Electrical Engineering Programs in Tampa, Florida
Getting an Electrical Engineering Degree in Tampa, Florida
Are you considering a career in Electrical Engineering? Tampa, Florida, offers a variety of educational opportunities and resources for aspiring electrical engineers. Electrical Engineering involves designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems, ranging from power generation to advanced electronics. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, this guide will help you navigate the options for earning an Electrical Engineering degree in Tampa, Florida.
About Tampa, Florida
Tampa is a vibrant city located on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving economy, Tampa offers numerous opportunities for education and professional growth. The city is home to landmarks like the Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City, and Busch Gardens. For more information about Tampa, visit the official city website.
Electrical Engineering Programs in Tampa, Florida
Tampa and its surrounding areas are home to several universities offering Electrical Engineering programs. Here are three top institutions:
University of South Florida (USF)
- Location: Tampa
- Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering
- Highlights: USF’s Department of Electrical Engineering is ABET-accredited and offers research opportunities in power systems, telecommunications, and electronics.
- Website: USF Electrical Engineering
University of Florida (UF)
- Location: Gainesville, FL (approximately 130 miles from Tampa)
- Programs Offered: BSEE, MSEE, Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
- Highlights: UF provides a comprehensive curriculum with state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry partnerships.
- Website: UF Electrical Engineering
Florida State University (FSU)
- Location: Tallahassee, FL (approximately 275 miles from Tampa)
- Programs Offered: BSEE, MSEE, Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering (joint program with Florida A&M University)
- Highlights: FSU’s program emphasizes research and practical experience, with a wide range of specializations.
- Website: FSU Electrical Engineering
If you’re looking to stay within Tampa, USF is the most convenient and comprehensive option for Electrical Engineering programs.
Electrical Engineering Employment Opportunities in Tampa
Tampa is home to several leading employers in the engineering and technology sectors. These organizations often seek skilled electrical engineers:
Jabil Inc.
- Industry: Manufacturing and engineering solutions
- Location: St. Petersburg (Tampa Bay area)
- Description: Jabil is a global leader in electronics manufacturing and offers various career opportunities for electrical engineers.
- Website: Jabil Careers
TECO Energy
- Industry: Utilities
- Location: Downtown Tampa
- Description: TECO Energy, a subsidiary of Emera, provides electricity and natural gas services and employs engineers in power systems and energy technologies.
- Website: TECO Careers
Raymond James Financial
- Industry: Financial and technology services
- Location: Carillon Office Park, Clearwater (Tampa Bay area)
- Description: This company integrates technology and engineering to support its financial services, creating opportunities for electrical engineers in IT and systems development.
- Website: Raymond James Careers
These organizations, along with many others in Tampa, offer promising career paths for Electrical Engineering graduates.
Prerequisites for Electrical Engineering Programs
To enroll in an Electrical Engineering program, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: A strong foundation in mathematics and science is essential.
- Standardized Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are often required for undergraduate programs.
- Minimum GPA: Most programs require a minimum GPA for admission.
- Prerequisite Courses: Advanced mathematics (e.g., calculus), physics, and chemistry are typically required.
- Graduate Programs: For master’s or doctoral programs, a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, GRE scores, and a competitive GPA are necessary.
Check with individual universities for specific admission criteria.
Professional Certification for Electrical Engineers in Florida
In Florida, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) involves several steps:
- Education: Earn a degree from an ABET-accredited program.
- Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam: Pass this exam to become an Engineer-In-Training (EIT).
- Work Experience: Gain at least four years of relevant work experience under a licensed PE.
- Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam: Pass this exam to earn your PE license.
The licensing process is overseen by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE). Additionally, joining professional organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) or the Tampa Bay IEEE Section can provide networking and professional development opportunities.
Get Started Today
Earning an Electrical Engineering degree in Tampa, Florida, can open doors to a rewarding and impactful career. With a range of local and nearby educational programs, supportive professional organizations, and strong job prospects, Tampa is an excellent place to begin your journey. Take the first step today by reaching out to a university and exploring the programs available to you.