Do engineering students need English for technical manuals and documentation?
In many cases, English is useful for engineering students because textbooks, technical manuals, standards, and software documentation may be written in English. However, the level expected for classes or graduation requirements, and the amount of English-language material, vary by university, department, and course. Some subjects can also be studied using translations or Japanese materials.
Key points
- English may be needed to read the latest information or original sources in technical fields.
- For reading, understanding technical terms, diagrams, and tables can be as important as general English ability.
- The importance of English depends on the field, courses, and research topic.
Things to check
- Check the university department’s official information for specific course content, English-course policies, and graduation requirements.