Study Electromechanical Engineering: Degrees at a Glance
Electromechanical engineering combines electrical technology with mechanical technology. Students of these degree programs will learn about installation, maintenance, and repair of electromechanical systems. You'll also be educated on many different circuitry and instrumentation apparatus.
Degree programs in electromechanical engineering prepare you for careers as technicians and engineers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts very little growth in these areas from 2010 to 2020. This is partly because the industries that hire such professionals are declining. However, because electromechanical degree programs teach a general technology education, the broad knowledge of electromechanical engineering students will help continue the demand for their work.
| Associate's | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Individuals who wish to begin entry-level positions as electromechanical technicians or intend to transfer to a four-year program | Those who intend to enter the field of electromechanical engineering |
| Common career paths (with approx. median salary)* | - Electrical and electronic engineering technicians ($57,000)* - Electromechanical technicians ($53,000)* | - Electrical and electronics engineers ($89,000)* |
| Time to completion | 2 years, full-time | 4 years, full-time |
| Common graduation requirements | - General education courses | - Liberal arts classes - Core courses - Approved electives |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma of GED - Appropriate GPA | - High school diploma, GED or associate's degree in a comparable major |
| Online availability | Some online programs are available | Partial online programs are available |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2011 figures).
Associate's Degree in Electromechanical Engineering
The associate's degree program in electromechanical engineering gives you the background you need to enter the workforce in an entry-level position. You'll be taught a variety of skills that can be utilized in many different industries, including manufacturing and power plants. Electromechanical engineers are typically needed in industries that have automated controls, as they repair and maintain these processes. A thorough educational training will give you the breadth you need to benefit your future employer.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A broad and general education prepares you for employment in many different industries
- An associate's degree is all you need to break into this field
- On-campus laboratories give you hands-on practice
Cons
- Employment in the field is seeing little or no change through 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Manual dexterity is highly important, because you'll be handling small pieces of circuitry and electronic parts
Courses and Requirements
You'll be required to take general education courses, such as math, English, and science. Speech courses will help teach you to communicate well, which is important in any job. You'll then take core courses in electromechanical engineering. Your course load may deal with the following concepts:
- Hydraulics and pneumatics
- Technical writing
- Motors and controls
- Total quality management
- Analog circuits and devices
- Electrical machinery
Online Degree Options
There are online associate's degree programs available in comparable disciplines, such as engineering technology. The coursework is similar to that which is required in an on-campus program. You can expect to take both general education courses and major courses. These programs are ideal for working professionals or stay-at-home parents.
Stand Out With This Degree
Keeping on top of new developments in your field is the best way to stand out with this degree. Some associate's degree programs offer emphases and concentrations on advancements such as robotics. The field of electromechanics is always changing, and it is vital that you constantly find ways to make things more efficient and helpful. Problem solving and reasoning skills are also important to be developed, because you'll likely be handling issues that arise with the circuitry systems.
Bachelor's Degree in Electromechanical Engineering
A bachelor's degree program in electromechanical engineering prepares you for employment in the engineering industry. You'll learn to work with computer networks, analog and digital electronics, power generation, transmission, and instrumentation, among other things. The colleges and universities that offer these programs give you access to their laboratories for hands-on learn experiences.
While the job outlook isn't favorable, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , engineering services firms can expect to see the best employment increases. This is largely a result of individual companies cutting the direct employment of contracting engineers. Also, any knowledge of emerging technologies can help improve your employment potential.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Hands-on learning facilitates a better understanding of abstract concepts
- A bachelor's degree is required to work as an engineer
- A capstone project allows you to research and work on an area of your choosing
Cons
- Job growth is not favorable from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- A master's degree is required if you intend to work in research and development
- You must continuously be learning and applying new technologies
Courses and Requirements
As with all bachelors' degree programs, students are required to take general education courses, such as science, math, English, and history. Electives must be approved by your advisor to ensure that they fit in with your curriculum. Coursework typically comprises the areas of robotics, control systems, digital circuits, and engineering mechanics. You can expect to take classes on subjects such as these:
- Engineering thermodynamics
- Fluid power
- Mechanics of solids
- Electromechanical energy systems
- Dynamic systems
- Microprocessor systems
Online Degree Options
Some colleges and universities offer online degree programs in comparable subjects to electromechanical engineering. These bachelor's degree programs offer the same coursework. However, you may be required to travel to campus for the laboratory courses. This way, you can complete most classes from home and schedule the on-campus classes at a time that works best for you.
Stand Out With This Degree
While job prospects aren't great through 2020, the job growth that is predicted to happen will occur as a result of an engineer's ability to apply emerging technologies to the job. Thus, is it imperative to stay abreast of new developments and constantly keep learning and continuing your education. Also, because companies are dependent on new technologies, there is expected to be a demand for research and development engineers to come up with these new processes.
