Mechanical Engineering solves the mysteries of physical machinery, where the domains of force, motion, and engineering intersect. Furthermore, it is one of the oldest and most extensive branches of Engineering, centered on the creation, production, and operation of machinery and its parts. India serves as a manufacturing hub and mechanical engineers play a crucial role in this industry. The demand for competent professionals is substantial, with a projected growth rate of 5%.
Mechanical engineering is an expansive field of engineering, with options for specialization in robotics, aerospace, automotive engineering, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), biomechanics, and other areas. The duration of a Mechanical Engineering course can vary from 3 to 5 years depending on the level. A student pursuing a Mechanical Engineering programme will acquire knowledge about designing automobiles, electric motors, aircraft, and other heavy vehicles. Candidates who wish to be admitted into mechanical engineering courses can take them after the conclusion of their class 12th from a recognized institution with at least 50% marks in aggregate having Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects. Candidates must have a BE/BTech in Mechanical Engineering to be eligible to enroll in MTech Mechanical Engineering courses.
The Indian administration’s emphasis on infrastructure growth, manufacturing, and the “Make in India” campaign is leading to an expanding employment sector for Mechanical Engineers. This increasing demand is accompanied by intriguing areas of expertise. If individuals have a keen interest in Robotics, Mechatronics, Thermal Engineering, or Nanotechnology, a degree in Mechanical Engineering can serve as a starting point for a rewarding career in their preferred specialization.
Mechanical Engineering syllabus includes subjects such as Machine Design, Mechanical Measurements, etc. Mechanical Engineering admissions can be done through merit as well as entrance exams. Some of the top Mechanical Engineering entrance exams are JEE Main, JEE Advanced, MHT CET, TS EAMCET, WBJEE, etc. Online mechanical engineering can be done from reputable institutes such as Coursera, EdX, Swayam, etc. The offline Mechanical Engineering courses can be pursued at IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, IIT Roorkee, Chandigarh University, CT University, UPES Dehradun, Jadavpur University, Manipal Institute of Technology, and more. The offline mechanical engineering fees are approximately INR 1,00,000 to INR 15,00,000 depending on the course structure.
Mechanical Engineering Course Details: Highlights
The major highlights of the Mechanical Engineering courses are given in the table below:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mechanical Engineering Course |
| Level of Programme | Diploma, UG, PG, and PhD |
| Duration |
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| Exam Type | Semester-wise |
| Eligibility Criteria |
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| Admission Process | Merit-Based + Entrance Exam |
| Top Entrance Exams | JEE Main, GATE, WBJEE, GATE, VITEEE, BITSAT, etc. |
| Average Course Fee |
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| Average Starting Salary |
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| Job Profiles | Assistant Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Professor/Lecturer, Mechanical Technician, Lab Assistant, etc. |
| Major Recruiters | Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd, Larsen & Toubro, BMW, Reliance Industries, TATA Motors, Toshiba, and more. |
Why Choose a Mechanical Engineering Degree?
India is becoming a well-known global manufacturing hub, leading to a high demand for skilled mechanical engineers in industries such as automotive, aerospace, power generation, and machinery. According to Invest India, the Indian manufacturing sector is predicted to reach $1 trillion by 2025. The integration of automation, robotics, and additive manufacturing into industries creates new opportunities for engineers with relevant skill sets. The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) highlights the importance of engineers who can merge mechanical engineering with other disciplines. However, despite the high demand, there is a gap between the number of qualified mechanical engineers required and the available workforce. A report by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) predicts a shortage of 2 million mechanical engineers in India by 2022. The following are some reasons to choose a Mechanical Engineering course:
- Abundance of Career Opportunities: Pursuing the course may lead to professions in a variety of fields, including sales, agriculture, chemistry, and construction. They may also find opportunities in sectors such as robotics, nanotechnology, or aeronautics.
- Be a Part of Innovation: The course plays a critical role in pushing technical progress and innovation. They work on new product development, refining current technologies, and pushing the frontiers of technical solutions.
- Global Prospects: Mechanical engineering is an internationally known subject that provides chances for worldwide job experiences and partnerships. India has various skilled engineers that are highly demanded by international companies and abroad.
- Impact on Society: Mechanical engineers have the opportunity to positively affect society. Mechanical engineers’ work may help to improve quality of life, promote environmental sustainability, and address global concerns, from generating sustainable energy solutions to upgrading transportation systems and inventing medical gadgets.
Mechanical Engineering Course Eligibility Criteria
In India, the eligibility criteria for Mechanical Engineering courses may vary from one college or university to another. The table below discusses the prerequisites for the course at different academic levels:
| Degree Type | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|
| Diploma | Candidates applying for diploma courses should have obtained at least 50% aggregate marks in class 10th from any recognized board. |
| BE/ BTech | Students applying for bachelor’s degrees should be 10+2 qualified in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects from a recognized board with at least an aggregate score of 50%. |
| M.Tech | Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study with 50% to 60% aggregate marks from a recognized board. |
Required Skill Set for Mechanical Engineering
The skills required to succeed in the field of mechanical engineering have been explained below.
Technical Skills
Mathematics – Mechanical engineers should have a strong knowledge of mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and differential equations. They use mathematics to solve problems in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, mechanics, and other areas of engineering.
Physics – A strong understanding of physics is required by mechanical engineers including thermodynamics, mechanics, and fluid mechanics. Physics is used to understand the behavior of mechanical systems and analyze them.
Engineering principles – It is essential to keep up with fracture mechanics, stress analysis, fatigue, and materials science to design and analyze mechanical systems that will ensure that they are secure and reliable.
Design – Mechanical engineers should be able to design mechanical systems utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) software, and create engineering drawings.
Fabrication – They need to have a strong understanding of fabrication techniques, such as welding, machining, and assembly. They are required to be able to manufacture prototypes and production parts.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication is important for mechanical engineers to interact with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. They should be capable of writing concise and precise technical reports and delivering presentations that are effortless to understand. Mechanical engineers should have strong interpersonal skills to work efficiently in teams. It is compulsory to cooperate with others to attain common goals and solve concerns.
Apart from these fundamental skills, mechanical engineers should focus on developing competencies in the following areas –
- Project management – Mechanical engineers need to manage complex engineering projects. They should schedule, plan, and execute projects efficiently.
- Problem-solving – Cracking difficult problems is an essential skill for mechanical engineers. Pinpointing problems, collecting information, interpreting data, and creating solutions are important elements of their job.
- Creativity – Mechanical engineers need to be innovative while solving issues. They should come up with creative ideas and techniques.
- Leadership -Mechanical engineers may lead teams or projects. They should provide direction, motivation, and support to others.
Career Options and Job Prospects After Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering is a well-known career that is emerging in great demand with handsome earnings in the higher range in both private and public enterprises. Candidates are required to check their career options and job prospects to have clarity on which profile they should apply to after the course is completed. The pay scale of a mechanical engineer is always determined by the amount of work they put into the process. A mechanical engineer can easily get hired by reputed companies and organizations in the following Mechanical Engineering job profiles:
- Assistant Mechanical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Mechanical Technician
- Lab Assistant
- Professor/Lecturer