Types of Engineering Degree Programs in VA
Engineering is a very broad discipline of study. In fact, there are more than two dozen fields of engineering that you can choose as your concentration in Virginia engineering schools. Examples of these include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
It typically takes 3-5 years to earn a bachelors degree in engineering. There is numerous designators for an engineering degree based upon where you earn it in Virginia. An engineering degree can be referred to as a Bachelor of Engineering Science, Bachelor of Science Engineering, Bachelor of Applied Science, or Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
After earning a bachelors degree, you can also work towards a masters or even a Ph.D in engineering. You can even receive different 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 Virginia with an Engineering Degree
Similar to other science and math specialists, engineers are sought after in Virginia. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has determined that employment for engineers is expected to increase, but some specialties 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 job opportunities.
Interested in how much an engineering degre in Virginia will get you? The wages for engineers varies greatly which isn't unusual given that there are a lot of different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Virginia will also affect the average salary of an engineer. Engineers can expect to earn between $45,000 - $90,000 per year in salary alone. If you consider bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that annual salary goes up considerably.
Getting an engineering degree in VA opens up the doors for recent graduates. All round, more than 40 percent of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who earn an engineering degree in Virginia also benefit from a starting salary that is higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Virginia
Today, students have more choices for earning an engineering degree than in the past. You can choose to enroll at a traditional college or university, or you can select an online engineering degree program in Virginia. 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 Virginia.
Other things to keep in mind are expense, the engineering degree program schedule and if the school has sources to enable you to find a job and maximize of your new engineering degree. This last point is especially important in today's tighter economy.
