Simple Guide to Engineering
This guide is meant for school leavers but may be relevant to current undergraduate students as well. Feel free to post any comments or questions here.

Who should study engineering?
If your first question is any of the following:

- Which is the highest paying engineering field?
- Which is the best engineering field to study?
- I like engineering but I hate math and I am not interested in a dynamic, ever changing environment
- I can’t even be bothered to Google the main branches of engineering so I’ll just post in the forum asking people about what is [insert] engineering subject

So, if your question is any of the above, don’t bother going into engineering. You’re much suited at something else. This may seem harsh but for yours and the futures’ sake, it is better if you don’t go into engineering.

The above aside, it is not always easy, especially for school leavers to perfectly pinpoint their interest in engineering be in mechanical, electrical etc. But if you have the following trait:

- You like taking things apart, i.e. you like to understand how things work etc
- You find solving a problem exciting and you can spend hours trying to solve a problem
- You enjoy learning, you always try to learn about new things and are always curious
- You have an interest in science based subjects, like math, physics etc
- You like getting hands on and wouldn’t mind getting your hands dirty

These are some signs that engineering might just be right for you although bear in mind there are other field of study that requires some of the same traits.

Which engineering subject should I go for?
It is usually not easy for you to be absolutely certain about what you want to do at this stage. Congratulations and good for you if you know what you want to do, so go for it.

If you don’t know, then you will have to start speaking to course consultants/seniors and look deep within yourself. Do you find mechanical parts, i.e. cars, moving parts fascinating? Do you find electronics interesting? These are some of the things you can explore.

Alternatively, after finishing school you will almost certainly have some free time at hand. Try getting work in a local small size firm, people might be willing to hire you if you don’t mind too much about the pay and would be more than happy to plunge into and get your hands dirty. I found a hint of my interest by working in a contractor firm as an errand boy during holiday.

Next Step
Once you have a rough idea of which field you like, a personal suggestion is always to avoid plunging too deep into it too quickly, especially if it is a specialised field.

What you can do, is start at the core engineering courses, e.g. E&E, mechanical, civil etc as a lot of times for degree level studies, you can branch into a more specialised area once you have completed your degree.

Starting at a core subject is much better than a specialised subject as throughout your course, there is a very good chance that your interest may change, and it’s not a good idea if you’re locked into a specialised subject at this stage.

I know some may *think* they are absolutely certain that is what they want to do, but my advice is still to start with a core course. You may take a slightly longer route by starting at core course, e.g. you spend an extra year. On the other hand, if you start off with a specialised course and decide to change later, you would have wasted a lot more time and effort.

Lastly, with a core engineering course, it would be easier for you to branch into other areas, even after you have started working.

Final Step
After you’ve made up your mind, go out and talk to people, especially your seniors. They may shed some new light on your decision. Also, speak to various course consultants in the university, for the sake of your money, they will try their best to help you (which is also a good reminder to speak to a few people, just like you wouldn’t trust the decision of one doctor alone, especially if you need to spend RM200,000 to follow their advice).

Frequently asked questions about engineering
I am interested in cars, buildings and robotics, what should I do?
First off, be aware that these are generic interests. A lot of people enjoy eating and food but not everyone is interested in how the food is produced etc. So keep that in mind.

Secondly, you can have more than one interest, but you can’t have more than one career at one time. Also, hold on to something or fall in everything. Think hard which is the one you want.

Oil & Gas/Nanotechnology/Renewable energy etc is really popular now and well paid, and I have some interest in it, so can I go for this?
Of course you can if that is what you like to do. However, if your decision is swayed by the amount of money you’ll make, then do so at your own peril.

Don’t forget it’ll take you four years to graduate, by that time anything could have happened and robots might have replaced all engineers out there, who knows? If you go down this route, you’ll end up with a degree in something you only have a vague interest in and no one would hire you. Good luck.

Alternatively, you might end up with something that you like and are passionate about and no one would hire you. I’m sure it’s clear which one gives you a better chance.

Should I go for Masters?
Yes, it is becoming the norm nowadays and my view is that it will become the new ‘degree’ in the future, i.e. the minimum education threshold before people employ you. Don’t forget Chindia is churning out tonnes of competent graduates each year, you’ll need all the advantage you can get.

I like [insert] engineering course, but I heard jobs are not available nowadays?
It’s true there are jobs out there which have been replaced because of new technology etc. This applies not just in engineering but in other dynamic careers.

As long as you like what you do and are good at what you do, your skills will be sought after and you can always carry your problem solving skills into another area. The real danger is when you graduate with a course that you don’t like.

This post has been edited by Geminist: Jan 31 2010, 05:20 AM

All,

1) Google "MBTI Personality Test".

Take the test.

If you are one of those NT type, you probably suitable for engineering. 50+% of engineers are NT type.

