What is Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineering is a professional engineering discipline that deals with the study and application of electricity.There is often confusion between Electrical Engineers and Electronics Engineers.Electrical Engineers are typically concerned with using electricity to transmit energy and deal with large-scale electrical systems.They develop, design, test and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment to include lighting and wiring in buildings, electronic motors, aircraft carriers, automobiles and navigation systems.The main focus for Electrical Engineers is on the generation and supply of power whereas Electronics Engineers are concerned with using electricity to control signal processing and transmit information with small-scale electronic systems.

Electrical engineering is a profession that uses science, technology, and problem-solving skills to design, construct, and maintain electrical equipment and products.It is known that starting salaries in engineering are significantly higher than those of college graduates in other fields.According to the 2004 U.S. Department of Labor, salaries ranged from $65,707 to $78,978, depending on the field of engineering specialization and geographic location.

Electrical Engineering Curriculum

It is critical to know that almost all entry-level electrical engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree.Electrical engineering graduates typically obtain a Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Applied Science or Bachelor of Technology degree depending on the school.Electrical engineering curriculum consists of computer science, algebra, calculus, physics, biology, chemistry and electrical engineering related coursework.Electrical engineering covers a wide range of sub-disciplines including power systems, control systems, electronics, microelectronics, computers, instrumentation, signal processing and telecommunications.Students typically choose one or two sub-disciplines to specialize in throughout college.Although some Electrical Engineers focus on one discipline, many of them work with a combination of them.

Obtaining a graduate level degree in engineering is essential for a faculty, research development or management career.In addition to education requirements, several years of practical experience is encouraged and often times mandatory to be promoted to a management position.Regardless of your job ranking and experience, continuing education is important for those wishing to stay ahead of the evolving technology.

Careers in Electrical Engineering

Obtaining a degree in electrical engineering prepares you for a wide array of careers in multiple industries to include aerospace, communications, medical, electronics, instrumentation, automotive, integrated circuits, automation, computer systems and medical.Job responsibilities as an Electrical Engineer include design, development and implementation of products or systems, as well as research to create new ideas.Electrical engineering may also serve as a starting point for careers in many other diverse fields, ranging from business, law, medicine and politics.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Electrical Engineers are expected to see average employment growth through 2014.Out of the total engineering population, 156,000 or 10.8% were registered as Electrical Engineers.Employment on a local level is often influenced by the same national economic conditions that affect engineers.Although there has been an increase in competition internationally, a strong demand for electrical devices such as giant electric power generators or wireless phone transmitters should boost growth in the United States.

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