Electrical Engineering Programs in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Getting an Electrical Engineering Degree in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Electrical Engineering is a dynamic and essential field that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of electrical systems and technologies. Whether you are interested in power systems, signal processing, or electronic circuit design, earning an Electrical Engineering Degree can open doors to a rewarding career. For aspiring engineers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this guide provides an overview of educational options, admission requirements, and career opportunities in the area.
About Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, known as “The Steel City,” is a thriving hub for education, innovation, and technology. Nestled in Allegheny County, Pittsburgh boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous academic institutions. Home to landmarks such as the Phipps Conservatory, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and Point State Park, Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. For more information about the city, visit the official Pittsburgh website.
Electrical Engineering Programs in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is home to several reputable universities offering Electrical Engineering programs. Here are three top institutions in the city:
University of Pittsburgh – Swanson School of Engineering
- Location: Oakland neighborhood
- Programs Offered: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSEE), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering
- Program Highlights: The Swanson School of Engineering is renowned for its research opportunities, internship programs, and industry partnerships. Students can specialize in areas like power systems, signal processing, and electronic circuit design.
- Website: Swanson School of Engineering
Carnegie Mellon University – College of Engineering
- Location: Squirrel Hill neighborhood
- Programs Offered: BSEE, MSEE, Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Program Highlights: Carnegie Mellon is a globally recognized institution known for its cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary approach. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art labs and collaborations with leading tech companies.
- Website: Carnegie Mellon University
Duquesne University – Biomedical Engineering Department
- Location: Bluff neighborhood
- Programs Offered: BSEE with a focus on bioelectronics and electrical systems
- Program Highlights: Duquesne University offers a unique blend of electrical engineering and biomedical applications, preparing students for careers in healthcare technology.
- Website: Duquesne University
If you’re open to nearby options, consider Penn State University (located approximately 2 hours from Pittsburgh) for additional Electrical Engineering programs.
Electrical Engineering Employment Opportunities in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is home to several prominent companies and organizations that employ electrical engineers. Here are some notable employers:
Westinghouse Electric Company
- Location: Cranberry Township (North of Pittsburgh)
- Industry: Nuclear power and energy systems
- Opportunities: Westinghouse is a leader in the development of nuclear energy technologies and regularly hires electrical engineers for roles in power systems and control design.
- Website: Westinghouse Careers
Eaton Corporation
- Location: Moon Township (West of Pittsburgh)
- Industry: Electrical components and systems
- Opportunities: Eaton offers roles in product design, power distribution, and energy management solutions.
- Website: Eaton Careers
Aurora Innovation
- Location: Strip District neighborhood
- Industry: Autonomous vehicle technology
- Opportunities: Aurora focuses on developing cutting-edge autonomous systems, providing opportunities for electrical engineers in areas such as sensor technology and control systems.
- Website: Aurora Careers
Prerequisites for Electrical Engineering Programs
To enroll in an Electrical Engineering program in Pittsburgh, you typically need the following:
Education Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of college-preparatory courses, including mathematics (through trigonometry or pre-calculus), chemistry, and physics
Test Scores:
- SAT or ACT scores (undergraduate programs)
- GRE scores (graduate programs)
Other Requirements:
- Minimum GPA (varies by institution)
- Letters of recommendation and a personal statement (for graduate programs)
Professional Certification for Electrical Engineers in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) requires the following steps:
- Education: Earn an ABET-accredited Electrical Engineering degree.
- Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certification: Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
- Experience: Accumulate at least four years of relevant work experience.
- PE Exam: Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
For more information, visit the Pennsylvania State Board of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.
Get Started Today
Pursuing an Electrical Engineering Degree in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a rewarding step toward a fulfilling career. With a range of educational programs, professional opportunities, and supportive resources, now is the time to take the next step. Contact a school today to begin your journey in this exciting field.