Engineering technology is, in essence, the practical application of engineering principles. This is a cutting-edge field that places emphasis on hands-on experience and applied learning, preparing graduates to make an immediate impact in a variety of industries.
If you choose to pursue your Master’s in Engineering Technology, you’ll find yourself working in industries like engineering, mechanical engineering technology, or electrical engineering technology, and similar areas within the engineering world.
Professional Options: What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Engineering Technology?
A Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) is designed to equip graduates with crucial skills in technology and engineering and pave the way for a wide range of career opportunities.
This degree reinforces technical expertise while growing a student’s problem solving skills and leadership qualities, making it a versatile asset to have in many industries.
Let’s dig into some career options this master’s degree can offer you:
- Technology Project Manager: Specializing in overseeing technology based initiatives these professionals ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and meet the desired quality standards. These PMs need a very good understanding of both engineering principles and management techniques.
- Systems Engineer: The systems engineer role centers around designing, implementing, and maintaining various technical systems. Their work ranges from computer networks to large scale machinery, and a deep understanding of engineering technology is vital for this role.
- Automation Engineer: They design and troubleshoot automated systems used in manufacturing and other industries. Mastery of mechatronics and electronic systems forms the foundation of their work.
- Quality Assurance Engineer: These professionals ensure that products or services meet the established standards of quality including reliability, usability and performance. They need to be detail oriented and systematic.
- R&D Engineer: Working in Research & Development these engineers contribute to creating new products or enhancing existing ones. This requires creativity complemented by a sound understanding of engineering principles.
- Data Analyst in Engineering Fields: Analysts interpret complex data related to engineering projects helping inform decision making processes. The data analysis component of the MSET program prepares graduates for this role.
- Engineering Technology Educator: With an MSET degree you could also teach the next generation of aspiring engineers at institutions. This role blends knowledge of engineering with a passion for education.
Each career path offers its unique challenges and rewards but they all share a common thread – the use of technology and engineering principles to solve problems, innovate and lead.
Steps to Become a Professional in Engineering Technology
Choose the Right Undergraduate Program
Your journey begins with getting a relevant engineering bachelor’s degree. In an industry like engineering technology, where the focus lies on the practical application of engineering principles, choosing an undergraduate program that provides a solid foundation in core subjects is key.
Gain Work Experience
After acquiring some theoretical knowledge it’s time to get hands on. Experience is as critical as formal education in the field of engineering technology. Whether you’re assisting engineers, conducting research, or providing technical support, practical experience is invaluable in preparing you for the challenges ahead.
Decide on a Specialization
In the evolving landscape of engineering technology specialization is no longer optional, but rather an essential pillar of career advancement. Fields such as industrial engineering, mechanical engineering technology or electrical engineering technology are common paths many choose to follow.
Choose the Right Graduate Program
You can further boost your career by going after a master’s degree in engineering technology. Look for programs like the Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) which offers a comprehensive curriculum covering critical technologies in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electronic systems and mechatronics. Graduate assistantships and flexible options like the “4+1 Fast Track” which lets you wrap up your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 5 years, are worth considering.
Complete Required Courses and Projects
The MSET program requires you to successfully complete coursework and projects relevant to your focus area. Whether you’re choosing a thesis path which demands 11 credits of research hours or opting for non thesis with 5 credits of project hours, mastering these tasks will help shape your professional competence.
Obtain Relevant Certifications
As the “finishing touch” to your academic journey acquiring professional certifications will further improve your career prospects. Certifications not only validate your expertise but also convey your commitment to professional development to potential employers.
Online Engineering Technology Degree Programs
Engineering technology degree programs such as the Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET), offer an innovative approach to education. You can decide between fully online and hybrid formats.
The fully online option delivers convenience and flexibility letting you balance your studies with other commitments. On the other hand, hybrid courses give you a blend of online and in person classes bridging the gap between traditional and digital learning.
The potential benefits of earning an engineering technology degree online are too much to count. Everything from time flexibility to lower costs at some institutions come into the picture.
For undergraduate students in certain STEM majors there’s also a Fast Track option to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s in engineering degrees in five years. Stacked courses allow undergraduates to take graduate level courses for credit toward both degrees, which can also be done online in some colleges and universities.
At the end of the day an online engineering technology degree not only provides an academically rigorous learning experience but also equips students with valuable practical skills attractive to employers in the engineering field.
Don’t forget to double check that you’re enrolling in an ABET accredited engineering program, to ensure your degree is recognized and valid with future employers in the industry.
Why Become a Professional in Engineering Technology?
Among the many different reasons to become a professional in Engineering Technology the practicality and innovation present within engineering says it all.
This discipline gives you an opportunity to dive into the practical application of engineering principles letting you directly affect and enhance the world around you. You also get to work in fields like industrial engineering, mechanical engineering technology and electrical engineering technology.
The rise in technology has also brought about a projected growth of 7% in the employment of engineering technologists and technicians over the next decade. This growth guarantees a certain level of job security and upward mobility, giving professionals an exciting and stable career trajectory. A Bachelor’s degree does this even more so, and a Master’s degree in Engineering Technology can open even larger doors to respectable positions with great salaries.
So why become an Engineering Technology professional? It’s simple. To reap the benefits of job satisfaction, financial rewards and continuous learning in a thriving industry while making significant contributions to society. If this sounds good to you, why not give it a shot?
