Engineering is comprised of the principles of mathematics and science. These principles are applied to create, manufacture, and sustain structures, systems, materials, and processes which solve real-world problems and greatly benefits society. Engineering is a broad discipline in which a student has various areas of specializations to choose from. However, the top five areas of expertise in engineering are mechanical engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, and electrical engineering.
Students who want to pursue a career in engineering should possess effective problem-solving skills since solving problems is essentially what engineers do. Engineers are versed in defining an issue or dilemma and its pertinent constraints such as time, budget, etc...Read More
Engineers must then devise a solution which meets these time and budget constraints. Engineers with a master’s or Ph.D. degree in engineering and years of experience in the field are also able to secure positions such as project manager, in which they supervise a team of engineers.
Engineers have a positive impact on society and people’s daily lives. Materials (such as smartphones or life-saving medical equipment), roads and bridges, and buildings, all owe their existence to engineers. Due to this vast discipline, an engineering graduate has a plethora of areas to specialize or work in. This includes not only the engineering field, but also in law, business, design, medicine, or with the government. A student with a background in engineering is well-educated and has strong analytical and problem-solving skills which, as seen here, are applicable to numerous professions.
Engineering Degree Levels Available
Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (BSc Eng, BESc, BSE, BASc)The bachelor’s degree in engineering program provides students with a strong foundation in math, science, and technology while assisting in the development of interpersonal skills. This four-year program includes courses in design, math, science, engineering science, and other complementary studies. During this program, students choose from a number of subjects to specialize in such architecture, chemical engineering, civil engineering, or mechanical engineering. Positions in the work force available for students with a bachelor’s degree in engineering include pollution control specialist, structural design consultant, municipal services engineer, supply chain analyst, and economic analyst.
Master’s Degree in Engineering (MEng, MTech, M.Sc.Eng)The master’s degree in engineering curriculum includes laboratory work, lectures, coursework, research, and examinations. At this point in their academic career, students will have chosen an area of specialization in which to focus on throughout their program. The MEng is typically a two-year program and is considered a terminal degree in the engineering field.
Doctor of Engineering (DEng)Students enrolled in the doctoral program in engineering must first decide on a research topic and supervisor to work with, successfully pass the qualifying examination and the oral examination, complete coursework listed on the candidacy form, and submit a dissertation. Among obtaining employment in upper-level positions in engineering, a student with a DEng may secure a faculty position at a college or university.
Admission RequirementsAlthough various colleges and universities may vary slightly, students can expect fairly standard admission requirements when applying to obtain a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Successful completion of high school or an academic equivalent (such as a GED) is required along with high school transcripts displaying grades obtained in completed courses. SAT or ACT test scores are almost always required as well. If a student fulfills all of these requirements, then an application form from the college or university must be completed and submitted along with an application fee, which of course varies depending on the institution.
Tuition and AccreditationA bachelor’s degree in engineering’s tuition fees may vary between $28 000 to $100 000 in total. A master’s degree in engineering’s tuition fees may vary between $20 000 to $75 000 in total. A doctoral degree in engineering’s tuition fees may vary between $20 000 to $30 000 annually for three to six years.
Colleges and universities which offer a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a doctoral degree in engineering must be aligned with ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering) standards. Most employers only hire students who graduated from an ABET-accredited institution. EAC (Engineering Accreditation Commission) is a commission under ABET which undertakes specialized accreditation.
Annual Salary for Different Occupations in EngineeringAn engineering graduate’s salary is based on various factors which include (but are not limited to) their level of education, level of experience, and their field of specialization. Earnings may vary drastically from person to person. However, here are a few of the median annual earnings for the most common professions in the engineering field:
. Civil engineers $76 000
. Electrical engineers $83 000
. Environmental engineers $77 000
. Biomedical engineers $78 860
. Nuclear engineers $96 910
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