Types of Engineering Degree Programs in PA
Engineering is a very broad discipline of study. Actually, there is more than two dozen fields of engineering that you can choose as your concentration in Pennsylvania 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 a number of designators for an engineering degree based on where you earn it in Pennsylvania. 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 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 Pennsylvania with an Engineering Degree
Similar to other math and science professionals, engineers are in high demand in Pennsylvania. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has confirmed that employment for engineers is expected to increase, but some specialties will grow more quickly 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 Pennsylvania will get you? The wages for engineers varies greatly which isn't unusual given that there are so many different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Pennsylvania 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 salary goes up substantially.
Getting an engineering degree in PA opens up the doors for new graduate students. All round, more than 40% of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who earn an engineering degree in Pennsylvania also benefit from a starting salary that is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Pennsylvania
Nowadays, students have more choices for getting an engineering degree than ever before. You can elect to enroll at a traditional college or university, or you can select an online engineering degree program in Pennsylvania. Regardless of which kind of school you decide on, ensure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Pennsylvania.
Other things to keep in mind are price, the engineering degree program schedule and if the school has sources to help you find a job and make the most of your new engineering degree. This last point is particularly important in today's tighter economy.
