How to Choose the Best Engineering College in IL
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that engineering jobs will grow in Illinois throughout the next decade. If you want to become an engineer, one of the first big decisions you must make is which Illinois engineering college you’ll attend. Utilize the guide below to discover what you need to consider before selecting a college.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Engineering College in Illinois
Cost – For most students the price of engineering college is a concern and can affect which IL colleges even get considered. But don’t just consider the sticker price per semester. Consider how much financial aid each Illinois engineering college awards their students, how much you’re likely to make in your field typically right out of college, and the professional success of students who graduate from a certain school.
Getting an education at a better engineering college might be well worth the extra upfront costs if it means you’ll make more in the workforce. Federal student loans are usually affordable and are considered good debt because you’re investing in your future career.
Career counseling – Making the transition from college to a career isn’t simple. Though the job outlook is great for engineers, college career counseling and job placement services will help you find more job opportunities and land a job sooner. Also look for Illinois engineering colleges which have internship programs where you can gain on the job experience while still in school.
Degrees offered – Engineering is a field with many niches and specialties. In total, there are over 24 different engineering fields you can obtain a degree in. Some engineering colleges in IL offer a wide selection of engineering degrees and some are focused on just a few.
What Degrees Can You Get in Illinois Engineering Colleges?
As mentioned previously, engineering is a field with a wide variety of specialties. Below are a number of the more popular types of engineering degrees.
- Civil engineering
- Mechanical engineering
- Chemical engineering
- Electrical Engineering
Students can obtain a bachelors, masters or doctorate in engineering. The degree level you are wanting to receive will also affect which Illinois engineering college will be the best fit.
Accredited Engineering Colleges in Illinois
To ensure an engineering college is teaching you the skills you will need to compete in the workforce look for Illinois colleges that are accredited. This is especially important if you're considering an engineering program at an online college.
ABET accredited engineering colleges promise to give their students high-quality education that suits professional standards. For more than 75 years, ABET has been providing accreditations for college programs in engineering, technology, applied science and computing. Some organizations, certification programs and state licensure boards actually demand that applicants graduate from an ABET accredited college.
