Mechanical or Electrical for Alternative Energy?

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>I'm currently headed down the electrical engineering path, but have a growing interest in mechanical engineering. I know the alternative energy industry includes almost all disciplines, but I was wondering which one is most in demand or dictates the design process more. Also, what kind of work do mechanical engineers typically do? Designing robots, cars, nanotechnology.. is it all as exciting/rewarding as it sounds?</p>

<p>Lastly, I plan to go into grad school. What options does an BS in either electrical or mechanical offer? Could I do mechanical for undergrad and electrical for grad (or vice versa)? On that note, could I go into civil or aerospace for grad as well?</p>

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<p>Depends what type of alternative energy. Wind, tidal, geothermal and combustion aspects of hydrogen and bio all lean towards ME. Solar leans towards EE, but the research problems are actually mostly Chem and Chem E problems, as are the issues with fuel cells and biofuel production. You can probably go from ME and EE to any of the other engineering disciplines for grad school, though of course, less easily than going to the same discipline. If you're really interested, try to get in contact with the grad professor you want to work under and find out what he's looking for. Undergrad research in that area would also be a huge plus.</p>