What Can You Do with an Electrical Engineering Technology Degree?
In this electrified world, flicking a switch can instantly illuminate a room, a simple device in your pocket connects you to the vast expanse of human knowledge, and electric cars silently glide through city streets. Electrical engineering technology pulses at the heart of modern life. It can be found in the towering power grids that light up entire cities to the microchips embedded in our everyday gadgets.
If you’re fascinated by the application and implementation of electrical and electronic systems, this career field might be for you. Read on to see how an electrical engineering technology degree can introduce you to a world of opportunities.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Electrical Engineering Technology Degree?
The first step in pursuing an electrical engineering technology degree is finding the right program from an ABET-accredited college or university. Students coming straight out of high school may choose a traditional four-year bachelor’s program at a brick-and-mortar institution. However, full-time school may not be a viable option for busy adults who are already in the workforce or are serving in the military. For them, pursuing an online bachelor’s in electrical engineering technology may be a better option.
U.S. News & World Report estimates that full-time students in an online program can usually expect to earn the 120–126 credits required for their degree in four to six years, with part-time students taking longer. However, that estimate assumes that the full-time student is starting from scratch. Some programs may accept credit from previous college-level courses and exams, military or on-the-job training, or other credentials or certifications, which could shorten the length of time it takes to earn your electrical engineering technology degree.
Is Electrical Engineering Technology a Good Career Choice?
The field of electronic and electrical engineering and engineering tech is experiencing a range of growth, from slow and steady to rapid. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are more than 100,000 electrical engineering technology jobs across the country, which will remain stable over the next eight years, with an average of just under 10,000 openings per year through 2032. The job outlook for electrical and electronics engineers is even better, with projected employment growth of 5% through 2032 and a projected average of 17,800 openings each of those years.
More good news: Entering this career offers a great income. The median annual salary of electrical engineering technologists and technicians in 2023 was $72,800, and the median annual electrical engineering salary for that same year was $106,950.
What Will You Learn in an Electrical Engineering Technology Program?
If you have decided to pursue an electrical engineering technology (EET) degree program, you might wonder what you can expect to study. In most programs, you can expect to take courses in math and physics. You will likely cover topics in electrical theory, circuits, motors, hydraulics, generators, programmable controllers, and many other subjects. Beyond the core curriculum, you may have the opportunity to choose a concentration to further focus your education.
Power Systems
In an EET program, you may choose a concentration in power systems. On this education track, you’ll study power system analysis and design. Depending on the program, you may cover topics such as power transformers, power system controls, and transmission line parameters.
Electronics
An electronics concentration within an EET degree program focuses on the analysis, design, assembly, testing, upgrading, and maintenance of electronics, computers, and communications hardware so that students are prepared for various positions in the field. Usually, students are required to participate in many labs and hands-on work.
What Are Some Electrical Engineering Technology Jobs
Once you’ve earned your EET degree, it’s time to find your best fit in the field. Rest assured, there are many electrical engineering technology jobs you can pursue with this versatile degree.
Instrumentation Engineer
An instrumentation engineer could be for you if you’re interested in designing, developing, installing, and maintaining systems and equipment used to measure and control physical quantities in various industrial processes. These engineers work in various industries, including oil and gas, manufacturing, chemical processing, power generation, and pharmaceuticals. Their expertise is essential for optimizing industrial processes, enhancing productivity, and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
Computer Hardware Engineer
A type of engineer who works in telecommunications, automotive industries, health care, and other industries that require computer systems is a computer hardware engineer. These specialists design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing and installation of computer hardware components, including processors, memory devices, routers, circuit boards, and more. Computer hardware engineers are crucial for the innovation and advancement of computing technology because they contribute to developing faster, more efficient, and more reliable computer systems.
Electrical Technician
If you are interested in installing, wiring, testing, and inspecting electrical components and systems, a career as an electrical technician could be for you. These professionals work in numerous industries, where they assemble electrical systems and measure and monitor electrical issues to make sure systems work correctly and efficiently.
Nanoelectronics Manufacturing Engineer
A nanoelectronics manufacturing engineer designs, creates, and produces electronic devices and components at the nanoscale. They work with materials and processes at the atomic and molecular levels to make tiny and efficient electronic systems. They help in areas such as quantum computing, ultraefficient energy devices, and next-generation sensors, contributing to significant innovations and improvements in electronic systems.
Substation Technician
Substation technicians install, maintain, and repair large-scale commercial, industrial, and residential power systems. They work with low-, medium-, and high-voltage systems to ensure that electrical grids function correctly and that businesses and homeowners have the power they need to operate.
HVDC Maintenance Engineer
A hands-on job in electrical engineering technology is as a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) maintenance engineer. These engineers maintain, inspect, and repair HVDC systems, which efficiently transmit electricity over long distances and interconnect different power grids. HVDC maintenance engineers work for power utilities, transmission system operators, or companies specializing in HVDC technology.
Circuit Design Engineer
A circuit design engineer designs and develops electronic circuits that meet specific performance, reliability, and safety criteria. They develop reliable and efficient electronic systems that power various modern technologies. These engineers work in various industries, including consumer electronics, telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and industrial equipment.
How Can You Prepare for a Career in Electrical Engineering Technology?
Does pursuing a career in electrical engineering technology align with your goals? The best way to start on this path is to find an appropriate degree program. Most employers look for potential employees with at least an associate degree to obtain an entry-level position. But to advance into midlevel and senior roles, you’ll want to pursue a higher degree, as well as certifications. Though not required, certifications like those offered by the National Society of Professional Engineers can demonstrate your skills and level of knowledge.
Get Your Electrical Engineering Technology Degree at Excelsior University
Electrical engineering technology is a dynamic field that blends engineering principles with hands-on technical skills. And with an EET degree, you can be prepared for various roles in the ever-evolving world of electrical and electronic systems. Excelsior University’s admissions counselors can help you start on your path toward a completely online EET degree so you can pursue an exciting career in electrical engineering technology.
