Comprehensive Guide to Getting an Electrical Engineering Degree

Are you fascinated by the inner workings of electronic devices? Do you dream of designing the next breakthrough technology? If so, a career in electrical engineering might be perfect for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the journey of obtaining an electrical engineering degree, from education requirements to certifications and licensing.

What is Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineering is a dynamic field that plays a crucial role in shaping our modern world. It involves the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacturing of electrical equipment, from tiny microchips to massive power station generators.

Education Requirements: Building Your Foundation

Bachelor’s Degree: The Essential First Step

The cornerstone of an electrical engineering career is a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Here’s what you need to know:

• Program Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). This ensures your education meets industry standards.

• Credit Hours: Expect to complete between 128 to 180 credit hours, typically spread over four years of full-time study.

• Core Courses: Your curriculum will include fundamental courses such as:

  • Circuits and electronics
  • Electromagnetics
  • Solid-state electronics
  • Computer systems and programming
  • Signal processing
  • Control systems

Beyond the Technical: General Education Requirements

In addition to technical courses, you’ll need to complete general education requirements, including:

• English composition
• Mathematics (calculus and differential equations)
• Physical sciences (physics and chemistry)
• Humanities and social sciences

GPA Matters: Meeting Academic Standards

To successfully complete your program, you’ll typically need to meet these GPA requirements:

• Minimum Technical GPA: Many programs require a 2.0 minimum for all electrical and computer engineering (ECE) courses.
• Minimum Overall GPA: A 2.0 overall GPA is often required for graduation.

Pro Tip: Aim higher than the minimum GPA to improve your job prospects and open doors for graduate studies!

Certifications and Licensing: Proving Your Expertise

Engineer In Training (EIT) Certification: Your First Professional Milestone

The EIT certification is often the first step towards professional licensure. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Exam: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
• Format: It’s a 6-hour, computer-based test with 110 multiple-choice questions.
• When to Take It: You can typically take the exam in your final year of an ABET-accredited program or after graduation.

Professional Engineer (PE) Certification: The Gold Standard

The PE certification is a prestigious credential that allows engineers to offer services directly to the public. To earn it, you’ll need to:

1. Complete a four-year degree from an ABET-accredited program
2. Pass the FE exam
3. Gain at least four years of professional experience under a licensed PE
4. Pass the PE exam

Other Certifications: Specializing Your Skills

Consider additional certifications to showcase your expertise:

• Certified Senior Power Systems Engineer (CSPSE): Offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) for experienced power system engineers.

Online Resources: Enhancing Your Education

While not a substitute for a degree, online resources can complement your education:

• FE Electrical Exam Prep Review Course: StudyForFE offers prep courses for the FE and PE exams.
• IEEE Continuing Education: The IEEE provides various online courses and certifications for professional development.

Licensing: Meeting Legal Requirements

In the United States, engineers whose work directly impacts public safety must be licensed. The process typically involves:

1. Graduating from an ABET-accredited program
2. Passing the FE exam to become an EIT
3. Gaining four years of relevant work experience
4. Passing the PE exam

Note: Licensing requirements can vary by state, so check with your state’s licensing board for specific regulations.

Top U.S. Schools for Electrical Engineering

Looking for top-notch programs? Consider these prestigious institutions:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

   • Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Program
   • Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
   • Cost: Approximately $53,790 per year (2021-2022 academic year)

2. Stanford University

   • Electrical Engineering Program
   • Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
   • Cost: Approximately $56,169 per year (2021-2022 academic year)

3. University of California, Berkeley

   • Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences Program
   • Program Length: 4 years (full-time)
   • Cost: Approximately $14,253 per year for in-state students, $44,007 for out-of-state students (2021-2022 academic year)

Career Outlook: A Bright Future

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the future looks promising for electrical engineers:

• Job Growth: Employment is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029.
• Median Annual Wage: $103,390 as of May 2020.

Key industries for electrical engineers include:

• Research and development
• Engineering services
• Manufacturing
• Telecommunications
• Federal government

Ready to Power Up Your Future?

Obtaining an electrical engineering degree is a challenging but rewarding journey. By choosing an accredited program, meeting academic requirements, and pursuing relevant certifications and licenses, you’re setting yourself up for success in this exciting field.

Remember, the world of electrical engineering is constantly evolving. Stay current with emerging technologies and continue your education throughout your career to remain at the forefront of innovation.

Are you ready to charge ahead and become part of the next generation of electrical engineers? The future is bright – and it’s powered by professionals like you!