Types of Engineering Degree Programs in AR
Engineering is a very broad area of study. In fact, there are more than two dozen fields of engineering that you can choose as your concentration in Arkansas engineering schools. Examples of these include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
It usually takes 3-5 years to get a bachelors degree in engineering. There are numerous designators for an engineering degree depending on where you earn it in Arkansas. An engineering degree is often called a Bachelor of Engineering Science, Bachelor of Science Engineering, Bachelor of Applied Science, or Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
After earning a bachelors degree, it's also possible to work towards a masters or even a doctorate in engineering. You can even receive various certifications once you've earned your engineering degree. Popular certifications include; Certified Professional Engineer (CPE), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), Engineer in Training (EiT), and Professional Engineer License (P.Eng.).
Employment in Arkansas with an Engineering Degree
Just like other science and math professionals, engineers are in high demand in Arkansas. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that employment for engineers is expected to increase, but some specialties 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 work opportunities.
Curious about how much an engineering degre in Arkansas will earn you? The wages for engineers varies greatly which is not unusual considering that there are a lot of different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Arkansas will also affect the average salary of an engineer. Engineers can expect to make between $45,000 - $90,000 annually in salary alone. If you factor in bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that yearly income goes up substantially.
Obtaining an engineering degree in AR opens up the doors for new graduates. In general, more than 40 percent of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who acquire an engineering degree in Arkansas also benefit from a starting salary which is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Arkansas
These days, students have more options for earning 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 Arkansas. Regardless of which type of school you choose, ensure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Arkansas.
Other things to remember are expense, the engineering degree program schedule and whether or not the school has sources to help you find a job and make the most of your new engineering degree. This last point is especially important in today's tighter economy.
