How to Choose the Best Engineering College in OR
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that engineering jobs will grow in Oregon throughout the next decade. If you want to become an engineer, one of the primary big decisions you need to make is which Oregon engineering college you’ll attend. Make use of the guide below to discover what you need to consider before choosing a college.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Engineering College in Oregon
Cost – For most students the cost of engineering college is a concern and may affect which OR colleges even get considered. But don’t just look at the sticker price per semester. Consider how much financial aid each Oregon engineering college awards their students, how much you’re likely to make in your field normally right out of college, and the professional success of students who graduate from a certain school.
Getting a degree 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 quite affordable and are considered good debt because you’re making an investment in your future career.
Career counseling – Making the transition from college to a career isn’t always easy. Though the job outlook is good for engineers, college career counseling and job placement services will help you find more job opportunities and land a job sooner. Also look for Oregon engineering colleges which have internship programs where one 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 OR offer a wide array of engineering degrees and some are focused on only a few.
What Degrees Can You Get in Oregon Engineering Colleges?
As mentioned above, engineering is a field with a wide array of specialties. Below are a few 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 planning to receive will also affect which Oregon engineering college will be the best fit.
Accredited Engineering Colleges in Oregon
To ensure an engineering college is instructing you on the skills you will have to compete in the workforce look for Oregon 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 mandate that applicants graduate from an ABET accredited college.
