Engineering is a diverse, successful and highly applicable path of study for a career. It is also, however, highly challenging, and students that choose this major must devote a lot of their time towards studying the specifics of their discipline. Prospective engineers must be proficient in science, but especially the physical sciences such as physics, as well as higher level mathematics such as statistics and calculus. This field also requires modern skills and advanced computer science skills so that future engineers can program and direct machines to build things. It is one thing that draws students to engineering careers and interests.

It is hard for many co-eds to pay their way through school, and especially with a major such as this one, there is little time outside of school to work to pay for school. Therefore, scholarships are a viable and highly available option for many students. It is worth the time it takes to apply to multiple scholarships so that the chances of getting at least one are increased.

There are all kinds of academic scholarships available, whether for the specific field within engineering, such as civil, chemical or mechanical engineering. There are also cultural scholarships to promote this field for minorities, women, or non traditional students. Take a look at some of the scholarships available.

HP Scholars Program - This scholarship is an opportunity for a student specifically interested in the engineering field. It is a four-year internship, with support exceeding averaging around $3,000 a year for four years. While this is not a full scholarship, it may help to alleviate some of the financial burden of tuition.

Space Grant Consortium Scholarships - A network of colleges and universities across the nation participate in expanding American students' understanding and participation in NASA aeronautic and space programs. Fellowships and scholarships are available for students in every state participating in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) areas of study.

Lucille B. Kaufman Women's Scholarship - $1,500 awarded each year to two female undergraduate students studying engineering.

Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers Undergraduate Scholarship - $2,000 annually available to a number of junior and senior undergraduate students in engineering or related fields.

Plastic Pioneers Scholarships - Each year, this scholarship awards $1,500 to anywhere from 30 to 40 undergrad student applicants pursuing engineering and related fields.

Alwin B. Newton Scholarship - $3,000 awarded yearly to one engineering student.

SWE Scholarships - financial assistance provided to female scholars studying engineering, technology, or computer science. Scholarships and fellowships range from $1,000 to $20,000 each. In 2011, SWE scholarship distributions amounted to a total of $540,000.

Twin Tiers Section Scholarship - A Local Society of Women Engineers award for encouraging women to pursue a career in engineering. Applicants must live or attend school in New York or Pennsylvania. Awarded as a lump sum. Given to female high school senior students about to attend university.