Are you curious about the driving forces behind machinery and infrastructure? Utilize a degree in electrical engineering to learn about power generation, digital interfacing, and much more so that you can flourish in the engineering industry.
What type of engineering is right for you?
While both play a significant role in mathematical and creative problem-solving as well as communication and leadership skills, electrical engineers focus on power generation - such as electricity, mechanical engineers focus on - getting physical parts, motors, and components to behave or act in a desired manner, and computer science engineers focus on the programmable components that make the systems run.
At PLNU, our electrical engineering program focuses on two goals:
- Giving you experience in analog and digital electronics, computer interfacing, and even mobile robotics
- Helping to prepare you for careers in fields like solar technology, aerospace, satellite or cellular communications, nuclear power, and many more
Job outlook for electrical engineering careers
Employment in careers related to a degree in computer science engineering is projected to remain steady yet still competitive. For computer engineers, overall employment is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). However, for software developers (one of the careers pursued by graduates of the PLNU electrical engineering program), employment is projected to grow 22% from 2019 to 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What can you do with an electrical engineering degree?
Many PLNU graduates have gone on to work in careers in academia, aerospace, computer technology, nuclear power, quantum information science, research, satellite or cellular communications, semiconductors, and solar technology (just to name a few). All are equipped with thorough knowledge and tools for their roles within these industries.
Some of the positions PLNU graduates currently hold:
Electrical Engineer
2020 Median annual salary: $103,390
Electrical engineers create, develop, and test electrical equipment. These engineers work in a wide range of equipment and systems such as automobiles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, communications systems, or power generation equipment.
Necessary skills and attributes:
- Creativity to design new ways to use electrical power to develop or improve products
- Performing detailed calculations
- Directing the manufacture, installation, and testing of electrical equipment
- Investigating problems and recommending solutions
- Working with project managers on production efforts
Aerospace Engineer
2020 Median annual salary: $118,610
Aerospace engineers design primarily aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. In addition, they create and test prototypes to make sure that they function according to design. They often specialize in areas such as aerodynamic fluid flow; structural design; guidance, navigation, and control; instrumentation and communication; robotics; and propulsion and combustion.
Necessary skills and attributes:
- Leadership for the direction of design and manufacturing teams of aircraft and aerospace products
- Efficiency in analyzing numbers and costs for projects
- Attention to detail for evaluating designs and whether they meet engineering principles, customer requirements, and environmental regulations
Software Developer and Software Quality Assurance Analyst
2020 Median annual salary: $110,140
Software developers design and create computer applications or programs. Software developers also determine other requirements, such as security. They design the program and then work closely with programmers who write computer code. However, some developers write code themselves instead of giving instructions to programmers. Software quality assurance analysts and testers identify problems with applications or programs and report the defects.
Necessary attributes and skills:
- Programming and coding knowledge
- Understanding of how to create test plans, scenarios, and procedures for new software
- Creativity and ingenuity for model and diagram making
- An understanding of designing and developing software
Net Developer
2020 Median annual salary: $95,763
A net developer is responsible for producing code using .net languages. Net developers create applications from scratch, manage existing systems, and offer user support. A net developer's overall goal is to work with internal teams to design, develop, and maintain software. Net developers are employed by companies within differing industries.
Necessary attributes and skills:
- Knowledge of at least one of the .NET languages (e.g. C#, Visual Basic .NET, etc.)
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent troubleshooting and communication skills
- Able to work well in a team setting
- Creativity to design software prototypes
Let your ideas spark and make them a reality with a degree in electrical engineering
PLNU’s Engineering, B.S.E Electrical Engineering Concentration will set you up for success in the wide-ranging opportunities available post-graduation. Whether you pursue aerospace, computer technology, research, or an intersection of these and more, you will be well prepared with creativity and skills fostered on PLNU’s campus.
Apply to PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.
