There are hundreds of colleges around the country offering bachelor of engineering degrees. If you excel in math and science, enjoy designing and building things, or want to work at the forefront of new technologies, an engineering degree might be the right path for you.
What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree?
At their core, engineers solve problems. Engineering encompasses a number of specialties — civil engineers design structures like roads and bridges, mechanical engineers design new products and materials, industrial engineers improve processes and operations, and computer engineers develop computer systems. Graduates with a bachelors of engineering can find work in many lucrative fields, from mining to government to medical research. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a salary range of $40,000 to $130,000 for engineers in the United States.
What To Look For in an Engineering Degree
The best engineer degrees should involve lots of hands-on, experiential learning. At the undergraduate level, most engineering degrees will involve a number of core modules before allowing you to branch out and choose an area of specialization in later years. All good engineering degrees will have certain elements in common, like an emphasis on math and physics, developing strong computing skills, working on design projects, and gaining practical work experience through internships and co-ops. The highest accreditation for engineering degree programs is from ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Florida | Gainesville, Florida |
| 2 | Arizona State University – Tempe | Tempe, Arizona |
| 3 | Ohio State University – Columbus | Columbus, Ohio |
| 4 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin, Texas |
| 5 | Brigham Young University | Provo, Utah |
We compiled a list of schools around the country that provide engineer programs and ranked the top 30 schools. We used tuition (lowest is best) and enrollment (highest is best) to rank the schools. Check out our rankings below to find the best value engineering degrees in the United States.
The Best 30 Engineering Degree Programs
University of Florida
The University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering offers rigorous and highly regarded degrees from the undergraduate level right up to PhDs. The University of Florida offers bachelor of science degrees in 14 engineering-related fields, including aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and nuclear engineering. Applied and Natural Science, Computing, Engineering, and Engineering Technology programs are accredited by ABET.
School Overview
Arizona State University – Tempe
Arizona State University’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering offer 25 undergraduate programs, including six online engineer degree programs. Accelerated degree programs include an integrated bachelor’s plus master’s degree in 4 or 5 years. Arizona State University is a large research university in a thriving metropolitan area with 60+ engineering student organizations and student professional societies, providing students with extensive undergraduate research opportunities and entrepreneurial opportunities.
School Overview
Ohio State University – Columbus
The College of Engineering at Ohio State University offers 15 major programs that span the breadth of careers within the profession. Available majors include aviation, civil engineering, food, agricultural and biological engineering, and materials science and engineering. All bachelor of engineering students participate in practical research projects in their chosen area of specialization.
School Overview
University of Texas at Austin
University of Texas at Austin’s Cockrell School of Engineering offers 11 engineering majors, including architectural engineering, chemical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, petroleum engineering, and geosystems engineering and hydrogeology. The Cockrell School is committed to ensuring that students have the opportunity to complete their engineering degree in four years and under the best circumstances. Students success initiatives include tutoring opportunities, academic advising, and the Ramshorn Scholars Program.
School Overview
Brigham Young University
The Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering at Brigham Young University offers 10 undergraduate programs accredited by ABET, including construction and facilities management, industrial design, mechanical engineering, and cybersecurity. The mission of Fulton College is to develop men and women of faith, character, and technical ability who will become outstanding leaders throughout the world.
School Overview
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University offers more than 20 graduate and undergraduate degrees through their 15 departments, including biological and agricultural engineering, engineering technology and industrial distribution, nuclear engineering, ocean engineering, and multidisciplinary engineering. Bachelor of engineering students have access to opportunities such as undergraduate research, 48-hour design challenges, and engineering project showcases.
School Overview
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Bachelors of engineering students at the University of Wisconsin — Madison can choose from 12 undergraduate majors. The curriculum and faculty focus on providing students with the technological tools, resources, and knowledge to develop solutions to problems in fields ranging from medicine to energy to manufacturing. In the classroom and in the lab, students study and grow their skills and enrich their academic experience outside of the classroom through opportunities such as international study, field research, internships, laboratory experience, and entrepreneurial opportunities.
School Overview
San Diego State University
The College of Engineering at San Diego State University offers progressive, project-oriented undergraduate degree programs in 7 areas of study plus a minor. Modern laboratory facilities and research-active faculty assure that students are well-prepared to compete in the modern engineering workplace. All bachelors of engineering programs are accredited by ABET. San Diego State University maintains close relationships with San Diego industry that result in extensive partnerships, internships, and placement opportunities for students.
