How to become an engineer

A report by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on Engineering the UK's Future (January 2025) revealed that 124,000 skilled engineers and technicians are required annually across the UK engineering industry to meet demand. However, current projections show a shortfall of 37,000 to 59,000 workers.

Becoming a chartered engineer

What is a chartered engineer?

• Chartered engineers provide solutions to complex engineering issues using new or existing systems.
• As a qualified engineer, you'll innovate and use your creativity to effect change in your industry, often being accountable for major projects.
• Achieving chartered status can take four to eight years, depending on your educational background, work experience, and the pathway you choose.

What's the difference between CEng and IEng?

Both of these professional UK registrations are globally recognised, but they are different in terms of scope and academic criteria:

• Chartered engineer (CEng) - this is a higher, more strategic award that focuses on complex, high-risk systems and innovation that requires Masters-level knowledge. It's ideal for those interested in consultancy and technical leadership.
• Incorporated engineer (IEng) - with less emphasis on management and responsibility, it's perfect for professionals involved with applying proven techniques and managing operational projects using current technology at Bachelors degree or HND standard.

In addition to the above, there's also the engineering technician (EngTech) designation, viewed as the stepping stone towards achieving IEng status. It's a professional registration for those applying proven techniques and procedures to solve practical engineering problems at a level equivalent to an:

• advanced apprenticeship
• BTEC diploma
• NVQ (Level 4).

How long does it take to become a qualified engineer?

It typically takes from four to eight years after achieving an accredited Bachelors degree to qualify. This is because you'll usually need at least four to five years of relevant professional experience.

While a four-year integrated Masters degree (MEng) is the standard academic route, the total time it takes can reach eight to 12 years, taking into account your:

• degree-level education
• professional development
• competency assessment by a professional body.

Can you become an engineer without maths or physics A‑levels?

Yes, you can still enter the profession without A-levels in Maths or Physics, as other pathways are available, including:

• BTEC diplomas
• foundation years
• T Level courses.

What are the typical routes into engineering careers?

To become a qualified engineer, you'll likely need to go through some or all of the following stages:

1. Explore engineering disciplines and match them to your strengths.
2. Choose an entry route.
3. Build core skills and competencies.
4. Get an accredited qualification from one of the professional bodies below.
5. Study a degree with a year in industry or complete an industrial placement.
6. Start your career with an entry-level role, a graduate scheme, or an apprenticeship.
7. Work towards achieving professional registration.

The best route depends on how you prefer to learn and your current situation, such as through:

• academic learning
• hands‑on training
• earning while you learn
• switching careers later on.

The university pathway would suit those who enjoy theory and lab work, while apprenticeships and work‑based learning are ideal for practical learners or those wanting to bring in a wage right away.

Consider whether to go to university or do an apprenticeship.

Choose an area of engineering

If you haven't already decided on the branch of engineering you'd like to work in, a general engineering degree can provide you with an overview of what's out there.

The main engineering disciplines can be divided into:

• chemical engineering
• civil engineering
• electrical and electronic engineering
• mechanical engineering
• software engineering.

According to the quarterly industry journal, Engineering Designer, most of these areas are in high demand in the UK job market.

They also revealed how many subdivisions of engineering and disciplines related to other sectors are in need of engineers, including:

• building and construction
• cyber security
• energy
• information
• manufacturing
• nuclear
• transport.

Demand was reported to be strongest where skills support essential infrastructure, energy systems and industrial operations, such as in the property and construction sector.

You can also explore 5 exciting careers in engineering.

Once you're working as an engineer, it's advisable to apply for membership with a professional body.

Get relevant engineering work experience

Many engineering degrees include a sandwich year, also known as a year in industry.

Explore the engineering courses available at college and university.

However, if your programme doesn't include this option, it's worth considering a summer internship or an industry work placement.

Talk to your programme leader about this. They may suggest contacting suitable engineering firms, or your university may already have industry links to explore.

Get the lowdown on securing engineering work experience.

Study a Masters degree in engineering

Approved engineering professional qualifications are essential in this field, especially if you want to be awarded CEng status.