If you are NF, it is probably okay too. 25+% or so is NF type.

In general, very few people with SP personality type like Engineering.

If you are SJ, engineering is probably NOT for you.

2) If you are SMART but you do not LOVE engineering, please do something else. You probably make more money doing something else. To be good engineer, you have to spend 20 to 30 extra unpaid hours beside your working hour to keep up with the technology. The ROI is NO GOOD if you just think about money. If you LOVE engineering, those 20 to 30 extra hours is a lot of fun. You won't mind.

3) Engineer prefer dealing with machine than people.

4) Engineer can spend hours and days working on a problem. And, they think this is FUN!!!

5) Some of the problems that I work on has NO ANSWER or I do not even know how to start. I LOVE the challenge!!!

6) Engineer like to solve problem. In young age, they probably play games that require a lot of thinking like chess, checker, monopoly and so on.. They like solving puzzles.

Dreamer

P.S.: A BAD doctor can ONLY kill one person at a time. A BAD engineer can kill many more. If you do not want to be GOOD engineer, do something else.

This post has been edited by dreamer101: Jan 31 2010, 06:07 AM

I chose Engineering for the mere interest I have had in me since a child. Never looked back with my decision tho I feel you'll take time to fit in a job that really utilizes your Engineering skills...

i'm kinda interested in this engineering disiplin but i duno which field i should go into, i like automotive and computer as well. any advice? and is the course offered in TARC okay?

I guess the staffs in lowyat.net are taking a step in the right direction since many engineering related topics are encountered in these past weeks.
I would like to suggest that someone can do a brief introduction to his/her engineering course e.g mechanical,civil and etc, to help fellow lowyat.net members to decide their engineering stream.
Anyway i hope this topic will be pin.

I am happy to help out on Mechanical section.
Will edit this post once I have more free time.

hmm, if u like automotive and computer... mechatronics will be an option for u though...

like Xai-V-iaX.. i too had interest in engineering since a child... and now I am one

engineer in what field?

Folks,

Do not specialize at undergraduate level.

Go either with Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering.

You can do automotive and computer with either those 2 degrees.

But, if you do mechatronics, you shut yourself off from many other traditional ME and EE areas. Plus, you enjoy very little advantage against ME and EE in either automotive or computer.

You have a lot to lose and very little to gain.

If you want to do mechatronic, do it at the master degree level.

Dreamer

I'm currently studying engineering in Monash, and it was my 1st year and in total theres 8 units in a year i failed 4. I'm not sure if it's the distraction around me or is it me who is not suitable to take engineering. I Love maths, that's the reason i went into engineering. If i love maths, i LIKE physics. what else should i do beside engineering? And if i decide to stay in engineering.. what field do you all recommend?

really some help here.. as Monash ENG is a very expensive course = (

Itaideska,

<<i failed 4. I'm not sure if it's the distraction around me or is it me who is not suitable to take engineering.>>

Come on. Let's be HONEST here.

It is VERY SIMPLE. This is ENGINEERING. You EITHER understand what is taught in the class or you don't. If you UNDERSTAND what is taught in the class, how could you fail???

So, you DO NOT UNDERSTAND what is taught in the class. Why??

Did you try to LEARN what you do not understand or you give up??

So, what is REALLY going on here??

It was EITHER intelligence aka you are NOT smart enough. Or, you give up trying to understand the material.

Dreamer

P.S.: Once upon a time, I got an C in a class. It was MODERN PHYSIC aka QUANTUM MECHANIC. I was HAPPY to get an C because I was NOT smart enough to really understand all those relativity stuff.

P.S.2: The second C that I got is mechanic because the professor INSIST that we memorized all formulas. I did not have the time to memorize all formula

This post has been edited by dreamer101: Feb 1 2010, 11:13 AM

true, thats what the staff at TARC told me.

Thanks Dreamer, I know what's my problem now. What you just posted really made me things over and over again.

This post has been edited by Itaideska: Feb 1 2010, 08:10 PM

Such a nice thread this is and well im taking EE in kampar Utar currently. And I find no regrets in studying engineering course. This post will guide some new engineering students definitely...

Regards

Someone HAS to pin up this amazing thread

Anyway, as a few posts have already mentioned the importance of doing mechanical/electrical before specialising, may I ask if chemical/civil ENG share the same advantages? Are there any postgrad courses available for these two fields?

Thanks heaps =)

I don think I can earn much as a mechanical graduate engineer.

ahcheap,

Great!!! Do not be engineer. We need less "Pretend" engineer.

If you are in IT for the money, you will be disappointed.

Dreamer

Okay....i'm going to U...i'm thinking of automotive engineering...is this course good?...Will it has future....or should i take mechanical engineering(as what DREAMER say...dun specialize at undergraduate)?

Just graduated as Mechanical Engineering, thinking of finding a job while applying for Masters postgrad studies.

