Online Engineering Degree: What Are the Educational Requirements?

February 8 2020 - Have you ever thought about becoming an engineer? From helping to design huge skyscrapers to taking an architects' vision for a home and making it into a reality, the possibilities are endless.

If you have had this dream then the thought of going to college has probably crossed your mind. But going to college is time consuming and means moving to a new area to attend classes.

If you are considering a change of career later in life then an online engineering degree could be for you. Here's all about engineering education.

Types of Engineers

The most important thing to note about engineers is that they come in many shapes and sizes. Eventually, you will be able to apply for courses and work on your cover letter and application. But first, you need to decide what type of engineering you are going to specialize in.

Electrical Engineers

These types of engineers deal with power and how best to use it. They ensure that all electrical systems that are wired into the building are safe and that they are using the electricity in the most efficient way, not wasting power which is bad for the environment.

Electrical engineers have to work with the architect and structural engineers to ensure that the structure and design of the building accommodates the electrical circuits.

Civil Engineers

These engineers generally deal with machines and tools that are used to help build buildings. They will consider the functionality of the machine or the tool, whether it functions correctly and if it is energy efficient.

They spend most of their time in front of computers and in laboratories testing equipment and designing prototypes to make sure they work rather than on a building site.

Environmental Engineer

The climate emergency is a very real issue that we're all now aware of. Environmental engineers are a bit like city planners helping the city or local town to deal with the impact of the environment on the buildings and places we all visit daily.

In a crisis, like an earthquake, they are called out to help assess the situation and advise on how to mitigate the damage but they also help plan more mundane aspects of a city like waste management.

Strong Math and Science Skills

Once you've decided what engineer you want to become and which course you are going to apply for you next need to make sure you have all of the right skills to secure your place on the course.

Strong math and science skills are a must so if you didn't pass these at high school or your first degree was in humanities or the arts be sure to take some advanced math classes to boost your resume.

An Online Engineering Degree Can Boost Your Career Prospects

An online engineering degree can boost your career prospects but before you apply to be sure to be clear about what aspect of engineering you wish to major in. Also, brush up on your math and science skills.

If you are interested in learning more about engineering education or engineering jobs then be sure to check out the rest of our site.

• More US Career Development Articles