School Overview
University of Arizona
Students at the University of Arizona can earn a bachelor of science in engineering in one of 15 engineering majors, including mining engineering and optical sciences and engineering. At the University of Arizona College of Engineering, voices are diverse, teaching is tied to the real world, and students graduate ready to join a global workforce. Engineer degree students are given opportunities to work with renowned faculty and industry experts tackling some of the world’s most pressing engineering problems.
School Overview
University of Washington
The primary goal of the University of Washington College of Engineering educational programs is to prepare students for a professional career in engineering by providing the technical foundation required for success in industry, government, or academia. Other goals of the College are to instill within its students the highest ethical standards, the capability for lifelong learning, and a curiosity about the world. Bachelor of engineering students can choose from specializations including bioengineering, human-centered design and engineering, and bioresource science and engineering.
School Overview
Iowa State University
Students at Iowa State University can choose from 14 degree specializations, including construction, cybersecurity, and software engineering. The engineering programs at Iowa State University are designed to help students develop a capacity for objective analysis, synthesis, and design to obtain a practical solution. Accelerated and concurrent degree programs are available, allowing engineer degree students to complete a bachelors of engineering in three years, or to complete a bachelor and masters degree concurrently.
School Overview
Michigan State University
The College of Engineering at Michigan State University provides a team-based, systems approach to societal problems and prepares students for a wide range of career options, including those outside engineering. Programs require a strong base in mathematics, computing, and the sciences as the tools of the engineer. The university’s Center for Spartan Engineering provides real-world experiences including cooperative education, engineering internships, and undergraduate research.
School Overview
Oklahoma State University
The College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma State University trains leaders and professionals who innovate, design, and build a resilient and sustainable local, regional, and world economy. Students can choose from 27 undergraduate programs in 11 different fields, including architectural engineering, biosystems engineering, and fire protection and safety engineering technology. Engineer degree programs at Oklahoma State University are accredited by ABET.
School Overview
Rutgers University – New Brunswick
The School of Engineering at Rutgers University — New Brunswick offers 11 majors as well as a unique Explore 10 program that lets students survey all majors before declaring. Bachelors of engineering students at Rutgers University are part of a community that values thinking and creative problem-solving, receiving instruction from prominent faculty in a state-of-the-art learning environment, and learning to apply their knowledge to make the world a better place.
School Overview
Pennsylvania State University
The Bachelor of Science in Engineering provides students with a broad foundation in engineering with specialization in a technically and professionally relevant topic. Students choose between the Multidisciplinary Engineering Design option offered at Abington, Brandywine and Great Valley campuses, Applied Materials option offered at the DuBois campus or the Alternative Energy and Power Generation option offered at the Hazleton campus.
School Overview
University at Buffalo – SUNY
Bachelor of engineering students at the University at Buffalo — SUNY learn to address critical 21st-century issues with world-class faculty, outstanding facilities, and contemporary academic programs. Students choose from 11 majors and 7 minors, as well as combined degree opportunities and micro-credentials. Undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET.
School Overview
University of California – Los Angeles
The Samueli School of Engineering at the University of California — Los Angeles offers students a choice of 10 ABET-accredited majors. UCLA Samueli is known as the birthplace of the internet, and where countless other fields took some of their first steps, including artificial intelligence, reverse osmosis, mobile communications, and human prosthetics.
School Overview
University of Colorado Boulder
The College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado Boulder offers bachelor of engineering programs that emphasize hands-on, active learning and a tradition of research excellence. The university offers 15 specializations including applied mathematics, creative technology and design, and engineering physics. Engineer degree students can personalize their academic experience with activities including building their business and entrepreneurial skills, earning a certificate in a specialization, becoming an undergraduate teacher, and studying abroad.
School Overview
University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science immerses students in a rigorous and innovative curriculum and culture of real-world, experience-based learning. Students can earn a bachelor of science degree in 14 engineering disciplines alongside a one-year transitional Freshman Engineering Project and five-year Accelerated Engineering Degree.