Do people usually speciallise their field during masters? izzit advisible to go for the acadamic or research route?

Both courses are almost the same at the first two years. You can start off at mechanical first and switch to automotive later.

Go for Masters if you can. If there is something that you like, then yes, else you can get Masters like MSc in Engineering.

Both routes are the same, but depends whether you can find a good research. I would suggest going for academic for your Masters as you would have opportunities to do research in the future for your PhD if you decide to pursue it.

I seriously doubt if I'm viable in engineering because:

I dont like hands-on staff, but that's not an excuse to shun all of the science courses.
I do like all the questions solving...on paperwork.
But I find that I dont have the 'think outside a box' mindset of my engineering friends.

Seems I'll make the worst of engineer out of me.

can i ask if i am not taking physics or chemistry in SPM. can i still take engineering? i am actually interested in mechanical engineering.

yes u can, as long as u have maths. because in your degree, u will be learning the basics again. but of course its better if u pick up physics or chemistry in ur foudation/pre-Us before going into mechanical engineering

wjune,

If you are NOT taking physic and chemistry, how do you KNOW that you are interested in ENGINEERING??

Dreamer

Hey,
Im a SPM leaver and I plan to take my A levels on the next intake ( express ). I've placed mechanical engineering as the first choice and business the second . Should i take maths + advance maths + chem + physics or maths + chem + physics + econs? Will advance maths be a much help for me when i take my degree later on? Thanks

If you confirm taking mechanical then i suggest you drop chem and take add/further maths instead.
Btw are you taking more subjects because you're planning to apply for scholarship? If not i think 3 subjects is more than good enough, but no problem doing more if you can cope with it.
Where do you plan to study for your engineering degree? e.g UK, Australia or local?

This post has been edited by december88: Feb 4 2010, 02:09 PM

AFAIK , many colleges dont offer further maths as the 3rd subject. Hence, I have to take the third subject ,making further maths the fourth. Btw,how is further maths compared to additional maths in form 5? I know its a very subjective question to ask , but is it really THAT hard? I got A for mod maths and B for add maths for trials..Besides, im taking the express intake and I dont think i can cope with too many subjects and im planning to do local ( monash ) / overseas if I can ace all the subjects and get a schollarship Opinions?

think of the difficulties you have between modern maths -> ad maths.

similarly;

ad maths -> stpm/A lvls science stream maths
stpm math -> further maths.

so around 2 jumps up in difficulties level.

another way of putting it, when you master stpm maths, ad maths to you would be piece of cake.

further maths is another level up.

I did further maths(FM) for A level. If you're good in add maths (SPM) then FM would be bearable at least.
Since you're taking mechanical engineering then i suggest you take a go for mechanics in FM.
I did my FM under Edexcel board and the hardest core was definitely Further Pure Maths 2 and Mechanics 3(M3).
I did well for both cores and if you're planning the Aussie route by taking FM then 1st year and 2nd year engineering maths would be a tad easy for you also helps for Statics and Dynamics(last year half of the class in my uni failed the course).
You do not have to take FM to do engineering. Alternatively you can do a half A-Level aka AS levels only for FM.
If you're planning for scholarship then go for 4 although 3 is more than good but it is up to you, beside you can drop 1 subject after your 1st exam period if you can't cope with it.
So my suggestion
3 subjects combo - Maths,Physics, [Further Maths or Economics]
4 subject combo - Maths, Physics,Further Maths and Economics.

p/s: one exception for FM was that there was no real focus on algebra but instead it was hard hitting with calculus. 1st year uni maths for me was divided into two, algebra and calculus.

Ok thanks for all the advice given. Im planning to take A levels from Edexcel board cuz its offering modular examination system Hence, KBU might be a choice for me since its near to my house. Any critiques or comments about this college? ( off topic )

I did A-levels with subject of Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Further Math. The FM back then is more difficult. The new FM syllabus is vry easy now, compared to the old syllabus. i suggest u take four subjects, for scholarship purposes. since ur taking Edexcel, u can retake papers if u think u didnt score high enough. KBU college's A-level has plenty of tips just before exams, and they are usually trustable. During my exams, i always had sources leaking from KBU college, not telling u to fully rely on it though!!

tumpang here ya (perhaps they'll clean this pinned thread later on)

i'm looking for reference books for further maths, any recommendations?
how should i go about it besides using mark schemes as guides?

i've finished my a-level, college didn't offer FM, i figure i better start smtg before i enter uni, dun wan to lose to those who took FM =P

need some opinion..
im a diploma student in electrical engineering (power)..
22 yr old..
i'll graduate this sem..

do i need to continue my study (degree)?..
what are other opportunity i hv beside continue my study in degree?..

i love physics and maths.

i like computer, music, explaining and analysing things, design, calculation, problem solving. I do have very wide range of interest.

