Engineering

Engineering is a broad field encompassing many different specialties. This growing field offers competitive pay and opportunities to work with and develop a variety of technologies. Read on to learn if a career in engineering is right for you.

Inside Engineering

Engineers use math, science and critical thinking to develop new products, technologies and ways to make everyday life more efficient. Engineers typically specialize in one branch of the field, such as aerospace, electrical, nuclear or mechanical engineering. These professionals must be knowledgeable in math and science, and they must keep abreast of the latest technology and advancements in their specialties.

While engineers tend to earn a degree in their specialty area, an education in one branch of engineering may qualify students for employment in another applicable branch. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the most common majors in this field are electrical and electronics engineering, civil engineering and mechanical engineering (www.bls.gov). A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum education requirement for one hoping to enter this industry; however, some positions, particularly in management, require a master's degree. Those who want to work in research and design must often earn Ph.D.s in their field.

Engineers who provide their services to the public must also become licensed. The licensure process is stringent, entailing completion of an accredited bachelor's degree program and passage of the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. Candidates must then work four years as an engineer in training and pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam to obtain licensure. Many states also require engineers to maintain licensure through continuing education.

According to the BLS, employment of engineers in general is predicted to increase by 11% from 2008-2018, though job prospects vary by specialty. Biomedical engineering was expected to be the fastest growing branch of engineering with a 72% employment increase from 2008-2018. In the same decade, environmental engineering jobs were expected to increase 31%, while civil engineering jobs were expected to grow 24%. Earnings also varied by specialty, though the BLS states that engineering offers some of the highest starting wages for bachelor's-degree holders.

Learn More About Engineering

There's a lot to know before you enter the field of engineering. Education-Portal.com has the resources you need to make informed decisions about your education and career. Because there are so many specialties in the engineering field, the articles below are just a small sample of what Education-Portal.com has to offer.

Degree Options

Typically, a bachelor's degree is required to get started in the engineering field. Some students go on to earn graduate degrees. Here are some articles to help you choose the education path that's right for you.

Career Options

Due to the diverse nature of the engineering field, there are many different career paths. Below are just a few options to consider.

Distance Learning Options

Many schools and universities offer engineering courses and programs online; however, some are not accredited and may not meet licensing standards.

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