Types of Engineering Degree Programs in CA
Engineering is a very broad field of study. In fact, there is more than 24 fields of engineering that you'll be able to choose as your concentration in California 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 several designators for an engineering degree depending on where you earn it in California. 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 different certifications once you have earned your engineering degree. Well-known certifications include; Certified Professional Engineer (CPE), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), Engineer in Training (EiT), and Professional Engineer License (P.Eng.).
Employment in California with an Engineering Degree
Like other math and science professionals, engineers are sought after in California. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has confirmed that employment for engineers is expected to increase, but some areas of expertise will grow more quickly than others. In 2008, there were 1.8 million engineering jobs with civil engineering, mechanical engineering and industrial engineering at the top of the list of specialties with the most job opportunities.
Interested in how much an engineering degre in California will earn 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 California will also affect the standard income of an engineer. Engineers can expect to make between $45,000 - $90,000 per year in salary alone. If you consider bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that annual income goes up substantially.
Obtaining an engineering degree in CA opens up the doors for recent graduates. Overall, more than 40% of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who acquire an engineering degree in California also enjoy a starting salary which is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in California
These days, students have more choices for getting an engineering degree than in the past. You can elect to enroll at a conventional university or college, or you can select an online engineering degree program in California. Regardless of which kind of school you select, make certain that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in California.
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 take advantage of your new engineering degree. This last point is particularly important in today's tighter economy.
