Is mechanical engineering mostly mathematics and physics?
No. Mechanical engineering uses mathematics and physics as important foundations, but it is not limited to them. Depending on the program, students may also study materials, machine design, thermal and fluid engineering, control, manufacturing, programming, experiments, and practical exercises, applying knowledge to think about, build, and evaluate machines. The balance of mathematics, physics, and other subjects varies by university and program.
Key points
- Mathematics and physics provide foundations for areas such as mechanics and design.
- Materials, design, control, manufacturing, programming, experiments, and practical work are also part of the field.
- As students advance, they may do more work applying foundational knowledge to real machines and engineering problems.
Things to check
- Specific subjects and the relative emphasis on mathematics and physics vary by university and program, so check the official curriculum of the program you are considering.