Though the various fields of engineering require different specialty subjects, all engineering requires a core of skills. Among the core subjects required are advanced math such as calculus and a foundation in the sciences. Fields of science pertinent to engineering include physics, chemistry and biology. More advanced science and math classes correspond with specific fields of engineering, though a basic knowledge of advanced mathematical concepts and a background in all major sciences is required of all engineers.
All engineering is technically scientific engineering. However, some fields of engineering are more strictly bound by pure science and scientific theory. Fields of scientific engineering include biological engineering, chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, biomolecular engineering and biomedical engineering. Subjects students in these fields take on the way to a degree include systems biology, physiology, physical biology, tissue engineering, cellular engineering, molecular engineering, clinical needs and technology, transport phenomena, kinetics and reactor design, and mathematical modeling of the chemical process.
The argument could be made that all engineering is to some degree practical engineering. However, some fields of engineering, such as civil, aerospace, aeronautics, environmental, computer and electrical engineering have more direct effects on the physical human environment. Engineers in these fields build roads, bridges, airplanes and spaceships and help design things such as traffic flow and flight routes. Subjects required in these fields of engineering include ecology, geotechnical analysis and design, sustainable built environments, transportation and logistics, thermodynamics and compressible flow, structural dynamics and aeroelasticity, electromagnets, microelectronic circuits, digital design, numerical analysis and analysis of algorithms.
Students working toward a degree in engineering have the option of taking elective courses in fields related to engineering. Among the electives available to students of engineering are differential equations of advanced math, law and Internet technology, computer science, construction management and planning, video game design and management, material science, engineering technology commercialization, engineering writing, information technology, interactive multimedia and craniofacial and dental biotechnology.