Engineering is one of the most lucrative professions on the globe. Since engineering is also a broad and diverse discipline, aspirants of this profession are usually spoilt for choice when it comes to the career path options they can pursue. For instance, mechanical engineering, civil, electronic, mechatronics, computer, robotic, and aeronautical engineering are just a few of the many options you can pursue.
Whichever you pick, the best part is that an engineering career can have numerous benefits. In addition to job satisfaction, the prestigious profession also guarantees you financial security, intellectual development, and a challenging work environment that will keep you up to speed with advancements in technology. Nonetheless, whether or not you enjoy these and more benefits will depend on one giant factor – the job you land on.
In most cases, a decent engineering job requires you to have a degree at the very least. The definition of a great job is somewhat relative but your qualifications will basically determine the kind of job you can land on. With this having been mentioned, how advanced should your engineering degree be for you to secure a great employment opportunity?
What You Should Look At
There are a plethora of engineering occupations to choose from. As an engineer, you have access to thousands of options and well-paying positions. When it comes to how advanced your degree should be, though, it is entirely dependent on the job path you intend to pursue. You must be aware of the precise technical discipline you wish to study.
Before offering you a job, different fields and employers will seek specific qualifications. This is why job seekers are advised to use a specialist engineering recruitment agency when seeking a job in this diverse field. This way, you can find the right job for you in terms of your qualifications, experience, and expertise. Even if your current position is just a stepping stone, you can hopefully find a more fulfilling engineering job position in due time. With this in mind, let's have a look at the various options that are accessible to you based on your qualifications.
1. An Associate’s Degree
As an engineer, this is the most basic certification you can have. With this degree, however, you won't be able to call yourself an engineer because you won't be involved in the innovative design work that engineers do. However, you can begin your career in engineering technology right now. You will now be referred to as an engineering technician or technologist, and you will work closely with engineers on tasks such as installation, maintenance, and repair of technological equipment. Although the pay is not as great as that of engineers, it is worthwhile because you only have to go to school for two years.
2. A Bachelor’s Degree
Do you aspire to be a true engineer? This is the basic level of qualification you require. It must, however, come from a recognized institution. You now have adequate knowledge and abilities to develop components, systems, and processes in the specific engineering branch you choose after completing your studies and earning this certification. With this degree, you can also apply for a professional engineering license, which will further boost your chances of securing a great job. You yet again have a variety of options to choose from.
3. Master’s Degree
A bachelor's degree will get you practically any work, but a master's degree will give you a greater chance at a better position with higher compensation. You must have finished and received a bachelor's degree to be eligible for this degree. In most circumstances, you can work while pursuing your master's degree. This is if you wish to expand your knowledge and abilities to better meet market demand.
There are also several opportunities that you won't be able to get with a bachelor's degree but can get with a master's degree. Therefore, if you want to increase your chances of landing a good job you need to think about getting a master's degree.
4. PhD
As an engineer, this is the highest level of qualification available. With this, you can get any job you want. However, it is primarily intended for professionals who aspire to teach in engineering universities or work only as researchers. Such a qualification will put you in multi-million-dollar organizations because they are the only ones who can afford you. Engineers with this level of qualification are well compensated and have the freedom to work wherever they want.
As with any other profession, engineering job offers get better as you advance with your degree. Those with highly advanced degrees earn better, but often lower than their experienced comrades. If you are an aspiring engineer, the above piece should shed some light on what you need to do to get the best engineering job in the employment market.
Leave Comment