Undergraduate degree programs in engineering
technology come in more specific concentrations, such as electrical
engineering, fire technology or construction engineering. Structured
degree programs give students a solid foundation of the techniques and
principles of each field and prepare them for related careers.
Bachelor's degree programs in a few of the most popular concentrations
offered online are profiled in the article below.
A Bachelor of Science in Electrical
Engineering Technology
program teaches students to use mathematics, science, technology and
problem-solving skills in the design, development and maintenance of
electronic products and services. Electrical engineers are responsible
for conducting tests, quality control, inspecting products, collecting
data and helping with product design. Some engineers specialize in a
particular field of engineering, such as mechanical, civil, aeronautic,
electric, environmental or industrial. While employment is possible
without a degree, employers overwhelmingly prefer candidates with an
associate's or bachelor's degree.
Students generally dedicate four years to completing a bachelor's
degree program. For online instruction, students need a computer with
Internet connectivity. Instructors teach with downloadable lectures and
documents. Enrollees may use a drop box for assignments and access study
notes online. Communication occurs through course management systems,
e-mail, live chat and phone.
List of Common Courses in Electrical Engineering Technology
Along with general education requirements, students take beginning
and advanced courses in areas, such as circuits and microprocessors,
specifically designed for the electrical engineering technology major.
Courses give students practical, hands-on experience and prepare them
for employment after graduation or further education.
Basics of Computer Circuits Course
This computer circuitry basics course acts as a foundation for work
in electrical engineering technology. Students study and analyze the
physical make up and operation of simple and complex circuit systems.
Basics of Programming and Java Course
Students get introduced to various programming methods, such as
command-line-oriented UNIX, Linux and Eclipse IDE. Students also study
the programming system, Java, and complex programming methods.
Introduction to Calculus Course
Instructors teach about the mathematic principles of derivatives,
parts and substitution, area under the curve, derivative tests, limits,
concavity and integration. An advanced calculus course typically follows
this one.
Career Info
In 2008, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that 33%
of engineering technicians worked in electrical and electronic
engineering (
www.bls.gov). The BLS also listed the median annual
salary for electrical and electronic engineering technicians in May 2009
as $54,820. Job opportunities were thought to be best for engineering
technicians who hold an associate's degree or higher in engineering
technology.
Online Bachelor of Science in Fire Safety Engineering Technology Overview
Individuals interested in becoming firefighters, fire inspectors or
other fire prevention positions may be interested in earning a Bachelor
of Science in Fire Safety Engineering Technology. Such a program
educates students in the prevention, containment and extinguishing of
fires. Other training areas include response to medical emergencies and
traffic accidents, as well as the collection and disposal of hazardous
materials. Some programs require applicants to hold an associate's
degree in fire protection prior to enrollment.
Within four years, students can complete the curriculum for fire
safety engineering technology. Online students rely on computers with
Internet access. Instructors use traditional texts along with modern
teaching technologies, such as web chats, online presentations and
course management systems. Students and instructors communicate via
e-mail. Some programs may require students to participate in live weekly
sessions using a virtual classroom meeting software, such as Wimba.
List of Common Courses in Fire Safety Engineering Technology
Students may have the option to choose a concentration, such as fire
administration or fire protection engineering. All majors learn fire
prevention and emergency services techniques, in addition to taking
general education courses.
Basics of Fire Behavior Course
Students learn basic terminology and concepts applicable to the
physical and chemical properties of fire and hazardous materials. They
look at the dynamics of fire from a fire prevention and safety
standpoint.
Basics of Modern Fire Prevention Systems Course
This course covers fire detection, fire prevention, containment,
control systems and extinguishment methods. Among other things, students
examine automatic sprinkler systems, dry chemical, fire alarm systems,
standpipes and foam.
Basics of Hazardous Materials Course
Instructors educate students about the transportation, storage and
safe handling of hazardous materials. Topics of special interest include
the importance of emergency preparedness and proper response in a
hazardous material incident.
Career Info
In addition to formal education, aspiring firefighters must pass
written and physical examinations. While employment is possible with a
high school diploma or associate's degree, more and more working
firefighters are choosing to obtain a bachelor's degree. In 2008, the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that local government employed
91% of firefighters and that a 19% growth in employment was expected
between 2008 and 2018. Firefighters were reported to have earned a
median annual wage of $45,050 in May 2009.
Online Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering Technology Overview
Construction engineers are responsible for and intricately involved
in the construction of commercial buildings, residential and industrial
structures, bridges, roads, schools and hospitals. They oversee the
daily operations on-site, such as zoning and permit issues, hiring of
contractors, crew scheduling and budgeting. Holding a Bachelor of
Science in Construction Engineering is highly preferable and usually a
requirement for employment in mid-level management, upper-level
management and supervisory positions.
To complete a 4-year online or hybrid program, students use an
Internet-connected computer. Students may participate in onsite
construction visits and observation, in addition to completing online
courses. Some programs require certain courses be taken on-campus to
fulfill a residence requirement. A research project may be part of the
curriculum.
List of Common Courses in Construction Engineering Technology
Courses prepare graduates to serve a multi-functional purpose on
construction sites, including coordinating, supervising and completing a
project from conception to completion. Enrollees also partake in core
general courses and electives.
Basics of Construction Methods and Materials Course
Students get a thorough understanding of basic construction methods
and materials, such as wood, masonry, glass, metal and concrete. Special
topics of interest related to construction methods include foundation
formation, framing, window installation, cladding, door installation and
roofing.
Basics of Plans and Specifications Course
This course covers reading architectural drawings, interpreting
plans, deciphering architectural symbols and notes, coordinating and
referencing between multiple drawings, construction techniques and legal
factors. Students also study the creation of specifications and how to
incorporate material properties.
Basics of Mechanical and Electrical Systems Course
The class looks at mechanical and electrical systems from a design
and construction standpoint. Students learn about energy conservation,
the HVAC system, fire protection, plumbing, lighting, information
systems and electrical distributions.
Career Info
As construction methods and technologies becoming increasingly more
complex, there is a need for well-educated workers with a bachelor's or
master's degree. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov)
stated that in 2008, 61% of construction managers were self-employed
and employment was expected to rise 17% through 2018. The BLS placed the
median average wage for construction managers to be at $82,330 in May
2009.
No comments:
Post a Comment