An online associate degree in engineering may provide individuals with detailed knowledge and training in the fields of engineering. In these two-year programs, students may learn how to examine the relationship between people and environments, minimize or prevent waste, and discover the basics of engineering. Popular areas of engineering concentrations may include aerospace, chemical, industrial, and biomedical.

Upon graduation, students may either seek entry-level employment or transfer their credits into a baccalaureate-level program. Associate’s degree graduates may find employment opportunities in research and development, government, manufacturing, and general engineering.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 9% (2010-2020)*

Program Concentrations

An associate-level engineering degree program may include a combination of general education courses, engineering-specific courses, and major-specific courses within the chosen area of concentration. Students may complete courses such as electrical circuits and networks, construction materials, and cost estimating. Possible areas of concentration for an engineering associate degree program may include the following:

• Civil
• Industrial
• Biomedical
• Mechanical
• Electrical
• Aerospace
• Chemical

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may find employment opportunities in general engineering, research and development, government, manufacturing, and laboratories. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as mechanical engineers are expected to increase 9% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Mechanical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer
• Sales Engineer

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete an online associate’s degree program in engineering may seek to transfer their credits and further their education by enrolling in a baccalaureate-level program. An engineering bachelor’s degree program may provide students additional training and skills on specific types of engineering. Employers of mechanical engineers may require individuals to hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and for those pursuing managerial roles a graduate degree may be preferred.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook