Are you considering a career as an electronic engineer? Perhaps you're curious about how long it takes to get there. Becoming an electronic engineer is a challenging and rewarding profession, but it does require some dedication and hard work. In this blog post, we'll explore the time it takes to become an electronic engineer.
One of the main pain points of pursuing a career in engineering is the amount of time it takes to complete the necessary education and training. Many aspiring engineers are concerned about the time commitment required to become licensed and start practicing in their field. However, it's important to remember that the time investment can lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
To become an electronic engineer, you'll typically need to earn a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. This generally takes four years to complete. You may also need to complete an internship or work experience program to gain practical experience in the field. After graduating, you'll need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam before you can start working as an engineer. Once you've gained enough work experience, you can take the Professional Engineering (PE) exam to become licensed.
In summary, becoming an electronic engineer takes approximately four years to complete a bachelor's degree, plus additional time to complete an internship or work experience program. After graduation, you'll need to pass the FE exam and gain work experience before taking the PE exam to become licensed.
What to Expect in an Electronic Engineering Program
During your time in an electronic engineering program, you can expect to take courses in math, physics, and electrical engineering principles. You'll learn about circuits, electronics, and digital systems. You'll also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through labs and design projects. Many programs also offer opportunities for internships or co-op work experience, which can be helpful for networking and gaining real-world experience in the field.
My Personal Experience
As an electronic engineer myself, I can attest that the time investment is well worth it. While the coursework can be challenging, it's also fascinating and rewarding to learn about how electronics work and how they can be used to solve real-world problems. The practical experience gained through internships and work experience programs was also invaluable in preparing me for my career in the field.
Further Detail on Becoming Licensed
After earning your degree and passing the FE exam, you'll need to gain a certain amount of work experience before you can take the PE exam. The exact amount of experience required can vary depending on the state or country you're in, so it's important to check with your local licensing board for specific requirements. Once you've gained enough experience, you can take the PE exam to become licensed. This will allow you to sign off on engineering projects and take on more responsibility in your career.
How to Prepare for the FE Exam
The FE exam is a comprehensive exam that covers a range of topics in engineering. To prepare for the exam, it's important to review the exam specifications and study materials provided by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). You can also consider taking a review course or using study guides to help you prepare. It's important to start preparing well in advance of the exam date to ensure that you're fully prepared.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming an electronic engineer takes time and dedication, but it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. By earning a bachelor's degree, gaining practical experience, and becoming licensed, you can build a career in this exciting field. Whether you're just starting out or considering a career change, electronic engineering is a field with a lot of potential for growth and innovation.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take to become an electronic engineer?
A: It typically takes four years to earn a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field, plus additional time for internships or work experience programs.
Q: What exams do I need to pass to become licensed?
A: After graduating and gaining work experience, you'll need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineering (PE) exam to become licensed.
Q: What kind of work can I do as an electronic engineer?
A: Electronic engineers can work in a variety of industries, designing and testing electronic systems and devices. They may work in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace, or medical technology.
Q: How much can I expect to earn as an electronic engineer?
A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for electronics engineers was $107,540 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.