If you've worked in engineering since graduating, you may prefer to take a break before undertaking your Masters. Some non-engineering graduates choose to study a conversion course.

Alternatively, there are part-time integrated Masters degrees that will set up your career for achieving qualified status while working in the industry.

For those who haven't studied at university, you could consider one of the following four-year integrated Masters courses:

• MEng Civil Engineering - University of Leeds
• MEng General Engineering - University of Sheffield
• MEng Mechanical Engineering - Bournemouth University
• MEng Mechanical Engineering - The University of Manchester
• MEng Mechanical Engineering - University of Sussex.

What is true is that you'll eventually require:

• an accredited Bachelors degree in engineering or technology
• plus an accredited Masters degree
• or an Engineering Doctorate (EngD)
• or an accredited integrated MEng degree
• or appropriate further learning to Masters level.

Secure a job or an engineering apprenticeship

After graduation, you're under no pressure to continue your studies immediately.

By applying for entry-level graduate jobs or engineering graduate schemes, you can get your career off to a great start.

Some engineering firms may even support you in gaining further professional qualifications.

Engineering jobs and vacancies are advertised online, including specialist press such as The Engineer Jobs.

Many of the 35 professional engineering bodies also advertise vacancies.

Learn more about graduate engineering jobs.

Another option is to consider an engineering apprenticeship. Offered by the biggest names in engineering and local firms, these positions allow you to earn a salary while learning your craft and achieving a relevant qualification.

Build your knowledge and skills

• Innovation and technical insight - you'll need to draw on up‑to‑date knowledge and emerging technologies, such as advanced robotics or artificial intelligence (AI), to develop better ways of working, improve systems, or create entirely new solutions.
• Analytical and technical judgement - engineers are expected to tackle unfamiliar or technically demanding problems by applying sound engineering principles, evaluating options, and making evidence‑based decisions.
• Leading people and projects - the role often involves coordinating teams, overseeing resources and budgets, and ensuring work is delivered safely and effectively.
• Clear and adaptable communication - you must explain complex ideas in ways that suit different audiences, from colleagues and clients to non‑technical stakeholders, while working collaboratively across disciplines.
• Ethical, safe and responsible practice - professional engineers are accountable for acting safely, ethically and sustainably, always considering their environmental impact, public safety, and professional standards.

Read more about the engineering skills you'll need in our overview of the UK's engineering industry.

Join a professional body

While this isn't necessary when looking to land your first graduate job, doing so provides you with access to:

• discussion forums
• networking opportunities
• the latest industry news
• continuing professional development (CPD)
• training events.

These things help graduates enter, develop and specialise in their profession.

What's more, becoming a member of a chartered body is obligatory if you want to be assessed for registration as a chartered engineer (CEng) or incorporated engineer (IEng).

The benefits of being a chartered engineer

According to the Engineering Council, registering as a professional engineer:

• enhances your employability prospects
• increases your earning potential
• proves your professional competence and commitment
• gives you higher self-esteem
• allows you to have a more significant impact on the industry
• provides you with globally recognised credentials.

Indeed, The Engineer's 2025 Salary Survey showed that chartered engineering professionals reported annual salaries of around £65,366, compared to £58,560 for those who weren't professionally registered. These findings were the same across all industry sectors and levels of seniority.

Recognised professional bodies in engineering

• Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) - From introductory to advanced levels, the CIBSE provides membership and a range of training courses to aspiring building service engineers.
• Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) - Offers a range of courses in areas such as personal development and leadership, process safety and sustainability. Training from IChemE is peer-reviewed to ensure best practice is reflected.
• Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) - A registered professional body with the Engineering Council, membership provides access to several professional development courses.
• Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) - The UK's only professional body representing those working in engineering and technological product design.
• Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) - The only professional body that covers all aspects of food technology in the UK.
• IMechE - Offers membership and access to training courses in management and technical subjects.
• Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) - Providing professional accreditation and training courses for structural engineers, IStructE offers student and graduate membership.
• The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) - Offers the IET Advantage Scheme, a membership option that helps recent graduates become CEng or IEng registered.

Find out more

• Read our 6 tips for getting into civil engineering.
• Consider jobs in motorsports.
• Explore opportunities for women in engineering.