School Overview
Auburn University
Students can earn a bachelor of engineering degree from Auburn University’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering in a choice of 10 programs of study, including aerospace engineering, materials engineering, and wireless engineering. Engineer degrees at Auburn University provide both the technical knowledge and the broad general education necessary to equip engineers for their problem-solving challenges. Centered on mathematics and the physical sciences, the curriculum also stresses the importance of social sciences, humanities, and communication skills.
School Overview
Washington State University
The Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture at Washington State University offers 7 undergraduate majors. A general engineering minor is also available to add an engineering component to majors in other areas. The College of Engineering provides a free tutoring program for undergraduates, while senior design projects created through an industry partnership provide valuable professional interaction and real-world experience.
School Overview
Virginia Tech
The College of Engineering at Virginia Tech hosts 15 degree-granting majors for undergraduates. The College emphasizes high impact experiential learning opportunities across all of its bachelors of engineering programs. Students have access to a variety of hands-on activities, including laboratory research, entrepreneurial programs, and internships.
School Overview
Howard University
The College of Engineering and Architecture at Howard University offers bachelor of engineering degrees with a choice of 6 majors. The core values of the college include community and professional services, ethical responsibility, and environmental stewardship. Graduates of Howard University have strong communication skills, with an emphasis on technical writing and interpersonal communication, and are able to design innovative products, processes, and systems.
School Overview
Colorado School of Mines
Bachelor of engineering students at the Colorado School of Mines can choose from 17 undergraduate majors, including applied mathematics and statistics, geophysical engineering, metallurgical and materials engineering, and mining engineering. Colorado School of Mines provides a robust technical education with training in areas such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and ethics.
School Overview
Stanford University
The School of Engineering at Stanford University is home to 10 departmental and 6 interdepartmental major programs, including aeronautics and astronautics, bioengineering, and environmental systems engineering. Blended courses involve interactive learning in addition to traditional lectures, as well as hands-on opportunities for students to take courses in the environments best suited to their learning styles.
School Overview
Northwestern University
The McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University offers a bachelor of science in engineering in 12 areas of study. Northwestern University pioneers the concept of whole-brain engineering, which integrates the elements of left-brain thinking — analysis, logic, synthesis, and math — with the kind of right-brain thinking that fosters intuition, metaphorical thought, and creative problem solving. Each engineering degree program delivers a balanced education through coursework, research, internships, and extra-curricular activities.
School Overview
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers bachelor of engineering courses in 8 majors. Students have access to the MIT Sandbox Innovation Fund Program to fund new ideas, the New Engineering Education Transformation that allows them to immerse themselves in projects that cross disciplinary boundaries while earning a degree in their chosen major, to build using state-of-the-art equipment in the Maker Lodge, and to engage in research alongside faculty.
School Overview
Johns Hopkins University
The Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University offers 13 degree options, including chemical and biomolecular engineering, computer science, and engineering mechanics. Engineer degree students are given the opportunity to engage in multidisciplinary education, conduct research at Johns Hopkins’ schools of medicine and public health, and participate in entrepreneurship and hands-on academic programs incorporating industry partnerships in the curriculum.
School Overview
Olin College of Engineering
Olin College of Engineering offers ABET-accredited degrees in electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, and general engineering. Every student learns about software, electronics, and mechanical systems, and has several chances to work with students from other majors on interdisciplinary projects. Students work on research projects with faculty, pursue independent studies, and have the opportunity to showcase their work at the Olin Expo every semester.
School Overview
California Institute of Technology
The mission of the California Institute of Technology is to expand human knowledge and benefit society through research integrated with education. Bachelor of engineering students start with a core curriculum before choosing from options across the divisions of biology and biological engineering, chemistry and chemical engineering, and engineering and applied science. Students at the California Institute of Technology benefit from having access to world-leading faculty, research, small class sizes, and experiential learning opportunities.
School Overview
Still not sure which engineering degree is right for you? Use our Degree Finder tool to help you decide.
Our Ranking Methodology
To determine how to rank each college, we researched and evaluated each school’s estimated cost of tuition and enrollment rate. We used in-state tuition rates where available. We sorted each school first by the cost of tuition (lower is better) and then by enrollment rate (higher is better), letting each value make up equal portions (50%) of the final rankings.
If you work for one of the schools we ranked and you notice an error in the information we used to rank you, please feel free to contact us and let us know so we can make a correction.