But i'm quite sure about things I don't seem to have interest at:
automobiles, eletronic/eletrical stuffs, robots or building.
i don't think i'll be enjoying dealing with machines/robots practically.

i'm sorry i cant explain what's in my mind clearly. tat's why i m here asking, because i'm feeling quite blur about myself.

for example, when i think about building, i would feel myself more towards interior design.

I would like to look for something which combine both science and art in engineering course (or even communication/dealing with people - like those in business)... which is what? any idea? =(

This post has been edited by FinFin: Feb 7 2010, 03:35 PM

where u took ur E&E course?

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Added on February 7, 2010, 6:39 pmin E&E course offered in TARC okay? if i wan to enrol there, what i must know so that i dun get cheated or not recognised by professionals.

This post has been edited by deShinyDevil: Feb 7 2010, 06:39 PM

@FinFin, im somehow have the same interests, dilemma and issue with you haah! could anyone give some thoughts here?

If u want to get more for starting salary ( 300-400 bucks) then u can get degree
It's wiser to get dgree 1st.

thx all..

For mechanical or automotive engineering, at any supply chain of the industry, let's say design or manufacturing, needs to be comfortable dealing with metal and plastic makers.

In actual working environment, normally a project will only consist of 1 or 2 mechanical or automotive engineer in a given project. Other than having good academic knowledge, working with metal/plastic makers will be a good part of it.

@FinFin and @scholy same dilemma here too. =(
i'm interested in maths and physics,i like understanding,analyzing and problem solving rather than memorizing facts. this kinda points to engineering right?
tho i'm not sure if i'll enjoy a career as an engineer? so i would really love to hear ur thoughts bout this...

This post has been edited by yixuany: Feb 10 2010, 12:24 AM

Hi folks...

I a doing Electrical and Electronic Engineering in the final year final sem (3 more months to graduation)

feel free to ask me anything in EE and i will try my bes to help out..

nice to meet all the (current/future) engineers

where will u graduate from? i have a problem about the BEM qualification thing here.

what the most reliable engineering field eh?

HI deShinyDevil

I actually studing my final sem in KBU coll..

what is the thing that troubles you regarding the BEM?

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Added on February 11, 2010, 2:16 amreliable as in???



This post has been edited by nanogen: Feb 11 2010, 02:16 AM

zim_civil,

If you are asking this kind of question, stay away from engineering. You should not be an engineer.

Dreamer

i definitely agree with u =D

uh, first i wanted to enrol in TARC at E&E, but thru the members in TARC thread, they said TARC E&E course is not accredited or qualified by BEM. so it make me a little bit concerns. any advice? thnx

Ok just a little advice if you want career guidance in engineering please state something you like or attracts you or pique's your interest.

Common traits such as like maths,physics, like solving problem etc etc... don't help us or you.

One thing I learned from engineering is that you gotta love to learn...even stuff that you hate and look at it positively as extra knowledge.

If you think engineers don't rake in money and the taught of after i spend XXX ammount of money for something I love and cant afford living expenses in the future think again;
1)If you like your work, you excel in it,then you rise = money doing something you love
2)If you lucky enough to know which field of engineering can rake in the good bucks and dont mind sacrifices it is possible for you to be earning comfortably, hint*ex:O&G *
3)Good designers earn a lot if their product is the next it

Also I would recommend watching TED talks on youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/user/tedtalksdirector?blend=1&ob=4

If you are doing EE, i dont think the accreditation of BEM is that important (relatively) compared to civil eng.
The most important accreditation you should be paying attention is MQA. I have heard of EE graduates from tarc still manage to find job in malaysia as well as singapore.

The qualification of BEM is for the professional status only such as CEng (charted Engineer) and if you are not aiming for CEng that it should not concern you.
Since most of the EE engineers in the market do not have the status and yet still surviving.

In addition, most of the EE course in the private colleges (especially twinning with UK university) is not accredited by BEM either because they only offer 3 years honour degree.
(BEM requirement needs 4 years of degree studies)

To fulfill this requirement, some uk uni come out with EE course know as MEng which is a 4 years degree course.
(MEng is Masters in Engineering but it is considered as undergraduate studies, not post grad).

So it really depends on how heavy you weight the accreditation from BEM.

I personally dont really care about it actually, so do my seniors.

(pls correct me if i m wrong in this matter)

oic. thnx for ur opinion.

Hi everyone I just obtained my STPM results yesterday, i get a A- for my physics and PA respectively and B+ for my

math and chemistry respectively. Im thinking of venture into Aerospace Engineering. I do have interest in Maths and

Physic since my secondary school. I think is because of i did better in science subjects. Im wondering am i suitable for

this field??? Anybody taking aerospace engineering degree out there? can gimme some of your view??????/

This post has been edited by blazexak: Feb 26 2010, 05:27 PM

this is true. The IR title doesnt make much difference, unless you really wanted it, but to be frank, only in civil eng matters most, as you'll need an IR to sign off the project, like the master plan of a whole housing estate( correct me if i'm wrong, but thats more or less the whole idea) while for EE, even if you're a designer, the title Professional engineer doesnt mean anything, to be frank out of my 4 years in EE field(MFG field), i only saw one engineer bears an IR title, and this guy is in SMT.

