Types of Engineering Degree Programs in AK
Engineering is a very broad discipline of study. Actually, there are in excess of 24 fields of engineering that you can choose as your concentration in Alaska engineering schools. Examples of these include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
It typically takes 3-5 years to get a bachelors degree in engineering. There are several designators for an engineering degree based upon where you earn it in Alaska. An engineering degree is often referred to as a Bachelor of Engineering Science, Bachelor of Science Engineering, Bachelor of Applied Science, or Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
Once you've earned a bachelors degree, you can also work towards a masters or even a Ph.D in engineering. You may also get different certifications once you've earned your engineering degree. Common certifications include; Certified Professional Engineer (CPE), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), Engineer in Training (EiT), and Professional Engineer License (P.Eng.).
Employment in Alaska with an Engineering Degree
Like other math and science professionals, engineers are sought after in Alaska. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has confirmed that employment for engineers is expected to grow, but some areas of expertise will grow faster than others. In 2008, there were 1.8 million engineering jobs with civil engineering, mechanical engineering and industrial engineering topping the list of specialties with the most jobs.
Curious about how much an engineering degre in Alaska will get you? The pay scale for engineers varies greatly which is not unusual since there are a lot of different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Alaska will also affect the average income of an engineer. Engineers can expect to earn between $45,000 - $90,000 a year in salary alone. If you consider bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that yearly income goes up substantially.
Obtaining an engineering degree in AK opens up the doors for new grads. All round, more than 40% of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who acquire an engineering degree in Alaska also benefit from a starting salary which is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Alaska
Nowadays, students have more choices for getting an engineering degree than ever before. You can elect to register at a conventional college or university, or you can select an online engineering degree program in Alaska. Regardless of which type of school you decide on, ensure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Alaska.
Other things to remember are cost, the engineering degree program schedule and whether or not the school has sources to enable you to find a job and maximize of your new engineering degree. This last point is particularly important in today's tighter economy.