Here’s Everything You Should Know About Engineering Degrees
An engineering course allows students to explore different fields related to this subject. It covers widespread industries and applications through science, technology, and mathematics to create solutions to real problems. An engineering program is designed to make life easy whether the engineering student is pursuing an undergraduate or a master’s degree. However, engineering consists of different fields, and choosing what major in is not easy for students.
In the past, engineering was divided into four branches: Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Civil Engineering with numerous subcategories. Today, this has changed, and the number of engineering degrees offered by various colleges has increased enormously.
Engineering now has six main branches: Geotechnical, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, and Management. Each branch has many subcategories resulting in hundreds of courses in engineering.
The major engineering branches do not encompass everything and hence the need for subfields such as computer science and computer engineering. The list is long, and each of the sub-disciplines comes with its pros and cons. Overall, engineering is an exceptional field and has great opportunities at both graduate and undergraduate levels.
Which Engineering Degrees Are Marketable?
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering degree concentrates on mechanical systems design, including aeronautics, nuclear power, nanotechnology, cooling, and heat. Students who take this degree program develop mechanical solutions to cater to different societal needs. It focuses on structural analysis, thermodynamics, kinematics, and materials science. This engineering degree is the broadest among the many engineering degrees offered by colleges.
Community and Junior Colleges offer mechanical engineering course certificates and associate degree levels. But, it’s also possible to get a bachelor’s degree through a combination of Mechanical and Electrical degree known as mechatronics. Most colleges offer mechanical engineering master’s degrees, and it is ideal for those who want to boost their career in this field.
Subcategories of mechanical engineering include:
- Aerospace engineering
- Biomedical engineering
- Biomechanical engineering
- Automotive engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering students concentrate on energy studies. These engineers develop different technologies to help with the practical application of energies. Energy comes in forms that include natural sources like solar and wind energy, electrical and hydro.
Electrical engineers are experts who design components with electronic equipment, power grids, communication systems, and automobiles. The majority of employers require job applicants to have an electrical engineering degree for some levels, but other positions can be filled with certification or additional licensing.
An undergraduate electrical engineering degree program is readily available in most universities as long as a student qualifies for one. But there are some online options for both undergraduate and graduate levels. Subfields of electrical engineering include:
- Computer engineering
- Electronics engineering
- Mechatronics engineering
- Robotics engineering
- Microelectronic engineering
Civil Engineering
Civil engineering degree is one of the oldest engineering disciplines. It is for students who are fascinated and inspired by the shapes of different structures such as roads, bridges, buildings, and canals. To earn a civil engineering degree, the student takes between 3 and 5 years. This engineering degree is extensive and covers a lot regarding the development of infrastructure. Students cover many subjects, including mathematics, geology, land surveying, structural design, digital modeling, construction management, and environmental issues. Some of the sub-disciplines that students can specialize in are:
- Structural engineering
- Architectural engineering
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering is for students interested in physical science and turning various materials into different usable products. This engineering technology degree deals with the application of chemicals. The chemical reactions are used in multiple ways to solve problems in real life, such as pharmaceuticals, foods, beverages, cleaners, and cosmetics. The best thing about this engineering program is that graduates can have various employment forms. But it is among the most challenging engineering degrees one can study. Like other engineering disciplines, chemical engineering has sub-disciplines that include:
- Environmental engineering
- Material science engineering
- Agricultural engineering
- Paper engineering
- Biotechnology
- Biochemical engineering
Geotechnical Engineering
Geotechnical engineering is similar to civil engineering, only that its primary focus is island topography. Engineering students who are undertaking this course study soils and rocks, giving them an in-depth understanding of environmental issues. Their knowledge helps in construction and reduces the chances of creating structures that can cause future problems. These engineers collect soil and rock samples from a site to determine how stable a settlement is.
To become a qualified geotechnical engineer, one must have a bachelor’s degree in geotechnical engineering or civil engineering. To have a progressive career in this area, a master’s degree comes in handy but must be combined with rich job experience based on a few successful projects.
Students who want to pursue this degree program should have a strong understanding and interest in natural sciences, math, and other related fields. Subfields of geotechnical engineering include:
- Petroleum engineering
- Geological engineering
- Nuclear engineering
- Marine engineering
- Engineering physics
- Photonics engineering
- Nanotechnology engineering
- Mining engineering
- Ceramics engineering
- Metallurgical engineering
- Geomatics engineering
Engineering Management Degree
The engineering management degree program specializes in management in the engineering field. There is a demand for engineers who can manage projects from an engineer’s perspective. This has led to the creation of engineering degrees to impact skills and knowledge needed for management roles.
