Become a Physical Design Engineer
Physical design engineers engage in complex tasks during their work including research, analysis, design and testing toward the goal of developing and creating new products. Physical design engineers can specialize in one of numerous areas, depending on personal interests, educational background and expertise. Examples of a specialized area of focus include mechanical and electrical engineering. Basic requirements to become a physical design engineer generally include a bachelor's degree. Depending on the region in which you reside, a position as a physical design engineer generally requires a license if you will be providing your services to the public.
Steps
- Research the field of physical design engineering to learn more about it to see if it is the right career for you. Those considering entering this field must have strong aptitudes in critical thinking, reasoning and analysis as well as skills in working with advanced technologies.
- Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses relative to your present knowledge in the field and your level of education. Physical design engineers work with computers in the production and analysis of designs, conducting simulation tests and generating complex specifications.
- Make an initial assessment in determining a future educational program to train as a physical design engineer. If you are currently a high school student you must include specific coursework in your curriculum in preparation for college level training.
- Include high school classes in algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus as well as science courses covering chemistry and physics. Additional coursework to round out your education while in high school should incorporate social studies, humanities and English.
- Research educational programs at colleges and universities offering degree programs in physical design engineering if you have already received your high school diploma. It is important to select training programs from schools that are accredited.
- Contact several professional engineering associations to get more information about becoming a physical design engineer. Most of these organizations can provide you with additional resources that can be especially helpful if you are considering specializing in a particular area of physical design engineering.
- Apply for membership to one or more professional engineering associations. Membership will give you the opportunity to network with others already working in the engineering field through online discussion boards and blogs. You will be able to learn more about the profession, ask questions and get answers.
- Visit the campuses of colleges and universities that offer educational programs focusing on the field of physical design engineering. Meet with and talk to guidance counselors to review admission requirements. Some schools require that applicants take specific entry examinations depending on the region where you live.
- Narrow your choices down to a select few physical design engineering training programs. Remember to choose a college or university that is accredited. Depending on admission requirements and openings, you may want to apply to more than one school
- Plan out your curriculum to include a focused specialty during your studies. As an example, do you want to be a mechanical engineer or an electrical engineer or specialize in a different area?
- Consider an internship program during your college training. You will not only learn more about physical design engineering but you will gain valuable knowledge and skills as well.
