Engineers use scientific and mathematic principles to develop solutions to technical problems. They act as a link between scientific theory and the practical applications of those theories in solving the world’s most pressing or mundane needs. From design to production to testing, engineers are always needed to create the products we use, the structures we live in, and vehicles we drive.
Engineering Specializations
Engineers typically specialize in one of 17 areas:

Education of Engineers
Engineers typically start their careers by earning a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) degree. This usually takes 3 to 5 years to complete in the U.S. Requirements for the degree vary from country to country. Depending on the awarding institution, it may also be called a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering Science, Bachelor of Science in Engineering, and Bachelor of Applied Science. It is also not uncommon for science, math, physics, and computer science majors to go into engineering careers.
In these degree programs, students are typically asked to focus in one of the above mentioned areas. Algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus are to be expected, as are biology, chemistry, and physics Computer programming or computer applications coursework may also be required.
Engineering Licensing
By becoming licensed, engineers position themselves for maximum career advancement, as a professional engineer (PE) license indicates competency, professionalism, achievement, trustworthiness, and future potential. In addition, a PE license usually brings higher salary and more job opportunities. Companies often help their employees become licensed.
Consider these other benefits of licensure:
Although the requirements for licensure vary by state, most include graduating from an accredited college or university, gaining 4 years of experience in the field of engineering, and passing the required written exams.
Once you graduate, you must begin the licensing process by gaining the Engineers in Training (EIT) certificate, the pre-license certificate. In some states, this certificate is known as the Engineer Intern (EI).
The EIT signifies that you have completed the engineering degree requirements and have passed the Fundamental of Engineering Exam (FE Exam). In order to gain an EIT certification, the degree requirements must be met as well as a successful score on the FE exam. After that, the candidate will have to pay a small fee (between $10 and $100) depending on the state to gain licensure.
Engineering's Salary Expectations
With such a large range of possibilities for employment, engineers as a whole have excellent salaries. There is some variance in different categories of engineering as to salary expectations. Engineers have some of the highest starting salaries of any bachelors degree offered at colleges and universities. In 2009, the average starting salaries for engineers with a bachelor's degree in the United States varied between $52,000 for a civil engineer and $83,000 at the top for petroleum (chemical engineer). Other engineering fields have varying starting salaries between these two amounts according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Outlook for Engineering in United States
Again, due to the huge variety of jobs available in the field of engineering, there is great variance in the job prospects of this field. For the most part, the field of engineering is expected to have a good job growth over the next decade with new jobs being created and also a need to fill current positions are engineers age and retire. Some fields like biomedical engineering could see job growth over 20 percent and 18 percent for petroleum engineers according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. It is important for engineers in all fields to keep up on their certifications and degrees, so if layoffs occurp; they are prepared with the latest skills in their field to find a new job quickly.
Begin the next chapter of your life with a management Ph.D. from Walden University. Using an interdisciplinary approach to the study of management, this program allows you to conduct self-directed, practical research on the issues that matter most to you. So whether you are preparing to share your expertise as an educator, a consultant, or an author, Walden's management Ph.D. will give you the credentials you need to reach your lifelong goals.
Conduct specialized research in an area of interest to you while you study ways to facilitate positive social change. Help enhance your capabilities as a researcher, scholar, manager, or consultant. Study the theories, concepts, and techniques that provide the foundation for sound management decision-making. Study topics such as leadership and information systems. The program offers you three ways to learn:
Course-Based format
This option is a structured program of study comprising online courses and residencies. As a student, you will work with a faculty mentor and follow a specific plan for completion of your degree. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with peers and faculty through online discussions and face-to-face residencies.
Self-Directed format
This option allows you to study independently while working with a faculty mentor to complete scholarly papers and study topics that apply to your interests. You will pursue faculty-guided independent research through Walden's signature Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs) and face-to-face residencies, in order to demonstrate academic mastery of each subject.
Mixed-Model format (formerly Hybrid format)
This option combines online courses, face-to-face residencies, and KAMs to provide a flexible program of study. You will have the opportunity to work closely with a faculty mentor; study and conduct research on topics that interest you; and learn from faculty members through individual courses.
Broadview University
Helping students achieve career and life goals
Colorado Technical University
Step up to your dreams!
Not sure which school to choose?
We can help.









