Engineering
Engineers use the math and science to develop efficient solutions to technical problems. Are you constantly looking for ways to make a product or process better? Do you like to research problems and come up with the best possible solution? Are you able to apply mathematical concepts in your research? You might find engineering work highly satisfying, both intellectually and financially since engineers are constantly learning and are among the highest earning college graduates. While most engineering opportunities do require a bachelor’s degree, you should bear in mind that there are many different types of engineers and the courses required for each are equally diverse.
Concentrations
All engineers draw from mathematics, physics, and science to solve problems. However, there are specialties within the engineering industry. Here is a list of some types of engineers and a brief description of what they do:
- Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircrafts, spacecrafts, and missiles as well as supervise the manufacturing of these products.
- Agricultural engineers use engineering technology and science to contribute to the agricultural industry. Agricultural engineers design equipment, study ways to improve the processing of agricultural products, and develop power systems and structures.
- Biomedical engineers design and develop devices and procedures that aid medical and health-related problems.
- Chemical engineers use chemistry to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals and biochemicals.
- Civil engineers work with the design, construction, and maintenance of all forms of infrastructure such as bridges, buildings, dams, roadways, and tunnels.
- Computer engineers research, design, develop, and test computer hardware and software.
- Electrical engineers work with the design and development of electrical products, such as lighting and wiring.
- Environmental engineers use biology and chemistry to solve environmental issues.
- Industrial engineers determine the most efficient way to use people, materials, machines, information, and energy to manufacture a product or offer a service.
- Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, and test mechanical devices, such as tools, machines, and engines.
- Nuclear engineers design and develop the instruments and processes used to obtain benefits from nuclear energy.
- Petroleum engineers search out reservoirs for oil and natural gas then work with other specialists to extract these resources.
Qualities and Skills
Those interested in pursuing an engineering degree need to possess an affinity for investigation and research as well as solid mathematical, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Depending on the type of engineering you choose, you will be required to take specialized courses like chemistry, algebra, geometry, and computer programming. Good communication skills, both written and oral, will also be essential to this field since you must be able to effectively convey your ideas.
Occupations
Civil engineers hold a large portion of the 1.5 million engineering jobs in the U.S., while agricultural engineers occupy the least. Approximately twelve percent of all engineering jobs fall under the government. Engineers are needed everywhere—from metropolitan to rural areas.
Earnings
Earnings vary by industry, specialty, and education, with the highest earners being those with a master’s degree or Ph.D.
Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Engineering
Franklin University
Franklin University Online provides numerous undergraduate options as well as an MBA program. Although online course students are independent learners, Franklin’s faculty work to make sure these students have all the support they need through chat room discussions, e-mail, bulletin board posts, teleconference calls, and interaction with teams.
Florida Tech
Florida Tech, or Florida Institute of Technology, is located in Melbourne, Florida, and has a diverse student body of over 5,000. The majority of these students pursue degrees in engineering or technology.
Cleveland Institute of Electronics
Cleveland Institute of Electronics offers courses that are based on lessons that teach basic theories applicable to many areas of electronics and computer technology. Intermediate and advanced electronics courses are available for those who have an electronics foundation and want to build on that knowledge.
Champlain College
As a division of Continuing Professional Studies, online learning at Champlain College provides a flexible option for those students interested in education but find themselves hindered by logistics, time constraints, or other factors. The Champlain difference is that these online programs are developed to be relevant to professional life.
Bowling Green State University
While Bowling Green State University was originally established as an institution for educators and boasts today that it is the 14th largest producer of teachers in the United States, it offers more than 200 undergraduate majors. In addition to its seven undergraduate colleges, BGSU offers Master’s and doctoral level programs as well.
Benedictine University
Along with 17 other institutions, Benedictine University is part of the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities, and its mission and vision reflect Catholic and Benedictine traditions.
Boston University
Boston University is an independent, coeducational, and non-sectarian internationally recognized institution of higher education and research. With more than 30,000 students from all 50 states and 135 countries, it is one of the largest independent universities in the United States.
Keiser University
Keiser University helps students succeed by providing the professional and academic groundwork to meet their career ambitions. Keiser gives high quality education through different scheduling options to accommodate their students’ busy schedules.
National University
Headquartered in La Jolla, California, National University is the second-largest, private, nonprofit institution of higher learning in California with over 22,000 full-time students and more than 113,000 alumni. Students can earn an Associate, Bachelor, Master, or Specialist degree. The university offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as 16 teacher credential and certificate programs.
Norwich University
For 20 years, Norwich University’s Cadets and traditional students have shared the same campus. Norwich is a small and private university that blends the military tradition of nearly two centuries along with a wide range of traditional undergraduate degree programs.