Students undertaking the engineering management course develop engineering skills, expertise, and knowledge combined with managing businesses’ techniques. Some of the engineers become project managers to ensure large projects are completed successfully. This is essential for civil engineers, electrical engineers, and architectural engineers working on large construction projects.
The title of an engineering management degree is determined by the institution where a student chooses to study. It can be Bachelor Science in Engineering Management, Bachelor of Engineering in Engineering Management, or Bachelor of Science of Engineering in Engineering Management.
The course has sub-fields including:
- Engineering management
- Engineering branch combined with management; for example, Chemical Engineering with management.
Engineering degrees are known to give graduates lucrative careers. It is easy to find opportunities because all engineering degrees are always in high demand. However, there are hundreds of engineering courses, and choosing the best is not easy. Before a student rushes to get one of the engineering degrees, it is a good idea to consider what they enjoy doing.
Engineering is about problem-solving and aims at making life easier. Students should go for a subject that they are naturally interested in to stay motivated because engineering is not one of the simplest subjects.
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is the least one can get to qualify for a job in the industry. But universities offer chances to students to get a master’s or a doctorate’s degree to be eligible for some advanced positions.
Discussed below are some of the engineering technology degree programs that potential students can undertake:
Aerospace or aeronautical engineering focuses on research, development, design, construction, testing, and science technology of aircraft. Students can choose to study aeronautical if they want to deal with deep space conditions and spacecraft. Engineering students who study aeronautical engineering can specialize in aeroelasticity, aerodynamics, avionics, composites analysis, and propulsion.
This engineering course is perfect for:
- Students who like flying machines, their operation, and history. It takes a student who has been following and researching the earliest crafts and is interested in becoming part of the team looking forward to advancing modern jets.
- Students who have an interest in the mechanics of flight machines.
- Students who are intrigued by simulations of aircraft machinery in computers and how they cope in extreme conditions.
Chemical engineering is about using biological and chemical processes leading to the production of useful substances or materials. The engineering degree combines experimental and natural sciences, including physics and chemistry, and life-related sciences such as biochemistry, biology and microbiology, economics, and mathematics. This is the course to get if:
- You have an analytical mindset.
- A student wants to study natural or life science such as chemistry, biology, and many others.
- You are interested in different chemical processes used to produce common items.
Students undertaking chemical engineering can specialize in subfields such as chemical reaction engineering, process engineering, and plant design.
Civil engineering graduates are professionals who develop different infrastructure projects. Most of their projects are extensive, such as the construction of water supply systems or the development of a large nationwide transport system. But it can also be small projects such as single road construction. It is the engineering to get if:
- You find the designing and construction of things interesting
- You have an interest in hydraulics, mechanics, geotechnics, statistical analysis, and material science.
- One enjoys developing their designs, especially using a computer.
A student who chooses to pursue a civil engineering degree can specialize in subcategories such as architectural engineering, structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, hydraulic engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering.
Computer engineering is about designing and prototyping computer software and hardware. It is related to electrical engineering, and the two are merged to create computer science. This is the degree to get if:
- You are interested in computers in areas such as the development of computer software or computer engineering.
- You are interested in science, mathematics, and computers or want to know more about computer operations.
- You are looking forward to producing new systems and products using advanced computer science.
Computer engineering offers specialization similar to those in a computer science course. For example, both degrees allow students to specialize in network security and computer graphics. However, there are specialized computer engineering subjects, including computer architecture, microprocessor or microcontroller systems, and VHDL or hardware description language design.
Electrical engineering is about electrical power application. This degree may look similar to electronics engineering, but the two are different because electrical engineering deals with electrical power production and supply. Electronic engineers deal with small electronic circuits.
An electrical engineering degree program is for someone who:
- Wants to be part of the next technological developments regarding electrical power.
- Is genuinely interested in electrical systems, how they are made, and how to improve them.
- Has a huge interest in knowing how electrical items function
Engineering students interested in electrical engineering can specialize in power generation and distribution, robotic systems, computer systems, communication, and media.