(Sorry for the abbre up there). MFG Field= factory, SMT= ( surface mount tech , go google)

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Added on February 26, 2010, 4:02 pmEngineering is good, tough, everyyear about mathematics. if you suck in maths, you need to spend more time every year in studying it, but no worries, you can make it. anyone from 4-10 A in SPM can handle it, and you can find a job, and you can even find a job in non engineering field.

You can go Banking, IT, finance, or whatever field you wish ( other than medicine,pharmacy) this is some advantage la, but spent like 100k in a 5 years course, this is a little benefit that we get

some background of me, Local Private uni, EE, 4 years working in EE industry.

pay ok lo. but , nothing fancy. working hour, you're an engineer, so they expect the best of out you.

Just like doctor, you dont complain long working hour ( depends on which company, really)

they expect the best out of you, if you love to complain, well, i wonder how you finish the engineering course.

and now, engineering field is booming again in the northern part, job is never a problem, just where you wanted it, and to be frank, first job is the hardest, after that, no problem.

Just make sure where you really wanted to start your career, if its singapore, keep trying, dun give up just because you sit in the house jobless for 3 months, so you give in for a job in kl or pg.

Engineering ,you'll get a job sooner or later, but sooner doesnt mean its better. Right place and right career is the most important thing.

First year salary less than 3k, but look out for travel opportunity and training, after a few years, your pay will increase very fast.

Annual increment is not bad too, roughly 10%

This post has been edited by stinger82: Feb 26 2010, 04:02 PM

What do you want to be after you finished your degree?

This post has been edited by Geminist: Feb 26 2010, 09:09 PM

if i want to enroll in tarc in electronic engineering, any comment from u? and what is meant by IR title?

I am is this person.

- You like taking things apart, i.e. you like to understand how things work etc.
I open my things, radio, laptop, electric guitar and put them back together just for the sake to see what's inside.

- You find solving a problem exciting and you can spend hours trying to solve a problem.
Yes, I like CONAN especially.

- You enjoy learning, you always try to learn about new things and are always curious.
Yes, new subject is C++ and I am very interested in it.

- You have an interest in science based subjects, like math, physics etc
Yes, I love physics, electric and electronic.

- You like getting hands on and wouldn’t mind getting your hands dirty
Don't understand.

and

- I like engineering but I hate math and I am not interested in a dynamic, ever changing environment
I DON'T LIKE ENGINEERING MATH! I don't like to learn it, and I don't want to do the homework! Because of that I almost fail this subject! If I was forced to study I can pass with flying colors, meaning it's not my intellectual was challenge, but because I LAZE(HATE) to learn it.

Ironicly, I like commerce math where something about money makes me

- I can’t even be bothered to Google the main branches of engineering so I’ll just post in the forum asking people about what is [insert] engineering subject
All I know I am in Civil and Construction Engineering... But I want to be an architect... am I in the right path?

Anyone?

tarc is not bad, but nowadays, they go for utar/ private uni, why specific reason you go for tarc? financial kind? to be frank, uni is more like a short cut, and i heard rumors had it that tarc is tougher than other uni/colleges

IR= title given to Professional Engineer ( IR= engineer in french = Ingénieur )

if you're into EE, IR isnt relevent, but if you're in civil, IR title helps a lot(lots and lots of $).

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Added on February 27, 2010, 9:59 ampretty good, do you love planes or fighter? that would be more motivated goal

but defense industry in msia is pretty limited and race bias, but after you graduated u can try for SG ( hence the brain drain )

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Added on February 27, 2010, 10:08 amhem, seems like every post on this topic, forgot to mention one thing.

no matter how much you love to solve problem, make robot love maths, love physics. You need to study real hard in the 4/5 years course.

Every year one subject of engineering maths, but, no big deal, just study hard. Anyway hard work pays

but the title engineer sounds good in the ears of in-laws though

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Added on February 27, 2010, 10:15 amwell , your interest shows you're suitable to study. But no matter where you go, you need to memorize stuff. Can you imagine a doctor checking internet or books upon your diagnosis? Its just like studying SPm, but a little bit harder.

Engineer is a job, just like a sales person, a computer fixing guy. BUt, with a lot more responsibility.

Your technician works 7-4, so he can leaves at 4pm no matter what happens. but you need to stand there fix it until 6am in the morning ( happened to me) and no complain and comparing.

Can you stand stress? Will you snap easily?

But to be frank, the ability to work until pressure, is the key to excel, no matter where you go.

