Electrical engineering and electromechanical engineering are among the most challenging degree programs you can ever pursue.
Moreover, the two academic programs have striking similarities; they both deal with electricity and related concepts. This means separating the two and choosing the ideal course of study can be overwhelming for aspiring engineers.
If you are having trouble choosing between electrical engineering and electromechanical engineering, worry no more.
This post dissects and highlights the significant differences between the two academic programs, making it easier for you to decide.
What is electrical engineering?
Electrical engineering is a broad discipline that covers electric current, light, and devices that use electricity and electronics.
It is essentially the study of electrical and power systems. It covers other sub-disciplines such as telecommunications, energy generation, and radio-frequency engineering.
What is electromechanical engineering?
Electromechanical engineering is an advanced branch of engineering that combines the primary concepts of electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
It focuses on the relation between electrical and mechanical engineering. An electromechanical engineer analyses, designs, manufactures, and maintains electrical equipment and mechanical systems
Electrical Vs. Electromechanical Engineering (Compared)
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for both electrical and electromechanical engineering are more or less the same. To pursue a degree in electrical engineering, you need a solid academic background in mathematics, technical mathematics, and physics.
Electromechanical engineering has similar requirements, but students also need a solid background in math, physical sciences, chemistry, and technology.
Many universities offer foundational courses to help aspiring engineers meet these requirements before commencing the degree program.
Verdict: Both electrical and electromechanical engineering have similar entry requirements
Complexity
Let’s face it. No engineering degree program is easy. Students have to research, study, and practice consistently throughout the academic program to graduate with a desirable grade.
Electrical and electromechanical are not any different from other engineering programs. They are both complex, and many scholars consider them the most challenging form of engineering.
When comparing the two, electromechanical engineering is more technical than electrical engineering. Students seeking to pursue a degree in electromechanical engineering must first learn electrical engineering concepts and combine them with mechanical engineering concepts.
Verdict: Electromechanical engineering is more complex than electrical engineering.
Also read: Can A Mechanical Engineer Do Robotics?
Scope for innovations
Both electrical engineering and electromechanical engineering have massive room for innovation.
Students from the two fields of study have excellent opportunities to exercise what they learn in school in the real world. Whether you are an electrical or electromechanical engineer, you can practice and experiment with your ideas and turn them into reality.
Nonetheless, electromechanical engineering seems to have a broader scope for innovations since it combines electrical and mechanical engineering aspects, meaning students have more room to explore and experiment.
Verdict: Electromechanical engineering has a broader scope for innovations
Career prospects
The global demand for electrical and electromechanical engineers is increasing every day.
Aspiring engineers in both domains have numerous career opportunities in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, building & construction, power generation, communication, and electronics, among other industries.
However, electromechanical engineers seem to have an edge over electrical engineers regarding career prospects. An electromechanical engineer has the expertise of both an electrical engineer and a mechanical engineer. They can work in both domains effortlessly.
Verdict: Electromechanical engineers have more career opportunities due to their all-round expertise
Read Electrical Vs. Robotics Engineering.
FAQs
Is electrical engineering the same as electromechanical engineering?
No, electrical engineering and electromechanical engineering are not the same. Even though the two disciplines might have striking similarities, they are different.
Electrical engineering revolves around electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. In contrast, electromechanical engineering combines aspects of both electrical engineering and mechanical engineering.
While electrical engineering focuses on power generation, electromechanical engineering determines how the generated power is transmitted.
Electrical engineering concentrates on electric circuits and other electrical equipment that generate power. In contrast, electromechanical engineering focuses on designing motors and other components that will help supply the generated power.
The only similarities between electrical engineering and electromechanical engineering are the entry requirements, the scope for innovations, and career prospects.
To study any of the disciplines in focus, you must have a solid academic background in mathematics and physical sciences.
Aspiring electrical and electromechanical engineers must be critical thinkers with excellent problem-solving skills. They must also be inquisitive, creative, and practical.
Another similarity revolves around the scope for experimenting and practicing. Both disciplines allow engineers to explore and exercise their ideas, creating room for improvising and innovating new concepts and systems.
Finding employment is equally easy since electrical and electromechanical engineers are in great demand worldwide.
