Types of Engineering Degree Programs in OR
Engineering is a very broad area of study. In fact, there is more than two dozen fields of engineering that you can choose as your focus in Oregon engineering schools. Examples of these include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
It normally takes 3-5 years to earn a bachelors degree in engineering. There are several designators for an engineering degree based on where you earn it in Oregon. 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 Ph.D in engineering. You may also get different certifications once you have 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 Oregon with an Engineering Degree
Just like other science and math specialists, engineers are sought after in Oregon. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined 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 at the top of the list of specialties with the most job opportunities.
Curious about how much an engineering degre in Oregon will get you? The pay scale for engineers varies greatly which is not surprising since there are so many different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Oregon will also affect the standard income 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 annual income goes up considerably.
Obtaining an engineering degree in OR opens up the doors for new graduates. All round, more than 40 percent of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who acquire an engineering degree in Oregon also enjoy a starting salary which is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Oregon
These days, students have more options for getting an engineering degree than in the past. You can elect to enroll at a conventional college or university, or you can choose an online engineering degree program in Oregon. Regardless of which kind of school you choose, make sure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Oregon.
Other things to keep in mind are expense, the engineering degree program schedule and whether or not the school has sources to enable you to find a job and take advantage of your new engineering degree. This last point is particularly important in today's tighter economy.
