This degree program provides students with knowledge in relevant fields such as digital image processing, control systems, communications, and computer vision.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electrical and Electronics Engineers, on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm (visited March 24, 2022).
The time it takes to earn your Bachelor's degree online will depend on how many college credits you already have and how many classes you take each semester. An Electrical Engineering Bachelor's degree is considered a four-year program, so if you a full class load you can expect to graduate in that time. If you take half as many classes it will take you approximately eight years, and if you already have an associate's degree you might graduate after two years of full-time attendance.
While this may seem like a moot point, it is a valid question. Degree titles can vary from school to school, so check the curriculum of the programs in each school you are considering, making sure the major has the coursework you desire. For example, if you plan to specialize in electrical engineering technology, a degree titled Electrical Engineer might be as good as a specialized degree title if the same courses on technology are available.
Some schools focus on enrolling students but don't offer enough support for them to graduate in a timely manner. Check the school website for graduation rates; if you can't find them don't hesitate to contact the school and inquire or check online. A lower four-year graduation rate may be a sign of inadequate professors, an unrealistic curriculum, or a similar issue that may hinder your education.
Look on the school website for graduation rates and employment statistics; this page should include the college job placement assistance information. A school more focused on enrollment than on success might be lacking this information; a college dedicated to their students will have partnerships with businesses and organizations within the field that offer placement upon graduation.
Some schools have partnerships with major businesses that may include an offer of employment after a successful internship, so a bit of detective work may mean you won't even have to apply for a job after you graduate.
National rankings may come into play if you're entering a competitive occupation within the field of electrical engineering. If you're not sure about the ranking and reputation of your school of choice, ask some engineers in the field you plan to enter; most will be happy to give their opinion on the school program. You can also look for a social media or alumni page for the school program to gauge how well received the program is within the field.
While all schools with ABET accreditation are accepted for state licensure, a degree from a less respected school may mean your initial salary offer is lower than that offered to a graduate of a highly rated school and program. A lower initial salary means you may have slower advancement in your career. Choosing a higher rated school that has higher tuition may pay for itself within the first year or two after graduation, so do your research before you enroll.
Your most important step before enrollment is to verify the schools on your short list are fully accredited. Look for regional accreditation information on the school website and verify the school's credential with the accrediting organization. Accreditation is vital to both financial aid and future employment, and in addition to regional or national accreditation, the program you choose should be accredited by ABET. ABET accreditation of your degree program is a requirement for licensure in most states and shows your program of choice will be respected in the field.