Choose the one you love, and love the one you chosen. But engineering is very flexible, you can always change your career after you graduate they said engineering is one of the toughest, this i dunno : )

This post has been edited by stinger82: Feb 27 2010, 10:15 AM

maybe i can finish my diploma in tarc then transfer to do my degree in utar since tarc only have until adv. diploma. and another thing is qualification by board of engineers malaysia (bem), is it impoartant to make sure the course i study accredited by bem?

I'm interested in civil engineering. Can anyone tell me more about it and maybe share some experience? thanks a lot.

Aerospace engineering is quite a good subject to study because your 'advance knowledge' in aerodynamics will allow you to be hired by car/aero/defense/design companies-Im not sure but maybe shipbuilding companies also.

Currently Malaysia has a growing aerospace industry, cant say how long will that last but the demand is there for the time being.

hi,

yea, you can do that, but make sure your diploma ( maybe 2 years) will make more sense in uni , i mean, if you study 2 years of diploma in Tarc, and Utar requires you to continue engineering at second year, then you rugi one year.

To be frank, its quite important to make sure the course you study are accredited by BEM, but if you plan to work in other country, obviously they recognize your external degree rather than local uni degree. But for peace of mind, you need to make sure of the accreditation to work locally, like those MNC.

But, why dont you call Intel HR, and then tell them you're from which course, which UK uni, ( from Tarc courses for example), and ask them if they recognize it? easier right? ^^

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Added on March 2, 2010, 6:19 pmi have a fren graduated in CE, work in site lo, under sun. hot . possible to open their own firm. interesting career.

This post has been edited by stinger82: Mar 2 2010, 06:19 PM

Mind tell me more bout how an civil engineer may qualified to open his own firm? and how long it takes to become an IR?

can anybody briefly explain what is manufacturing engineer? thx..

One question i want to ask about engineering. Let say if u take an engineering course at UTar which is not accredited by Board of Engineers Malaysia, what are the disadvantages?

i tot utar is accredited by board of engineers malaysia? correct me if im wrong.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing_engineering

You just need to spend five minutes to get an answer for your question.

At first, I thought about taking pharmacy...However, after I went to IMU open day and half a mini tour on pharmacy learning place....It seems I gonna do the same routine everyday in the lab .Then I start to notice that I hate lab work ...

Then I start to thought about Engineering.So, I wen to take career test in counseling centre. But I found out my 'Realistic' is terrible....<--not suit for engineering, that what the counselor say. The test show me I show go for 'Law' but my English and memorizing skills is terrible >.<.

But then, I go ask my physic teacher,she used to be working in mechanical engineering field. She said that you don't really need to use hand to do. Just use your brain to think to solve the problem. This enlighten me to pursue mechanical engineering.

Do u guys really think I should go for it?

My AS grade : math A Physic A Chem A Bio B

xShinji,

Read the first 3 pages of this thread to get an idea whether you are suitable for engineering. If you are TOO LAZY to do this, you are DEFINITELY not suitable for engineering.

Dreamer

sry >.> ....just want to confirm my future career.(NTU application time closed soon)Since I actually thought never thought on engineering field b4(Influence by family to take medicine field)

Read up about the whole thread. Din't know that MechanicalEng has so much advantage. I guess I just need to set up a resolve.

Hai!!!!
I am a STPM leaver!!!

Have anyone heard of biomedical engineering???

I need some comments about this field for future???
Is it will be a good course to study in Malaysia???

what is the difference betwen electrical, electronic and electrical & electronic engineering? i see most of the employer looking for electrical engineering degree holder rather than electronic engineering degree holder. what are the pros and cons of these courses? thnx

I'm interested in materials engineering. Can anyone tell me more about it and maybe share some experience? thanks a lot.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Materials_engineering


Well, I'm not a materials engineer, but one of my classes this sem is a materials engineering course. what im learning about is basically a lot about the structures of materials on different scales, and how properties are affected by different factors, such as rate of cooling and such. personally, not exactly my cup of tea, the materials part. reminded me a bit about chemistry minus the reactions.

love to know too. and please, don't give me some wiki links, want some personal experience and opinions please.
thanks.

Want something that initiates your fun to engineering?

http://www.dyson.co.uk/

this company already in malaysia for more than 10 years and going strong. Currently they are hiring.

http://my.jobstreet.com/jobs/2010/3/d/10/992112.htm?fr=J

search more for dyson product in google. And who says normal engineer cannot make money? if you experienced 3-4 year, can go to 4-5K. and of course this is electrical company.You can get more if you go to Offshore and alot more.

PM me if you interested and give your resume. (haha..i make advertisement here-but still it's related)


*don't you like the new ideas and make it real?
**sorry to say,engineer is born to make things real.

