Routes into Mechanical Engineering
University Degree (BEng or MEng Mechanical Engineering)
The most common and career-enhancing path, offering:
- A 3-4-year full-time programme combining lectures, labs, and practical projects.
- Placement opportunities with engineering firms, providing real-world experience and professional networking.
- A strong foundation in mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and design.
- Preparation for professional accreditation and Chartered Engineer status.
- Flexibility to specialise in areas such as automotive, aerospace, energy, or robotics.
This route is ideal for those who want professional recognition, broader career prospects, and higher earning potential.
Hands-on / Technical Routes
Some roles in mechanical engineering can be accessed without a degree through apprenticeships, traineeships or HNC/HND courses that combine practical work with technical qualifications. These pathways offer:
- Opportunities to gain real-world, hands-on engineering experience.
- The ability to earn a salary while learning on the job.
- Training focused on practical engineering skills and problem-solving.
- A pathway suited for those who enjoy working in workshops, labs, or on-site environments.
- Entry into technician-level or support engineering roles
This route is ideal for those focused on practical engineering work. However, they usually do not lead directly to Chartered Engineer status or the highest-level positions.
Should I go to university or choose an apprenticeship?
Both routes can lead to careers in mechanical engineering - but the difference lies in how you prefer to learn, the level of qualification you want, and the roles you aspire to. If you prefer a more practical, hands-on approach, an apprenticeship or vocational qualification can be an excellent starting point, giving you real-world experience and access to many technician or junior engineering roles. If your ambitions include progressing to higher-level positions, taking on greater responsibility, or eventually achieving Chartered Engineer status, then a degree is usually the most direct and widely recognised route.
Thinking beyond entry-level roles
A mechanical engineering degree opens the door to long-term growth in leadership, consultancy, research, and innovation across a wide range of industries. It’s a versatile qualification that can lead you into everything from hands-on engineering to strategic, high-level roles, giving you plenty of options for shaping the career you want. Find out more in our 'What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree' FAQ.
