electromagnetic fields, computers, networks and digital systems, biochips, optical fibers and telecommunications. A Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering is offered by many schools with an engineering program.
Mechanical engineers utilize physical properties to design and produce mechanical systems that use, create and transfer energy. They are frequently involved in the production of manufacturing and power plants, automobiles, aircraft, robotics and medical devices. A Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering is one of the oldest engineering degrees offered.
Emerging technologies and advancements in engineering go hand in hand, and some specialized engineering degrees become widespread when the demand for knowledge in those technologies is high. As of 2011, it is not unusual to find engineering programs offering degrees in aerospace engineering, petroleum engineering, geosystems engineering, environmental engineering and biomedical engineering, although all of these fields could be considered subbranches of the main four. Check with your school if you are seeking a specific degree, as many colleges offer specialized interdisciplinary programs that combine aspects of the different branches of engineering. You can also talk to your professors about creating your own custom coursework.