Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Online
Is an Engineering Degree for You?
Engineering is the practice of using science and mathematics to develop inventive solutions to everyday problems. In engineering programs, students study a variety of scientific concepts, computer technology, mathematic principles, and practical design theories. They also learn about problem analysis, research techniques, prototype building, and laboratory testing. Bachelor's degrees in engineering vary according to concentrations; however, many of these awarded degrees are in a specific engineering discipline, like civil, mechanical, chemical, industrial, or electrical. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, general employment within the field of engineering is projected to increase 11% by 2018.
Advice for Earning Your Engineering Degree Online
An online engineering degree is a convenient alternative to attending classes on a college campus. Online students can get the same degree as on-campus students and still have the time to balance work and family demands. In addition, online engineering majors are held to the same standards as traditional students because they are doing the same rigorous academic program. The most important thing you can do before enrolling in a distance engineering program is make sure that your degree program nd online college are accredited by an agency that the U.S. Department of Education recognizes. Accredited online engineering degrees are typically more likely to be viewed positively in the job market and be respected by employers than unaccredited degrees.
Required Courses
Each engineering curriculum varies based on the chosen specialty, but all students will be required to take courses in mathematics and physical and life sciences. Most engineering majors will take physics, chemistry and calculus before or in conjunction with their introductory engineering courses. Some common sophomore and upperclassmen classes include statics, thermodynamics, and materials. Once students choose an engineering specialty, they'll start taking classes that are specific to their future field.
Common Career Paths
Engineering students will have many unique and exciting career opportunities waiting for them after graduation. Most graduates will find work within their engineering specialty, but they aren't limited to do just that. Some might obtain basic research positions, or advance to technical specialist or project management positions to oversee a staff or team of engineers and technicians. Here are some of the common career paths engineering students can take:
- Engineer
Engineers examine technical problems and develop solutions that are economical and appropriate for consumer needs. They design and develop new products using computers to create and analyze designs, generate specifications, monitor product quality, and control process efficiency. They also are involved in production where they supervise factory processes, test products for quality assurance, and identify the causes of failed components. Job responsibilities often vary depending on the area of engineering one choose to specialize in, such as chemical, civil, computer, electrical, industrial, or mechanical. But regardless of specialty, duties tend to revolve around problem-solving, research, design, production, manufacturing, and testing.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of engineers is expected to grow by 11% by 2018, particularly in biomedical, civil, environmental, and petroleum engineering. In May 2008 the median annual salaries of engineers ranged from $68,730 to $108,020.
- Engineering Technician
Engineering technicians use engineering principles to find solutions to technical problems within research and development. They often assist with research where they perform duties such as setting up equipment, conducting experiments, calculating data, and recording results. Some technicians work in quality control inspecting products and evaluating processes, while others work in manufacturing and help design and produce products. Job responsibilities often vary depending on the area of engineering technicians choose to specialize in, most commonly electronic, industrial, mechanical, civil, and aerospace. These types of technicians often work closely with engineers, scientists, and other technicians in work environments like offices, laboratories, and manufacturing or industrial plants.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of these types of technicians is projected to increase 5% by 2018, although job opportunities will vary according to engineering specialty. Engineering specialties that are expected to have the best opportunities for technicians include civil, environmental, and industrial. PayScale.com reported that in the United States, the annual salary of engineering technicians ranged from $39,053 to $75,327, depending on experience.
- Engineering Manager
Engineering managers plan and coordinate engineering activities concerning research, design, and production. They are responsible for identifying technical goals within an organization, developing project plans, and supervising staff including scientists, engineers, and technicians. Job duties are typically related to the staff assignments, project budget proposals, identification of technical problems, supervision of activities, and establishment of administrative procedures. These types of managers often work with other managers in the financial, marketing, and production departments, as well as various contractors and suppliers in order to obtain equipment and supplies.
Much of an engineering manager's work day is spent in an office, although it is not uncommon for them to also be found in research laboratories or industrial plants. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of these types of managers is projected to increase by 8% by 2018, with the most job opportunities within growing fields of engineering such as environmental and biomedical. In May 2008, the median annual salary for engineering managers was $115,270.
