The engineering industry in New England is in need of good computer engineers. If you want to get started in this industry, there are three schools in Maine that can help you reach that goal. One school offers a certificate in this industry. An Associate’s degree is offered at one school. You can earn a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or PhD at one school in the state.
Each type of engineering degree can help you meet different career goals. Earning a certificate can prepare you for assistant-level work in the field, while an Associate’s degree is meant to prepare you for Bachelor’s-level coursework in the field.
A certificate usually takes about one year to earn, as you have to earn 30 credits. The average Associate’s degree requires 60 credits, which should take you about two years. A Bachelor’s degree includes 120 credits, which you may be able to complete in four to five years. Some of the coursework involved at this level includes Assembly Language, Computer Architecture, and Operating Systems.
If you want to earn a Master’s degree, you need to complete 30 postgraduate credits. This generally takes about two years. A PhD includes a thesis, so the average degree length is seven years.
Tuition costs in Maine vary significantly between schools. However, the average cost of tuition is $13,700. Your costs may be less if you attend a two-year school, are a Maine resident, or earn scholarships and grants.
There are many different engineering scholarships you can apply for in Maine. If you are a dedicated, high-performing student, you may be able to earn a scholarship from the Maine Society of Professional Engineers. Another option, which is only open to University of Maine students, is the Pulp and Paper Foundation Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to students from a variety of different engineering specialties.
In order to start working as an engineer in Maine, you have to get your license from the State Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers. The first step is passing the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering exam, which can be taken in every April and October. Once you have successfully passed your exam, you can send in your application and receive your license.