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Added on March 13, 2010, 2:22 am1)NO problem. Not all companies are care wether you certificates are accredited or not.
2) Problem arise when you appy for IR, or goverment sector..then this is serious matter.

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Added on March 13, 2010, 2:37 amSince no one answering al the questions, then i like to answer,please free to add, or shoot if you want..haha..i answer what i can. For sure, there alot of people out there can answer, but i am the one who writing, so just add any points.

1) I'm interested in materials engineering. Can anyone tell me more about it and maybe share some experience? thanks a lot.

Material engineering more to determine material, characteristic and properties for all material. Hopefully, you will study and propose the best material for using in specific condition. Eg, what is the material for you car bumper? why? can it change to other materials? why? it keep u going bebeh

2)what is the difference betwen electrical, electronic and electrical & electronic engineering? i see most of the employer looking for electrical engineering degree holder rather than electronic engineering degree holder. what are the pros and cons of these courses? thnx

electrical-general,high power current
electronic- for electronic and samll current such TV, radio

Pro-wether you take electrical or electronic, you taking a specific courses, better take both so you can work at both areas.

Seriously, that the only surface infor i can give, hey electrical engineer answer this please!

3) Have anyone heard of biomedical engineering??? I need some comments about this field for future???
Is it will be a good course to study in Malaysia???

Again, this is very specific course. But still, part of the study (maybe 3 out of 5 years ) contain same content as other electrical engineering.
They just added up with some courses specific with medical compliances.
Good course? Hmm..right now ,not a very high chances for vacancies, but since this is rare, you can get alot with this certificates if you working at the right place-example, philip medial. Never heard of it? google.

4)Mind tell me more bout how an civil engineer may qualified to open his own firm? and how long it takes to become an IR?
-to be qualified open own firm-no problem. registered then open a company loo
-how long to become IR-this is the best part.
you need approximately 3 years. Start from registration and then monitored for 2 year with requirement to attend some courses by IEM.
-I think this topic has been discussed in lowyat. Check!



ok..any question? google before you asked.
Thanks

This post has been edited by zict: Mar 13 2010, 02:37 AM

u said it is better to study electrical and electronic engineering rather than electrical or electronic engineering alone? i heard ppl said it is better to study a specified course becuase if u study a combined course like mechatronic engineering, u r actually studying mechnical and electronic engineering together with a same amount of time if u study a specified course. as a result u only learn 50% of each topic. is the same concept apply to electrical and electronic engineering? correct me if im wrong.
another thing is, if i study electronic engineering in utar which is accredited by the BEM, after i graduate in utar i have to register with bem only then im qualified by bem or take exam or non of above?

UTAR is accredited by BEM. FYI, all professional courses like engineer, must be accredited by BEM or u can't practice engineering in Malaysia.
http://www.bem.org.my/v3/listofaccreditedprogrammes.html >>> see UTAR

For Zict reply, I think he meant JPA, if u want to work for government, ur courses must be accredited by JPA. Do check their website to see your programme is accredited or not.

hi all sifus here, just got my SPM results few days ago and I got A- for physics, B for chemistry and B+ for additional maths. the question is, do you think I could handle the challenges in studying engineering? my parents afraid that I can't survive with the maths thingy in engineering. i really love playing with computer, engine and all those techno things so pls advise. thanks

ya, im afraid i cant handle the maths or physics too.

What kind of engineering are you planning to study?
If you're worried about your maths then i suggest you take a general pre-u qualification(A Level or SAM and etcs) and see your options there if you can handle the physics and the maths part of pre-u, pay particular attention to calculus. Heaps of them in engineering.

emm..
i asked my Electrical engr about this, so this is her answer.

Study Electronic and Electrical engineering is better than study specific engineering alone because
-you can cover much more areas.
-Even though you cover more areas ,the subject you are covering are only surface for the added majoring. But you'll have more advantages compared to specific engineer alone.
-i give u one simple situation.
position -process engineer
candidates 1- electrical engineering
candidates 2 - mechatronic (electrical+mechanical)

if both the candidates are good in term of pointer of something,candidates B are likely to be chosen because, he have more advantages. No need to explain more for mechanical stuff for process as he already know during study.
(but still subjected o situation, position, industri and bla bla )

also if electrical engineering and electrical instrument engineering as examples. U'll get more advantages compared to them.

but u see my point isn'it?

Other engineers, do you agree with me? spill out your points.

i take electronic engineering in utar i still have to choose like a major and minor course?

I had an interest in Mechanical Engineering. I had in mind to do my Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at Inti College. Anyone had any comments on whether is it good to do my Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at Inti Subang?

erm...just a question here, im taking AUSMAT and maybe engineering in the future, wondering if its necessary to take up specialist maths.
Is ordinary maths(NOT fundamental) enough to take up engineering? example : mechatronic, civil (No EE)

although im sure most people will recommend me specialist maths.
Just asking if normal maths will do

This post has been edited by dopeycheese: Mar 17 2010, 12:05 AM

well for one thing spec math are usually a pre-requisite for taking an engineering degree so I would assume you need it ^^" You might not be able to enroll in some engineering degrees without spec maths in year 12.

