Types of Engineering Degree Programs in IL
Engineering is a very broad area of study. In fact, there is over 24 fields of engineering that you can choose as your focus in Illinois engineering schools. Examples of these are:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
It normally takes 3-5 years to get a bachelors degree in engineering. There are several designators for an engineering degree based on where you earn it in Illinois. 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.
Once you've earned a bachelors degree, it's also possible to work towards a masters or even a doctorate in engineering. You may also receive different certifications once you have 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 Illinois with an Engineering Degree
Like other science and math specialists, engineers are sought after in Illinois. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that employment for engineers is expected to increase, but some areas of expertise will grow more rapidly 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.
Interested in how much an engineering degre in Illinois will get you? The pay scale for engineers varies greatly which is not surprising given that there are so many different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Illinois will also affect the standard salary of an engineer. Engineers can expect to earn somewhere between $45,000 - $90,000 annually in salary alone. If you factor in bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that annual income goes up substantially.
Getting an engineering degree in IL opens up the doors for new graduates. All round, more than 40% of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who earn an engineering degree in Illinois also enjoy a starting salary that is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Illinois
Today, students have more choices for getting an engineering degree than in the past. You can elect to register at a traditional college or university, or you can choose an online engineering degree program in Illinois. Regardless of which kind of school you select, make sure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Illinois.
Other things to remember are expense, the engineering degree program schedule and if the school has resources to help you find a job and maximize of your new engineering degree. This last point is especially important in today's tighter job market.
