Engineering Technology Degree and Certificate Program Information
Though a few programs specific to engineering technology do exist, the subject is most often available in programs related to specific fields, like computer engineering, electrical engineering or mechanical engineering. Programs are most commonly available at the undergraduate level.
Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Technology
Students can learn to help research, design, maintain and sell mechanical products in these 2-3 semester programs. Some programs offer coursework in heating, ventilation and air conditioning as preparation for working with mechanical contractors. Applicants are typically required to have completed high school.
Course Topics
Students gain an understanding of estimating, project management and contracts. Programs offer coursework in:
- Blueprint reading
- Descriptive geometry
- Shop practices
- Computer graphics
- Drafting
Popular Career Options
Graduates from certificate programs can apply their technical skills to a variety of positions in the mechanical engineering trade. Certificate program graduates can be prepared to find work as:
- Detail drafters
- Engineering technicians
- Production aides
Continuing Education Information
Engineering technicians are able to study mechanical engineering in 4-year undergraduate programs as well as master's and doctoral level programs. Undergraduate programs, accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, qualify graduates to sit for the National Council of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors' Professional Engineer credential.
Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology
These 2-year programs allow students to learn to work in teams to solve problems in surveying, hydraulics, transportation systems and mapping. These programs train students to help engineering and construction professionals modernize infrastructure and design utilities, highways and public structures. Admission seekers are typically required to have graduated from high school.
Course Topics
Students learn about the problems that face engineers, architects, contractors, surveyors and suppliers catering to the building manufacturing industry. While learning more effective visual and oral communication skills, students learn about:
- Calculus
- Construction materials
- Ethics
- Economics
- Soil behavior
- Statistics
Popular Career Options
Surveying agencies, private engineering firms, contractors, inspection agencies and architects employ civil engineering technicians. In addition to the generic engineering technician job title, associate degree holders might find work as:
- Cartographers
- Construction managers
- Draftspersons
- Engineering surveyors
- Inspectors
Continuing Education Information
Students interested in engineering, as opposed to engineering technology, must earn at least a 4-year degree. Bachelor's degree programs in civil engineering are widely available and often offer students the opportunity to specialize in a topic like environmental engineering. Master's and doctoral programs are also commonly found at universities and both allow students to tailor a program of study to their research interests.
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology
Programs in electrical engineering technology prepare students to implement current knowledge, perform routine design changes and have hands-on career paths. High school graduates qualify to apply for these 4- to 5-year programs that focus on technical problem solving for electronic instruments and equipment. Program graduates design, test, install, sell and perform maintenance in the telecommunications, automation, power and manufacturing industries.
Course Topics
Students prepare for careers testing, building and working in the field by taking classes in applied calculus, data analysis and electronic design. Beyond learning about the differences between digital and analog electronics, students take classes in:
- Circuit theory
- Control systems
- Physics
- Programming
- Technical writing
Employment Outlook
The employment outlook within for engineering technicians varies by specialty. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the overall field of engineering technicians was expected to grow five percent (www.bls.gov). Electro-mechanical technicians were anticipated to see a five percent decline from 2008-2018, while environmental engineering technicians were projected to experience a 30% jump in employment opportunities at the same time.
Continuing Education Information
Electrical engineering technology programs are found at the master's level. Graduate training involves a significant amount of additional math coursework. Students interested in electrical engineering may pursue master's and doctoral degrees, which are often offered in conjunction with studies in computer engineering.
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