West Virginia Automotive Engineering Schools

If you are ready to start your career in automotive engineering, there are two schools in West Virginia that can give you the education you need. One school has an Associate’s degree program; the other school offers Bachelor’s degree programs and Master’s degree programs. The average cost of tuition in West Virginia is $3,100 per semester.

The majority of automotive engineering jobs, both in West Virginia and in nearby states, require applicants to have at least a Bachelor’s degree in this field. A Bachelor’s degree is comprised of 120 credits, so it is well-equipped to give you a comprehensive education in this industry. Some of the classes you may be required to take include Materials for Automotive Applications, Vehicle Lightweight Design, and Alternate Fuel Systems.

If you want to carry on with your education beyond the undergraduate level, you can earn a Master’s degree or Ph.D. Respectively, these degrees require two and seven additional years of full-time study. Some of the courses you may have to take include Battery Systems & Control, Mechanical Vibrations, and Automotive Body Structures.

Every degree level requires a certain number of lab hours. These hours are invaluable—they give you hands-on experience with engineering tools, materials, and techniques.

For many people, it is important to choose a school that fits within their budget. This includes tuition rates and financial aid! The less-expensive school in West Virginia is Bridgemont Community & Technical College. Tuition is $148 per credit for residents and $354 per credit for non-residents. West Virginia University at Parkersburg is one of the more expensive options in West Virginia. Tuition is $155.50 per credit for residents and $410.50 per credit for non-residents.

As noted, financial aid often plays a role in people’s school choices. The West Virginia Golf Association is one of many West Virginia organizations that award engineering scholarships. They award the William C. Campbell Scholarship, among other grants.

If you want to work as a Professional Engineer in West Virginia, you must first pass the NCEES Principles & Practice of Engineering exam. You can then apply for licensure through the West Virginia State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. You may consider joining a professional organization like the West Virginia Society of Professional Engineers.

Salaries vary widely in West Virginia. However, O*Net reports that the average salary for a mechanical engineer is $76,100.

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