Electrical Engineering Programs in Florida
Electrical Engineering Degree Programs in Florida: A Complete Guide
Looking to pursue an Electrical Engineering degree in Florida? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about educational requirements, top programs, and career opportunities in the Sunshine State. Florida’s growing tech industry and strong economy make it an excellent choice for aspiring electrical engineers.
What Are the Requirements for Electrical Engineering Programs in Florida?
To begin your electrical engineering journey in Florida, you’ll need to meet these general admission requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Strong foundation in pre-engineering coursework (calculus and physics)
- Competitive SAT or ACT scores
- Meeting university-specific GPA requirements
Each university has unique requirements. For example:
- Florida Atlantic University requires 15 credits in mathematics and 9 credits in science
- University of Florida mandates a 2.5 GPA in critical-tracking courses
- University of Central Florida requires 128 semester hours with a 2.25 GPA in engineering courses
What Are Florida’s Top Electrical Engineering Programs?
Florida offers several ABET-accredited programs at prestigious institutions:
University of Florida (UF)
- Location: Gainesville
- Program Website: UF Electrical Engineering
- Requirements: 128 credit hours, 2.0 UF GPA
- Known for: Strong research focus and innovation
Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
- Location: Boca Raton
- Program Website: FAU Electrical Engineering
- Requirements: 123 credit hours, 2.0 GPA
- Features: Comprehensive curriculum with practical applications
University of Central Florida (UCF)
- Location: Orlando
- Program Website: UCF Electrical Engineering
- Requirements: 128 credit hours, 2.25 GPA in major courses
- Highlights: Diverse specialization options
What Does the Curriculum Include?
A typical electrical engineering program in Florida covers:
- Core Mathematics and Physics
- Electrical Circuits
- Electronics
- Electromagnetic Fields
- Control Systems
- Communication Systems
Specialization options include:
- Computer Engineering
- Power Systems
- Digital Signal Processing
- Control Systems
- Communication Systems
What Are the Career Prospects and Salary Expectations?
According to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, electrical engineers in Florida enjoy strong career prospects:
- Average Annual Salary: $97,000
- Job Growth: Positive outlook through 2030
- Major Employers:
- Siemens (Orlando)
- Harris Corporation (Melbourne)
- Lockheed Martin (Orlando)
How Do You Become Licensed in Florida?
Professional Engineering (PE) licensure in Florida requires:
- Graduate from an ABET-accredited program
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
- Complete 4 years of work experience under a licensed PE
- Pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam
The Florida Board of Professional Engineers oversees licensing and provides detailed guidance for the process.
What Professional Organizations Should You Join?
Join these organizations for networking and professional development:
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
- Florida Engineering Society (FES)
- National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
What Are the Program Costs and Financial Aid Options?
Tuition costs vary by institution:
- In-state tuition: $6,000-$21,000 per year
- Financial aid available through:
- Florida Department of Education
- Federal grants and loans
- University-specific scholarships
How Do You Get Started?
- Research ABET-accredited programs in Florida
- Review admission requirements for your chosen schools
- Prepare application materials
- Apply for financial aid
- Contact university admissions offices for guidance
For more information about engineering education standards, visit the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Take the first step toward your electrical engineering career by contacting your preferred university’s admissions office today. With Florida’s strong job market and excellent educational opportunities, now is the perfect time to begin your journey in electrical engineering.