Which branch of engineering should I take?

Engineering is the dream career for most students. The job prospects are good
and there is a constant demand for them. With the rapid strides that
technology is making, newer branches of engineering are evolving. Students are
often confused because they do not know which branch is the best one for
them. Yes, it is a career that is highly satisfying and challenging at the same
time, but basic awareness about the different branches of engineering is
essential. Some basic questions regarding a few branches of engineering are dealt with below:

Why is mechanical engineering considered to be the mother of all engineering branches?

• It is the oldest branch of engineering and as the name implies it deals with machines. In simple words, a mechanical engineer will learn how to
  create and operate machines.
• They study basic concepts like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics,
  kinematics, robotics etc and apply this knowledge to design cars,
  aircrafts, manufacturing units in industries etc.
• It is impossible to imagine a life without machines these days. The best
  part is that technology is evolving rapidly. So the scope and growth
  prospects of mechanical engineers are also expanding.

What does a civil engineer do?

• Civil engineers basically have to supervise the buildings that are being constructed.
• They are knowledgeable about designing and planning structures and are good at Maths and Science.
• They are adept at administration and work closely with a skilled labour force. Yes, it is beautiful to look at the Taj Mahal – but the planning,
  management and eventual construction of this beautiful monument was possible due to the technical knowhow of civil engineers.

Who is an environmental engineer?

• While machines have made our lives easier to a great extent, they have
  also added to the pollution levels of the world. An environmental engineer
  ensures that all the residents of a particular area breathe clean air and
  have access to potable water. They take care of safe, effective disposal
  of waste material and thereby keep the pollution levels under control.
• Environmental engineering is a relatively new field compared to other engineering branches. The job prospects are very good especially in chemical, petroleum and mining companies.
• As the population increases, the level of pollution automatically rises.
  Mechanization and industrialization of both the urban and rural sectors contribute to the pollution.
• Therefore, there is a global demand for environmental engineers as they are equipped with specialized knowledge and know how to curb this problem.