Study Engineering in the US
International students who want to study engineering in the US will find that many opportunities exist. Engineering is a growing field with great career prospects both in the U.S. and overseas. Students who have a strong interest in math and science should consider this path of study and the many different specializations that it offers.
International students who want to study engineering will find that there are many degree programs throughout the United States. Ever wonder what is involved in engineering? According to The American Engineers' Council for Professional Development, engineering is a unique and creative way of using science and math to design and operate a variety of different structures, machines, and processes. Engineering is becoming a widely popular area of study because of the job opportunities and compensation that comes along with it. It is a challenging yet rewarding subject that incorporates mathematics, sciences, and practical knowledge in order to design, build, and problem solve.
Entrance requirements for engineering programs vary college by college, but there are some commonalities. Most schools require that students take high level math and science courses as part of their general education requirements. In addition, many universities either require or offer a range of classes that allow potential engineering students to explore the different specializations within the field. Some colleges even require that students pass proficiency tests in math and physics before entering their programs since these skills are essential to becoming a successful engineer. For international students who want to study engineering in the U.S., they should do their research and check out their school's website to review entrance requirements and degrees available.
Choosing your School
While most universities offer engineering programs, departments typically offer specializations within the field. If you are an international student evaluating a career in engineering, be sure to speak with students and faculty to see what strengths are available at your select colleges. Some of the common types of engineering offered include industrial, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and civil. As engineering grows in popularity, more specific areas of specialization are being offered including nuclear engineering, architectural engineering, and audio engineering.
Although there are many engineering programs throughout the US, a few stand out among the rest. According to the U.S. News rankings, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, and University of California—Berkeley top the charts when it comes to undergraduate engineering programs. International students who want to study engineering in the US and want a top tier education should consider applying to these programs. There are also many other programs that offer high quality engineering degrees that should not be discounted as they may offer a specialization and other unique qualities on campus. National University has a college specifically dedicated to engineering programs offering a variety of programs from engineering technology, construction engineering, technology, to electrical and computer engineering. We recommend doing your research and deciding what factors are most important to your educational experience.
Career in Engineering
If you are considering a degree in engineering, you will soon find that there are many career opportunities for students who graduate with an engineering degree under their belt. Whether international students studied chemical, mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering, there is a high demand for their new gained skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the United States Department of Labor, engineers are some of the highest paying in the United States, and only require a bachelor's degree for an entry level position. Median salary was between $50,000 USD and $100,000 USD depending on area of specialization. The international job market for engineering is also promising, and emerging markets boast a high demand for engineers due to the major industrial and commercial expansion that they are undergoing. Regardless of what country you want to work in, you will need a good grasp on the language, and be able to use the technical terms necessary for engineers. Both career opportunities and salary can increase dramatically if students continue their education and pursue a graduate degree in engineering.
Engineering is a difficult path of study, and international students should be prepared to put in long hours studying and working on projects. Although it is more challenging than many other degree programs, studying engineering in the US can open up the door to many lucrative and rewarding career opportunities. If you enjoy problem solving, math, science, and more, studying engineering may be right up your alley.