I suggest you take it, although if you don't do it you can still do engineering in Australia.
Some unis in Australia might ask the students to do a course related to specialist maths in uni to prepare them for uni's maths the next semester.
Thus you might have to do more courses and also do summer school in order to be ready for 2nd year engineering with the required maths's requisite.

sory but what is electrical engineering(medical)

For some questions asked here, the answer or at least part of it can be found by spending 5 minutes on Google.

Asking a generic question only reflects your lack of enthusiasm for the subject and shows you can't be bothered. Therefore, please, try doing some background research before asking a question.

hey, i just submitted my application to MMU. the course i put as my first choice was BEng Electronics majoring in Multimedia cos i have interest in IT as well as music. so I think this course can provide good opportunities for me in the future. do u know much about the standards of this course? is it good? i'm also considering a similar course in UCTI.
any college good in mechatronics? that would be my backup plan..
thanks!

Does this advice apply for Biomedical Engineering too? As far as I am concerned, Biomedical Engineering (BME) is simply engineering applied onto human biology and vice versa. It's like using Mechanical or Electrical or Electronic Engineering to do what people in Medicine do : treating humans and maintaining their health, right?

Does that mean it's also too early for me if I choose BME for my undergraduate course? (after my pre-U anyway)
Even from the wikipedia article about this course ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomedical_Engineering ), they mentioned that most professionals in this field possess postgraduate qualifications. Then, why do they even have this course at undergraduate level? Why do they offer automotive and computer engineering courses for undergraduates?



By the way, where can I really join discussions on Bio-related Engineering courses? (other examples than BME areEnvironmental Engineering and Biological Engineering)
Most forums and articles focus on typical engineering disciplines like mechanical, electrical and civil engineering..





To briefly describe my interests, I like many things. To narrow them down, my mind simply decided to hate certain things, like business and politics. I look forward to studying only a science-based course.
It just happens that I like Physics, and I'm always ahead in Mathematics (Modern or Additional), and gained a good interest in Biology after attending a tuition class for almost a year. I don't really fancy Chemistry though (too much new ABC's).
I want to use my ability of mastering several subjects to good, and I thought BME is just the right choice. (I get to apply my Physics, Maths, Biology, Chemistry and even English knowledge, right? Not Literature though =( )





... advice? Thanks in advance :3

freezit4,

<<Then, why do they even have this course at undergraduate level? Why do they offer automotive and computer engineering courses for >>

Because people are STUPID ENOUGH to believe that they can SPECIALIZE at undergraduate level and enjoy some kind of advantage. This is called MARKETING.

Just because somebody offer something, it does not mean you have to buy it.

It is USEFUL and GOOD for them to sell. It does not mean it is GOOD for you to study.

<< To briefly describe my interests, I like many things. To narrow them down, my mind simply decided to hate certain things, like business and politics. I look forward to studying only a science-based course.
It just happens that I like Physics, and I'm always ahead in Mathematics (Modern or Additional), and gained a good interest in Biology after attending a tuition class for almost a year. I don't really fancy Chemistry though (too much new ABC's).
I want to use my ability of mastering several subjects to good, and I thought BME is just the right choice. (I get to apply my Physics, Maths, Biology, Chemistry and even English knowledge, right? Not Literature though =( )
... advice? Thanks in advance :3>>

How many pages in this thread have you READ?? Read those pages and ask yourself whether you FIT the profile of a good engineer.

Dreamer

All. It just happens that I like the concept of engineering, and it just happens that I like other concepts too. I like how my actions result in a desired, previously imagined effect, but as a result I like human psychology too.

My mind is funny. Self-conflict occurs everytime. My ego is stopping me from taking something everyone else is, like Mechanical Engineering, like Medicine. BME sounds just- rare.
And in a more positive note, since not many people are talking about it anyway, I thought I might be the one who'll make them do in the future.



I've gone through the posts on how an engineer thinks and behaves, and was quite happy to find out I do have those qualities.
Really, if anyone were to ask me what to be, I'd sincerely answer "Engineer". Then it goes, "of what kind?".
Well, I do prefer mechanics to electric and electronics, but I'm confident I can do any form of physics-related problem as long as I'm sufficiently trained.
Then I go "BME" and they'll be "whaa?" and "you won't get a job here" and I'd be "then I'll go work at vacant mamak outlets until I get 'em".

But now I have you sayin' I have been fooled into thinking specialising at undergraduate level is possible
But now I have another reason to hate business. But also another reason to get involved in it.



Well, thanks though.


p/s : If anyone asks me to take up Medicine, I won't, simply because I'm not interested.