Mechanical engineering is one of the most extensive types of engineering programs. It is also among the oldest degrees and concerns manufacturing, designing, and maintaining various mechanical systems engineering. A student can go for this degree if they:
- Enjoy fiddling with various mechanical devices; aeronautical engineering would be a great choice.
- Have an interest in creating new or innovating designs in areas such as artificial intelligence and energy fields.
- Have an interest in working with interdisciplinary teams looking forward to developing and improving mechanical technologies.
This engineering technology degree is broad and tends to overlap other engineering degrees. However, a student can specialize in mechanical engineering subfields such as transportation systems, robotics, nanotechnology, and combustion.
Engineering management is another interdisciplinary field that is worth considering when looking for an engineering degree to pursue. It is relatively new and was introduced in response to the engineering industry demand. It has management-focused programs for engineers that add business expertise to engineers. It is developed jointly by business and engineering faculties. The best thing is that it can be combined with any engineering degree. The engineering management program is for anyone who:
- Is interested in knowing and learning how to apply engineering in various types of businesses and the challenges with organization and technical terms.
- Wants to get a material position but also apply technical knowledge.
- Wants to be in charge of development, marketing, and supply of products.
Engineering students who decide to pursue this degree can specialize in: management science, engineering mathematics, decision engineering, engineering statistics, business statistics, and operations management.
Online Engineering Degree Programs
Universities are now offering engineering degrees online. The coursework consists mostly of theory because practical studies can only be done on campus. It is possible to enroll in bachelor’s programs and master’s programs online, but students study through reading assignments, writing assignments, and listening to online lectures in both settings. They are then assessed using quizzes and tests.
Computer engineering is the most common online engineering degree. It is not a surprise because it deals with computer-related programs that can be done online. This is due to the availability of many Massive Open Online Courses that ease studying software programming and engineering. Many computer engineers have learned online without any help. But, learning computer concepts through a school gives a student numerous career options.
An electrical engineering degree requires a lot of hands-on practice but can still be taught online. This course focuses on the fundamentals of electric power and how it works. It has a lot of concepts and designs that can be taught online and is, therefore, one of the online degrees for engineering students.
A significant percentage of what is taught online in mechanical engineering is how mechanical robotics, devices, and equipment function together. This online program also consists of design fundamentals and engineering physics that should be considered when creating or making complex operations equipment.
Civil engineering degrees are mostly done on campuses at undergraduate levels, but master’s classes can be done online. Students pursuing Professional Engineer licensure will find online civil engineering programs excellent.
The industrial engineering program seeks to understand, analyze, and solve problems experienced by complex organizations. It may be analyzing a complex process in manufacturing or monitoring ordering and shipping in a transport facility. Only a qualified industrial engineer can do this work, and an online curriculum offers this degree program. The degree offered online equips the graduates with the knowledge and skills to run a business smoothly.
The online program consists of learning operational concepts such as Applied Deterministic Operations Research Models and Applied Stochastic Operations Research Models and regression analyses that help students comprehend the operational efficiency and functionality of a business.
Aerospace engineering has evolved over the years; it is a complex field, but an extremely necessary one. It is a combination of physics and electronics to design solutions and fix them in the aerospace field. Since there is a demand for aerospace engineers, numerous online programs have been created. Like other online engineering degrees, most of the studies done online are theoretical.
What Are the Educational Requirements for An Engineering Degree?
Engineers are invaluable, and they use mathematical and scientific principles based on scientific knowledge to solve different technical problems. If one is looking forward to becoming an engineer, they must meet the engineering education standard to join a college engineering program.
Admission requirements for students looking are different depending on what a school wants. However, a student needs a GPA of 3.0 or more, strong SAT or ACT scores, recommendation letters, and a personal essay must be provided. The student must have a solid science and math background.
To become an engineer, one must have a bachelor’s degree majoring in a subfield that they want to work in. the engineering technology degree must be earned from a reputable university. Students can choose between accredited and unaccredited programs, but the best way to go is with an accredited degree program. Whether it is mechanical engineering, electrical engineering graduate, or any other field, graduates cannot be licensed unless they studied accredited programs.
College coursework differs and is based on the branch of engineering one decides to study. However, in all online mechanical engineering degree programs, students must take advanced math and science courses. They also have to fulfill the curriculum requirements by taking humanities, social sciences, and English classes.
