Degree Requirements
Most engineering careers require at least a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in an engineering discipline accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Entry-level positions typically require a B.S. degree, while some specialized fields or research roles may require a Master of Science (M.S.) or Doctorate (Ph.D.).
Common degree types include:
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering
ABET accreditation ensures programs meet quality standards for technical education and is often required for licensure.
Recommended Majors
Choosing the right major depends on your engineering interests and career goals. Below are common majors aligned with popular engineering fields:
| Engineering Field | Recommended Major(s) |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering |
| Civil Engineering | Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering |
| Electrical Engineering | Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering |
| Computer Engineering | Computer Engineering, Software Engineering |
| Chemical Engineering | Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering |
Professional Certifications
Certifications can enhance credibility and career advancement. The most recognized engineering certification is the Professional Engineer (PE) license, awarded by state licensing boards in the U.S. after passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and gaining relevant work experience (typically 4 years).
Other notable certifications include:
- Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) - Issued by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
- Project Management Professional (PMP) - Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), valuable for engineers managing projects
- Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) - Provided by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE)
Obtaining these certifications often results in higher salary potential; for example, PE licensed engineers earn a median salary around $100,000 annually compared to $80,000 for non-licensed engineers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).
Continuing Education
Engineering is a rapidly evolving field requiring ongoing education to keep skills current. Continuing education options include:
- Workshops and seminars offered by professional organizations such as IEEE and ASME
- Technical courses on emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and renewable energy
- Short courses through universities and technical schools
- Employer-sponsored training programs
Many states require licensed engineers to complete continuing education credits for license renewal.
Online Learning Options
Online platforms have made engineering education more accessible. Key options include:
- Coursera – Offers courses and specializations from universities like Stanford and MIT in topics such as Data Structures, Control Systems, and Robotics
- edX – Provides MicroMasters programs in Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
- Udacity – Nanodegree programs targeting software engineering and machine learning
- MIT OpenCourseWare – Free access to undergraduate and graduate level engineering courses
Many online courses offer certificates and can be a cost-effective way to supplement your education or learn new skills.
Apprenticeship/Internship
Practical experience through internships or apprenticeships is critical for engineering students and recent graduates. Top employers offering internships include:
- General Electric (GE)
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- Siemens
- Intel
Internships provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities, often leading to full-time job offers. Apprenticeships, though less common in engineering than in trades, are available in manufacturing and industrial settings.
Graduate Programs
Pursuing a graduate degree can open doors to advanced research, leadership roles, and specialized fields like aerospace or biomedical engineering. Common options include:
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Engineering – Focus on technical depth and research
- Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) – Typically more practice-oriented and course-based
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – For careers in academia and advanced R&D
Top graduate programs include MIT, Stanford University, University of California Berkeley, and Georgia Tech.
Cost and ROI
Engineering degrees vary widely in cost depending on institution and location. Below is an estimated cost and return on investment (ROI) overview:
| Degree Level | Average Tuition Cost (4 years) | Median Starting Salary | ROI Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | $40,000 - $160,000 | $70,000 - $75,000 | 4-7 years |
| Master's Degree | $20,000 - $60,000 | $90,000 - $110,000 | 3-5 years |
Engineering careers generally offer strong ROI due to high demand and competitive salaries. Licensure and certifications further improve earning potential.