If you’re someone who’s interested in the science and math of electronics, then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it’s creating automobiles or powering entire neighborhoods, there’s a lot you can do with a degree in electrical engineering. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about getting your online electrical engineering degree.
What is Electrical Engineering?
It’s easy to see why electrical engineers are in high demand around the world. Considered the largest branch of engineering fields, electrical engineering deals with several issues such as electronics, control systems and telecommunications. Electrical engineers apply their knowledge of engineering and technology to design and develop a wide variety of tools, systems and equipment.
Electrical engineers are well-versed in many different fields, such as computer science. Their duties include research, development, manufacturing and several other engineering services. As an electrical engineer, you can perform integral roles in any number of industries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a bachelor’s degree is sufficient certification to enter this profession. Prior experience in a related occupation, while recommended, is not required. The median salary for electrical engineers is $101,250, which is considered higher than related professions.
However, the job outlook for this particular profession is expected to see only two percent growth. Though this is considered slower than most other professions, you can improve your chances of employment in several ways. Choosing to specialize in another subfield such as robotics or pursuing a master’s degree can open many doors for you. On that note, let’s talk about the best ways to pursue your online electrical engineering degree.
Why Earn Your Electrical Engineering Degree Online
Technology has made it very easy to learn in a much faster and more convenient manner. Most college and university programs require students to sacrifice their time and money on unnecessary things like boarding fees. This just isn’t possible for some students, especially today as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the economy.
This is why online students are quickly growing in number and obtaining online degrees has never been easier. You can pursue various degrees whenever and wherever you’re most comfortable. Getting your degree online is often faster and less expensive than the old-fashioned way. So, if you’re a determined student with a working computer and a stable internet connection, an online degree is your best bet.
Factors to Consider Before Enrolling
There are several factors you should consider before enrolling in a specific program. For instance, you should pursue a program that is affordable and that doesn’t require arbitrary fees, such as graduation and assessment fees.
It’s also important to make sure you’re well-equipped with the equipment needed to complete your courses. Are you familiar with the software you’ll be using and the hardware you require? Are you aware of how to access message boards and how to attend online meetings? Make sure you’re familiar with the resources and equipment you’ll be using to study online.
Furthermore, you should research whether your program is asynchronous (self-paced) or not. A self-paced course will be beneficial because you can complete it on your own time instead of worrying about deadlines.
You should also research whether the school whose program you’ve enrolled in is reputable. You can visit school websites, check reviews of the programs and individual instructors, and contact schools directly for further information. It is also important to make sure your program is accredited and legitimate. This way you don’t face issues down the road like when it comes to transferring credit or seeking employment.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what program is the right one for you. Can you afford to spend generously on a particular program? Is your program ABET accredited? Would you rather take 120 credit hours instead of 128 credit hours?
Knowing the answers to these questions will be very helpful in the long run. So, let’s break down the best online programs for electrical engineering degrees below.
Best Online Electrical Engineering Degree Programs
We here at CareerKarma are determined to give you a jumpstart to your professional journey. So, we’ve compiled a list of the best programs out there for you to earn your electrical engineering degree. These programs and courses include the following:
Florida International University
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: $228/credit-in-state; $345/credit-out-of-state
Credit Requirements: 128 credits
Format: 100% online; asynchronous
Admission Requirements: SAT or ACT score required
Arizona State University-Skysong
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: $663/credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Format: 100% online; synchronous and asynchronous
Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA minimum; SAT or ACT score required
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Stony Brook University
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: $295/ credit in-state; $1,031/credit out-of-state
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Format: 100% online; asynchronous
Admission Requirements: SAT or ACT score required
University of North Dakota
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Duration: 4 to 5 years
Tuition: $395/credit in-state; $595/credit out-of-state
Credit Requirements: 125 credits
Format: 100% online; synchronous and asynchronous
Admission Requirements: 2.75 GPA minimum; SAT or ACT score required
National University
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: $370/credit
Credit Requirements: 180 quarter credits
Format: 100% online; synchronous and asynchronous
Admission Requirements: 2.0 GPA minimum
What to Do After Earning Your Electrical Engineering Degree
Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering is a challenging yet rewarding task. After earning your degree online, you will be ready for several high-paying, entry-level jobs in several industries. As an electrical engineer, you could work for the federal government or in research/development for a large company. Below are some careers you may want to consider after you earn your Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Electronics Engineer
2019 Median Pay: $101,250/year
Duties: Electrical engineers deal with the design and manufacturing of electrical equipment and electrical systems.
Job Growth (2018-2028): 2% (as fast as average)
- Computer Engineer
2019 Median Pay: $117,220/year
Duties: Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop and test computer systems and components.
Job Growth (2018-2028): 6% (as fast as average)
- Biomedical Engineer
2019 Median Pay: $91,410/year
Duties: Biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with medical sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems and software.
Job Growth (2018-2028): 4% (as fast as average)
- Aerospace Engineer
2019 Median Pay: $116,500/year
Duties: Aerospace engineers primarily design and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles.
Job Growth (2018-2028): 2% (slower than average)
- Naval Engineer
2019 Median Pay: $92,400/year
Duties: Marine engineers and naval architects design, build and maintain ships, from aircraft carriers to submarines to sailboats or tankers.
Job Growth (2018-2028): 9% (faster than average)
As you can see, professionals in the field of electrical engineering can expect above-average salaries in a wide array of careers. By earning a master’s degree or specializing in subfield, you can expect to earn higher positions in your line of work. One subfield a person can specialize in is communication systems.
Although on-the-job training and prior work experience are not required, having them may lead to management or senior engineering posts. Even if you discontinue your studies after earning your bachelor’s degree, you can still expect to earn a handsome salary.
Electrical Engineering Degree FAQ’s
- Are there any scholarships or financial aid programs available?
Yes, here is a website you can use to find several scholarship opportunities, such as the INTEL Scholarship at Stony Brook.
- Are there any internship programs I can apply to?
We found a website containing the latest work programs that you can apply to, from internships to full-time jobs.
- Is there anything else I should know before starting my journey?
You should always be willing to learn more about your field of interest and how you can obtain your degree easily. Here is a website that is full of resources regarding engineering skills, degrees and extracurriculars that you should definitely check out.
Conclusion
You should earn your electrical engineering degree however is most comfortable for you. The online process has proven to be effective for many students worldwide, and it is often cheaper and more convenient overall. All you really need is a working laptop, a stable Internet connection and the resources that we’ve provided you. Happy learning!
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
