Engineering

Learn more about the skills and certifications you need for a career as a computer engineer, optical engineer, electrical engineer, and more.

[Featured image] A civil engineer consults with a construction manager at a job site.

What Does a Civil Engineer Do? (+ How to Become One)

A civil engineer is an engineer who plans and maintains infrastructure projects such as airports, roads, dams, and stormwater drainage. Discover the basics of what your life can look like as a civil engineer.

March 22, 2022

Article

[Featured image] Two systems engineers collaborate in front of a laptop computer.

What Is a Systems Engineer (and How Do I Become One)?

Systems engineers develop, design, and implement engineered systems. Find out more about what this means and how to become a systems engineer with this guide.

March 10, 2022

Article

What Does a Civil Engineer Do? (+ How to Become One)

March 22, 2022

Article

What Is a Systems Engineer (and How Do I Become One)?

Systems engineers develop, design, and implement engineered systems. Find out more about what this means and how to become a systems engineer with this guide.

March 10, 2022

Article

Explore popular engineering courses

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Georgia Institute of Technology

Introduction to Engineering Mechanics

Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Torque (Physics), Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Analysis, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Trigonometry

Status: Free Trial

IBM

Generative AI: Prompt Engineering Basics

Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, ChatGPT, Large Language Modeling, Artificial Intelligence, Technical Writing, Image Analysis

Status: Free Trial

IBM

Introduction to Software Engineering

Skills you'll gain: Software Development Life Cycle, Software Architecture, Development Environment, Software Design, Software Engineering, Software Development Methodologies, Software Design Patterns, Systems Development, Software Development Tools, Program Development, Software Development, Integrated Development Environments, Application Security, Web Development, Cloud Development, Web Applications, Back-End Web Development, Computer Programming, Front-End Web Development, Python Programming

Engineering covers a wide variety of skills and careers. With so many options and opportunities available, it can be tricky to know where to start. On Coursera, you'll find expert resources to support your goals, whether you're just starting or are ready to take the next step in your career. Explore engineering topics, including:

Interested in computer science engineering? Find out more about computer engineering and the essential skills needed for a career in computer science engineering.

Interested in systems engineering? Read about what a systems engineer is, and explore certifications for systems engineers.

Interested in a degree in engineering? Explore the types of engineering degrees and whether a degree in engineering is worth the cost and time.

Ready to start learning? Explore our catalog of computer engineering, software engineering, and environmental engineering courses for beginners and experienced professionals.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary in the US for architecture and engineering occupations, which include electrical engineers, biomedical engineers, civil engineers, and more, was $83,700 as of May 2022 [2]

US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook, Architecture and Engineering Occupations, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/home.htm." Accessed January 29, 2024. ‎

Computer engineering professionals work in research labs, private sectors, and federal, state, and local governments. To become a computer engineer, consider pursuing the specialization or focus area that interests you most. You can start researching engineering jobs by browsing job posts. Even if you aren't yet ready to apply, this exercise can help you understand the differences in responsibilities and pay from industry to industry.‎