Which engineering course has the highest demand? | Answering a FAQ

Engineering is one of the most sought-after options in India for a bachelor’s degree after school. To ascertain which stream of engineering has the ‘highest demand’ can often be very subjective; as it largely depends on the job market scenario, current skill needs, technological advancements at that point of time and much more. Moreover, every student should choose their stream as per their own aspirations, passion and capabilities. 

Other than the top-tier engineering colleges like the IITs, NIT, BITS and the others, there are thousands of Tier-2 and Tier-3 engineering colleges in every state catering to aspiring engineers.  

Let’s now look at some of the main engineering streams, what they offer, and who they’re ideal for: 

Mechanical Engineering 

This is one of the most broad, expansive streams, also known as the “mother” of all engineering disciplines. Mechanical Engineering finds application in a wide array of industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, and much more.  

In Mechanical Engineering, you will learn subjects like Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Material Science, Control Systems, etc. 

This stream is ideal for aspiring engineers with a liking for problem-solving, with a passion for physics and mathematics. Moreover, if you are passionate about building industrial products and cutting-edge technologies and solutions, Mechanical Engineering would be perfect for you.  

As a Mechanical Engineer, you can pursue rewarding career paths in Design Engineering, R&D Engineering, Product Development, as well as up-and-coming industries such as renewable energy and robotics. 

Computer Science Engineering 

As a close second, Computer Science is a critical, in-demand discipline, in light of the rapid digital transformation across the globe. It finds application in a number of industries such as software development, data analytics, AI, cybersecurity and much more. 

In Computer Science, you will learn subjects like Artificial Intelligence, Data Structures & Algorithms, Machine Learning, Software Development, etc. 

CS is the right stream for you if you have a knack for coding, love to build digital products and solutions and are passionate about applying technology to solve real-world problems. 

As a CS Engineer, you can pursue lucrative careers as an IT Consultant, Cybersecurity Analyst, Full-Stack Web Developer and many other such exciting paths. 

Electrical & Electronics Engineering 

This discipline deals with the fascinating world of power systems, with applications in a wide array of industries, both core and non-core.  

You will learn key subjects such as Embedded Systems, Digital Electronics, Circuit Theory, Power Systems, Microprocessors and much more. 

If you’re passionate about electronic devices and how they work, this stream offers you myriad opportunities in putting your ideas into action. 

Electrical & Electronics Engineers can pursue rewarding careers in telecommunications, electronics manufacturing, power generation, etc.   

Civil Engineering 

This discipline is critical for infrastructure development, and to bring in the workforce for construction, urban development and environmental engineering.  

As a student in this field, you will be learning subjects like Structural Engineering, High-Rise Building Design, BIM, Environmental Engineering and much more.  

If you are passionate about design, architecture, infrastructure projects and innovating in these fields, Civil Engineering would be a perfect fit for you. 

Civil Engineers can pursue rewarding career opportunities as Drafters, BIM Modelers, Structural Engineers, Site Engineers, Project Managers, etc., contributing to a variety of projects like buildings, highways, bridges, etc. 

Chemical Engineering 

This stream of engineering deals with chemistry principles that drive industries such as chemical production, fuel and pharmaceuticals. 

Some noteworthy subjects you will learn are Chemical Reaction Engineering, Thermodynamics, Fluid Dynamics, Biotechnology and Process Control. 

If you are passionate about chemistry and aspire to work in industries that work on materials and processes, Chemical Engineering would be a great fit for you.  

As a Chemical Engineer, you can establish rewarding careers in petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, environmental engineering and many more such exciting avenues 

Information Technology (IT) 

This stream is often confused with Computer Science, as they are closely related. IT deals with management of technology and data solutions for businesses.  

Information Technology comprises exciting subjects like Database Management, Cloud Computing, Networking, Software Development and much more. 

If you’re keen on exploring the business side of tech and are passionate about managing scalable digital solutions, IT is surely a great fit for you. 

IT Engineers can pursue excellent careers in Database Administration, Cybersecurity, Network Management etc.  

Recommended skills 

We have covered the various chief disciplines and top in-demand engineering courses available for engineers, and how they all offer diverse scope and potential to pursue careers in.  

Let us now look at some recommended skills for career paths that might interest you:  

• To pursue Core Engineering (Mechanical Electrical/Civil), it is beneficial to learn CAD software, simulation tools (ANSYS, MATLAB) as well as sharpen your problem-solving capabilities 
• To land IT/software roles, it is recommended that you learn programming languages like Python and Java, along with skills like database management, web development, and cloud computing. 
• To specialise in emerging fields like AI and Data Science, you may consider acquiring skills in machine learning, automation management, AI frameworks etc. 
• For Emerging Fields (AI, Robotics, Data Science): Machine learning, data analytics, automation tools, and knowledge of AI frameworks. 

You can take up any stream that interests you and graduate with a degree. 

However, holding a degree and being job-ready aren’t necessarily the same.  

In order to kickstart your career in the most effective way possible, it is crucial for you to acquire relevant skills that align with your career goals and aspirations. The right skills, coupled with hands-on experience through projects and proficiency in software tools can immensely boost your chances of securing a job in the competitive market -- especially in future demanding engineering fields requiring talent. 

To plan your next career move, check out Skill-Lync's career-oriented upskilling programs and give your career the boost it needs!