Where Do Professionals in Engineering Technology Work?
- Manufacturing Industries: A vast majority of professionals with a Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) degree find their niche in the manufacturing sector. They often use practical applications of engineering principles to manage and improve production processes. Their roles may include designing, testing and implementing efficient manufacturing systems or equipment.
- Renewable Energy Sector: This booming industry is another common area where graduates carve out their careers. They might work on designing and improving systems for the generation and distribution of renewable energy such as solar panels or wind turbines.
- Research and Development: Some MSET degree holders choose to contribute to the field by delving into research and development. They are involved in creating innovative technologies or improving existing ones. These professionals generally have strong analytical skills and a passion for pushing technological boundaries.
- Government Organizations: Engineering technologists with master’s degrees might also find opportunities in various government bodies where they might oversee the application and maintenance of technology in public services. This could range from infrastructure projects to environmental conservation efforts.
- Consultancy Firms: In the fast paced world of engineering technology many companies rely on the expertise of consulting firms. Professionals in this field work as consultants advising organizations on how to best apply and manage technology in their operations. They help identify areas for improvement, offer solutions and sometimes oversee the implementation of those solutions.
Salary Prospects in Engineering Technology
Median Salary
Engineering technology is a lucrative field with a very promising salary range. Professionals holding a Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) can anticipate a median base salary of around $80,000 annually based on Payscale data. This is dependent on factors such as their specific role, level of experience and the organization they are employed by.
Highest Salary
The earning potential in this field can be substantially higher depending on the specific job title you hold. Electrical Engineers, for instance, can earn between $57,000 and $125,000, while Manufacturing Engineering Managers can rake in anywhere from $73,000 to $117,000, according to Payscale. It’s clear that further specialization within the field can lead to increased financial reward.
Highest Paying States
Location of employment can dramatically affect your income. States such as California, Texas and New York, typically known for their thriving tech and engineering industries, often offer salaries that exceed the national average for Engineering Technology roles. It can be beneficial for job seekers to consider these high paying locations when planning their careers in the Engineering Technology field.
Career and Job Growth in Engineering Technology
Engineering technology presents numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. As of now it’s a promising field with a projected growth rate of around 7% over the next decade according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This surge can be attributed to the increasing demand for professionals who are skilled in practical application of engineering principles, and who can effectively assist engineers, conduct research and provide technical support.
Therefore, whether you specialize in industrial, mechanical, or electrical engineering technology you can likely expect a thriving job market in the future as demand grows.
Master’s Degrees in Engineering Technology
Master of Science in Engineering Technology
The Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) is a comprehensive program that typically spans three semesters totaling 30 credit hours. An MSET focuses on vital technologies such as manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electronic systems and mechatronics.
Students can choose between a thesis or non thesis option with the former requiring 11 research hours and the latter requiring 5 project hours. Degree plans are flexible with the ability to complete both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years through the 4+1 Fast Track, catering to specific STEM majors.
Master of Engineering in Engineering Technology
While both an MSET and a Master of Engineering in Engineering Technology emphasize the practical application of engineering principles they differ significantly in focus. The Master of Engineering tends to concentrate on management and leadership skills critical to lead teams and oversee projects. Coursework involves leadership, data analysis, materials technology and embedded systems. Some universities give you the chance to gain dual credits for both degrees simultaneously. These “stacked courses” are typically available for undergraduates presenting a unique opportunity for ambitious learners to accelerate their academic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Career in Engineering Technology
What degree do I need to become a professional in engineering technology?
To become a professional in engineering technology the most common educational requirement is a bachelor’s degree. For those opting for more research oriented career paths a Master of Science in Engineering Technology (MSET) can offer a significant advantage as well. This typically is a 30 credit hour program that can be completed in as few as three semesters and covers critical technologies in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electronic systems and mechatronics.
What do professionals in engineering technology do?
Professionals in engineering technology generally focus on the application of engineering principles. Job duties might include assisting engineers, conducting research, providing technical support and working in fields like industrial engineering, mechanical engineering technology, or electrical engineering technology.
How long does it take to become a professional in engineering technology?
The timeline to become a professional in this field depends on the level of education pursued. An associate’s degree typically takes two years while a bachelor’s four. The MSET program, on the other hand, can be completed in three semesters. Undergraduate students in certain STEM majors have an option to complete both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 5 years through a 4+1 Fast Track program.
How much do professionals in engineering technology make?
Salaries for professionals in this field vary significantly based on specialization and experience. As of May 2021 the median annual wage for professionals with a Master of Science in Engineering Technology was about $80,000. For those just beginning their careers salaries can range from $57,000 to $125,000, according to Payscale.
What skills do I need to be a professional in engineering technology?
To thrive in this field you’ll need skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork, technical proficiency and a solid understanding of engineering principles. Specialized knowledge in areas like manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electronic systems and mechatronics, depending on your specific field, will also be beneficial.
Are there internship opportunities in engineering technology?
Yes, plenty of companies offer internships in engineering technology to help students gain practical experience. Some universities also offer graduate assistantships with stipends and tuition coverage giving students an excellent opportunity to perform research or project work while gaining industry relevant experience. Such opportunities can significantly enhance employability upon graduation.