Careers in Engineering
What Is the Engineering Field?
The engineering field focuses on applying scientific and mathematical principles to design and improve structures, systems, products and technologies that address practical challenges.(See disclaimer 1)Careers in engineering span specialties like civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical and computer engineering, and are found in industries such as manufacturing, construction, technology and government.(See disclaimer 1) Engineers work on projects related to infrastructure, energy, transportation, healthcare and innovation, playing an essential role in economic growth and technological advancement.(See disclaimer 1)
Median annual wage for architecture and engineering occupations in May 2024(See disclaimer 2)
Explore Careers in Engineering
Below, you’ll find examples of the many career paths available in this field.
Discover More on Engineering Careers
Get informed and inspired by exploring the paths within engineering careers. Learn about education options and specializations in the field to help you build a future in the industry.
Explore the world of STEM degrees and see how science, technology, engineering and mathematics drive innovation. Discover how these rapidly growing fields can help you enhance your problem-solving skills and pursue future-focused careers.
Consider the possibilities of an engineering degree and see how it can lead to specialized roles across a wide range of industries. Learn how different engineering paths allow you to apply your strengths, tackle challenges and shape solutions that impact the world.
Compare mechanical engineering and mechanical engineering technology to see which path best fits your interests and strengths. Find out how theory-driven design or hands-on application can shape your education and future career in engineering.
Take the next step toward an engineering career by gaining the knowledge, skills and momentum needed to make an impact in this field.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. (2025). Field of Degree: Engineering. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved January 2026.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Architecture and Engineering Occupations as of May 2024, retrieved January 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as architecture or engineering occupations, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.