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Where Can You Work with an Engineering Technology Degree?

By DeVry University

The information presented here is true and accurate as of the date of publication. DeVry’s programmatic offerings and their accreditations are subject to change. Please refer to the current academic catalog for details.

 

September 7, 2021
4 min read

Those who prefer a more hands-on experience may find that engineering technology jobs are more suited for them. But what’s the difference between engineering technology and engineering? There is an overlap between the two fields, with both careers using science and math to solve real-world problems.

However, many distinct differences set engineering and engineering technology apart. Engineering programs will generally incorporate higher-level math and theoretical science courses, while engineering technology programs prioritize hands-on laboratory skills such as working through project-based assignments using experimental design.

Difference Between Engineering Tech and Engineering Degrees

The differences between engineering and engineering technology degrees may be difficult to discern at first, but become much clearer when you examine the educational requirements for the two fields and the different kinds of jobs that graduates of these programs may consider.

Engineering programs focus more on theories and advanced concepts, typically involving the design of new products. An engineer’s job focuses more on problem solving and design and requires scientific and mathematical knowledge.

Engineers may work in research and development, create new products and processes, or work in projects related to process management. Those who graduate from engineering degree programs often consider pursuing graduate school to further hone their skills or narrow their focus.

Engineering technology programs tend to focus on the application and implementation of ideas and emphasize hands-on learning. After earning an associate degree, engineering technology graduates may pursue entry or mid-level employment opportunities. Those who’ve earned a higher-level credential such as a bachelor's degree may pursue more advanced roles.

Engineering Technology Skills

Engineering technologists must have extensive knowledge about the equipment and materials needed to design, create, operate and maintain technical products, and must be collaborative as they work alongside engineers to build or improve mechanical systems, equipment and processes. While working on these, they may handle project management, complete analyses, collect and review data, estimate project costs and suggest ways to improve productivity.

They will also need to develop a range of skills that are less technical but essential to being effective while working in the field. This includes being detail oriented and having good writing and communication skills.  

Career Outlook for Engineering Technology

According to the  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians held about 102,500 jobs in the United States in 2022. The largest employers of these professionals were engineering services, the federal government and semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturers.

The BLS projects about 9,900 job openings for electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians each year, on average, between 2022 and 2032.1 This growth is projected on a national level and local growth will vary by location. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their careers and not just entry level. 

What Industries Can I Work In?

Engineering technology graduates can prepare to pursue entry-level positions as technicians or technologists. Individuals who study two-year programs may be interested in pursuing roles as technicians and those who study four-year programs may be interested in pursuing roles as technologists. The BLS states that electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians typically need an associate degree to pursue a career in the field, but exact requirements may vary between employers. Different industries or sectors may also have specific requirements and may require advanced education or experience. 

According to the BLS, electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians work closely with electrical engineers and work primarily in manufacturing settings, engineering services, the federal government, research-and-development laboratories, and the utilities industry.

Various technical operations, computer engineering or supervisory roles for engineering technology graduates can be found in various industries,  including but not limited to:

    • Medical Technology and Healthcare Systems
    • Renewable Energy
    • Machine Learning and Design Techniques
    • Sustainable Power
    • Nanotechnology
    • Product Design

What Jobs Can I Pursue After Graduation?

Graduates can typically pursue engineering technology jobs in the four main branches of professional engineering: chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical. They can also look for opportunities in the smaller branches of the practice of engineering, such as aerospace engineering, agricultural engineering, biomedical engineering, computer engineering, or environmental, nano or vehicular engineering.

Here are examples of the types of jobs graduates of our Associate Degree in Engineering Technology can consider:

  • Electrical Engineering Technician
  • Field Service Technician
  • Engineering Technologist (General)

Graduates of our Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology may consider jobs like:

 

  • Electrical Engineering Technologist
  • Manufacturing Engineering Technologist
  • Engineering Technologist (General)

Interested in Engineering Technology?

When deciding on where to pursue an engineering technology degree, look for a higher education institution that is accredited. This will ensure that the program meets the quality standards for a particular profession, if accredited by an industry-related body, and that future employers know that the education you received meets the standards needed to succeed in the global workforce.

DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) https://www.hlcommission.org/,2 and both our Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology and our Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology are accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC) of ABET,  www.abet.org, a global mark of quality that is respected by employers and professional associations within the field.

At DeVry, our curriculum is designed with input from industry experts to strive to ensure that our students are learning the most up-to-date skills and technologies that many employers are looking for. 

Our faculty members are experienced professionals with extensive experience in their respective fields, and are dedicated to providing personalized guidance, mentorship and support to students throughout their academic journey. 

1Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineering-technicians.htm

2DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org. The University’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation.

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