Career Information for a Degree in Engineering
Engineering degree programs include extensive coursework in math and science. These programs prepare students to specialize in a variety of engineering disciplines, including civil, mechanical, industrial and electrical engineering.
Career Information for an Engineering Degree
Most entry-level engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree, which may take four or more years to complete. Students may consider programs that have earned approval by ABET, Inc., formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. According to ABET, graduating from an accredited program may be required or preferred by licensing boards, graduate schools and employers (www.abet.org). Many programs require students to complete prerequisites in math and science, such as calculus, chemistry and physics, in addition to applied science courses like statics. These courses, along with many of the general education requirements, are often completed in the first two years of a program.
In the final two years, students take engineering courses that vary according to their major. For example, mechanical engineering students take courses in machine systems, while electrical engineering students may explore topics in circuits and electrical principles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some schools offer 5- or 6-year cooperative programs that alternate between classroom study and work (www.bls.gov).
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers design and maintain large structures. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, these professionals design bridges, airports and energy systems (www.asce.org). Many concentrations are offered in civil engineering including construction, structural and water resources. Some positions require individuals to organize a budget or be knowledgeable about building codes and government regulations.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
The BLS indicates that employment opportunities for civil engineers were expected to increase 24% from 2008-2018, due to the need to make improvements in U.S. infrastructure. Employment projections may vary by concentration and specialization. In May 2010, the BLS reported that the median annual salary of a civil engineer was $77,560.
Mechanical Engineers
The BLS indicates that mechanical engineers specialize in designing and building many forms of machinery, such as tools, robotics and air-conditioning systems. Besides creating new products, they also make improvements to the functionality of existing devices. Mechanical engineers work in many industries, including automotive, defense and energy.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
The BLS states that job opportunities for mechanical engineers were expected to increase six percent from 2008-2018, although they may find work in other engineering positions. The decline of the manufacturing industry is a factor for the low job growth projections. In May 2010, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for a mechanical engineer was $78,160 annually.
Industrial Engineers
According to the Institute of Industrial Engineers, industrial engineering is the design and evaluation of systems that include people and equipment (www.iienet2.org). These professionals may perform research on an existing system to find areas for improvement. Industrial engineers work in many different industries, such as distribution and manufacturing. The BLS states that many industrial engineers go on to become managers because their work involves issues like employee evaluation and financial considerations.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
The BLS indicates that the employment of industrial engineers was expected to increase 14% from 2008-2018, due to the need for companies to increase productivity and cut costs. Many industrial engineers work in the manufacturing sector. In May 2010, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for an industrial engineer was $76,100, while many of the highest paying industries were in the energy field.
Electrical Engineers
Electrical engineering is the branch that focuses on generating and transmitting electricity. The BLS indicates that electrical engineers often design electrical equipment for use in areas like power generation and communications. Other electrical engineers design the electrical systems for products like computers and navigation systems. These professionals must always be concerned with the danger posed by electricity and ensure that a product or system is safe.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
Due to the outsourcing of jobs, the BLS states that employment opportunities for electrical engineers were expected to increase by only two percent from 2008-2018. Emerging technologies and the need for research and development were anticipated to offset this decrease slightly. In May 2010, the BLS reported that the median salary for an electrical engineer was $84,540 annually, while the top ten percent earned over $128,000.
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