All engineering degree programs require at least a whole semester of fieldwork or internship. This gives students a chance to experience and apply theories learned in class to gain insight and practical skills in their specialization area. The internship also helps engineering students network with engineering professionals, get mentorship, gain some experience, and possibly get employment connections.
Regardless of the engineering degree, one is pursuing, the program requires students to pass several math courses. The student should start taking trigonometry, geometry, biology, chemistry, physics, calculus, and algebra in high school to meet the college’s education standard. Both undergraduate and graduate degrees are based on mathematics and require critical thinking to solve math problems.
What Are the Advantages of Pursuing an Engineering Degree Program?
Engineering jobs have the highest average salary for both starters and experts. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the estimated median annual wage in the engineering field is $91,000. Besides, it is estimated that there will be almost 140,000 job opportunities for engineers in the ten years. An engineering technology course is worth taking despite being so complex.
Before you decide what engineering specialization to concentrate on, you should do some research on general engineering. Get to know the disciplines available and jobs outlook and duties plus salaries. Also, some specializations require a master’s degree, while others are fine with an undergraduate degree. Students need to know all about a specialization before they sign up for a degree program.
Engineering is a complicated subject, and only those interested in math, physics, marine biology, infrastructure, computers, electronics, robots, medicine, and similar fields should consider taking the course. It is even harder to find the best engineering specialization unless a student knows where their interest lies. It is not an easy decision to make, but passion ensures a student performs well and excels in their mechanical engineering or any other program. The worst mistake that someone can make is to choose an engineering degree because it’s lucrative. The interests should be given priority because they also guarantee happiness at work.
Some engineering degrees require a student to have specific strengths. If a student doesn’t have them, it is good, to be honest and move to areas where they can excel. Some specializations mean one can work alone independently and lead their projects without any help. But others allow a group of individuals with similar interests and mindsets to combine efforts.
Also, students must consider what they can do exceptionally. For example, someone who is good with computers and is pursuing a computer engineering degree should specialize in robotic engineers.
Engineers who are already working in the industry are better positioned to advise students on what they specialize in. lecturers or career advisors in colleges can connect students with engineers. These are people who know the duties and demands of an engineering career firsthand and advise students accordingly. They also understand what specialization is useful and give insights on the best courses to take. For example, environmental engineers know what skills the universe needs to prevent further pollution because they are in the field.
Specializing means settling on a career; someone should not be in a rush. The best engineering specialization should be exciting and easy for a student and bring joy as a career.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics says that by 2026, engineering job opportunities are expected to increase by 7% in the US alone. Some engineering degree courses are higher demands than others, such as electrical engineering degree holders. This is due to the embracement of modern engineering technologies across all fields, and they, therefore, require experts to help them work on certain processes.
What Are the Available Job Opportunities for Engineering Degree Graduates?
An engineering degree such as mechanical engineering or electrical engineering has a wide range of career options. Engineers can take up engineering roles and management positions. Some of the job opportunities engineers can get include:
- Biomedical engineer
- Mechanical engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Petroleum engineer
- Materials engineer
- Chemical engineer
- Electronics engineer
As a professional engineer, you can engage in various careers. A professional with engineering education can start a business that includes the following:
- Management consultancy
- Business analyst
- Project management
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Sales role
An engineering undergraduate or master’s degree holder can have a career in various fields. Some are related to engineering educational background while others far from this course. An engineer’s career can take unexpected twists. They include:
- Teaching or lecturing
- Managing a supply chain
- Procurement
- Operation management
- Technical sales
- Technical training
In Summary
Engineering degrees are some of the most marketable courses students can undertake. It also has numerous specialization areas for anyone looking forward to graduating with a master’s or a doctorate. Though settling for an engineering degree program is hard because there are too many, it is possible if a student takes time to research and understand most of the engineering course. Whether one is interested in mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering, students can always look up online for help and identify a course that will give them a well-paying and exciting future job.
Also, engineering degrees are lucrative, and you should apply due diligence when undertaking any major in this field. Before enrolling for any engineering degree from your preferred higher learning institution, ensure that they are offered accredited programs. As an engineering student, you don’t want to make any costly mistakes. You can always confirm with the relevant regulatory organizations to check if your engineering degree meets all the required guidelines. Otherwise, it would be a waste of time and money to complete an engineering degree program and be declared unfit to work in any engineering field.
