Engineering degree curriculums prepare individuals to become developers, designers, and technicians in commercial and scientific field applications. Areas of study in engineering include traditional disciplines in Industrial Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering. Emerging industries offer lucrative opportunities with studies in Biotech Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering and Chemical Engineering.
A bachelors degree in engineering is required for most entry level jobs. Starting salaries for degrees are among the highest of all college graduates. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) in 2010, the bachelor degrees with highest starting salaries are:
· Petroleum Engineering - $86,200
· Chemical Engineering - $65,142
· Mining & Mineral Engineering - $64,552
· Computer Science - $61,205
· Computer Engineering - $60,879
· Electrical/Electronics & Communications Engineering - $59,074
· Mechanical Engineering - $58,392
· Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering - $57,734
· Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering - $57,231
· Information Sciences & Systems - $54,038
Computer Software Engineering Degrees
Computer software engineers develop, test, and implement software applications. Software engineers basically tell computers what to do. Software engineers design and develop many types of software applications including operating systems, business software applications, middleware, computer games, and more. Individuals with degrees in computer software engineering are in very high demand.
Electrical Engineering Degrees
Electrical engineers design, develop, and supervise electronic equipment. Computers, communication equipment, medical equipment, and circuitry are some of the areas where electrical engineers apply their knowledge. Job opportunities are very good for those seeking an electrical engineering degree.
Mechanical Engineering Degrees
A mechanical engineering degree offers a broad choice of career paths. Engineers in this discipline work on power-producing machines such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines and power using machines from robotics, industrial production equipment to refrigeration, and more. Careers opportunities are very good for mechanical engineering degree graduates.