Types of Engineering Degree Programs in WA
Engineering is a very broad discipline of study. In fact, there is more than 24 fields of engineering that you can choose as your concentration in Washington engineering schools. Examples of these are:
- 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 a number of designators for an engineering degree depending on where you earn it in Washington. An engineering degree can be 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, you can also work towards a masters or even a Ph.D in engineering. You may also get 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 Washington with an Engineering Degree
Like other math and science specialists, engineers are sought after in Washington. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has confirmed that employment for engineers is expected to grow, 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 job opportunities.
Curious about how much an engineering degre in Washington will earn you? The pay scale for engineers varies greatly which is not surprising given that there are a lot of different fields within engineering. Years of experience and location in Washington 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 factor in bonuses, benefits and profit sharing then that annual salary goes up substantially.
Obtaining an engineering degree in WA opens up the doors for new graduate students. Overall, more than 40% of engineers have 4 or less years of experience. Students who acquire an engineering degree in Washington also enjoy a starting salary that's higher than most.
Choosing the Best Engineering Degree Programs in Washington
These days, students have more choices for earning an engineering degree than in the past. You can elect to enroll at a traditional university or college, or you can select an online engineering degree program in Washington. Regardless of which type of school you select, ensure that the organization is accredited and that the engineering degree program is also accredited in Washington.
Other things to keep in mind are expense, the engineering degree program schedule and whether or not the school has resources to help you find a job and maximize of your new engineering degree. This last point is especially essential in today's tighter job market.