Is electromechanical engineering a good career?
Yes. A career as an electromechanical engineer can be fulfilling, thanks to the numerous opportunities for advancement and the lucrative perks that come with the job.
It is mainly a suitable option for technical students who like to conceptualize and build electrical and mechanical systems.
Graduates of electromechanical engineering can pursue various careers such as:
- Electromechanical technician
- Electrical engineer
- Manufacturing engineer
- Maintenance engineer
- Mechanical engineer
- Electromechanical engineering technologist
What do electromechanical engineers make?
Electromechanical engineering is a combination of electrical and mechanical engineering. With this in mind, electromechanical engineers are responsible for a broad range of tasks, including:
- Design and develop electrical and mechanical equipment
- Design and build mechanical components used in electrical devices
- Maintain electrical and mechanical machinery
- Ensure mechanical parts of electrical machines work appropriately
- Investigate and fix technical glitches in electrical and mechanical equipment
- Oversee the manufacturing processes of various machinery
- Perform scientific research related to electrical and mechanical engineering
What is unique about electrical engineering?
Electrical engineering is unique in the sense that it is responsible for a broad range of technologies and sub-disciplines.
From GPS to electric power generation, the knowledge and skills acquired through studying electrical engineering can help shape the world’s future.
That’s not all. Electrical engineering opens up more opportunities for researching and exploring other fields such as telecommunications and computer science.
What are the benefits of being an electrical engineer?
The benefits of pursuing a career in electrical engineering are almost countless.
First, electrical engineers are always in demand. The global market for electrical engineers is increasing rapidly due to the numerous advancements in science and technology. If you can design and develop electrical control systems, you can be sure of a job after graduating.
Electrical engineering is a discipline that is at the forefront of new technological developments in various fields such as healthcare, transportation, banking, and construction. This offers you the chance to experiment and bring your ideas to life.
Another significant benefit of being an electrical engineer is the lucrative perks. Electrical engineers are among the highest-paid professionals worldwide. Aside from the high wages, you get the chance to advance your career by undertaking related certifications and courses.
Is electromechanical engineering hard?
Yes, electromechanical engineering is one of the most demanding fields of study. It has a low retention rate, with only a handful of students graduating at the end of the program.
What makes electromechanical engineering more challenging is that students have to study concepts from two different disciplines.
You have to learn about electrical engineering and mechanical engineering before combining and applying the primary elements of the two academic programs.
The program also requires students to have a solid background in mathematical concepts such as calculus, algebra, and physics. Many undergraduates struggle to overcome these subjects.
Nonetheless, if you have the drive and passion coupled with dedication and perseverance, you can overcome these challenging classes and graduate as an electromechanical engineer.
Are electromechanical engineers in demand?
Electrical, electronics, and electromechanical engineers are in great demand in the USA and the world.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for electrical and electromechanical engineers will rise by 7% from 2020 to 2030. These statistics are more than the average for all other occupations.
If you had second thoughts about pursuing a degree in electromechanical engineering, the statistics quickly dispel any fears. Based on this data, the future looks bright for electrical and electromechanical engineers.
How to become an electromechanical engineer?
Becoming an electromechanical engineer is a long and tedious journey that requires dedication and perseverance. You will face numerous challenges along the way, and only those who overcome these obstacles graduate to become reputable engineers.
With that said, here are the steps on how to become an electromechanical engineer:
- Graduate from high school
- Obtain a Bachelor’s degree in electromechanical engineering
- Get hands-on experience as an intern
- Get professional experience working with different electrical and mechanical systems
- Enroll in a Master’s Degree program (optional) to advance your career
Where can an electromechanical engineer work?
As discussed earlier, studying electromechanical engineering opens up so many lucrative career opportunities. You can work in literally any sector that uses electrical and mechanical devices, including:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Manufacturing
- Power generation
- Architectural firms
- Electrical component manufacturing
- Scientific research
Final thoughts
Choosing between electrical and electromechanical engineering is not a challenge, as long as you have the correct information at your disposal.
Both degree programs are great for creative students who have a passion for electricity, electronics, electromagnetism, and mechanical systems.